Château Dalem 2018

A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, the 2018 Dalem has a deep garnet-purple color and compelling notes of blackberry preserves, wild blueberries and ripe, juicy black plums, with hints of dark chocolate, licorice and black olives. The full-bodied palate (15% alcohol) appears bright and fresh with the lively black fruits framed by soft, velvety tannins, finishing long and savory. Nicely done!

An elegant nose of flowers, plums, red berries and cedar. It’s medium-bodied with silky texture. Shows balance and finesse, supported by polished tannins and a pretty drive. Lovely all around. Try after 2023.

Another successful Fronsac which is smooth and creamy through the mid palate with good fruits and rich roasted coffee bean notes alongside toasted oak, coffee and chocolate. It's definitely not taking its foot off the pedal in terms of extraction, but it is sexy and approachable and ready for pleasure, as the high alcohol helps wrap up the tannins. - Jane Anson

Beautiful cassis, violets, and orange blossom notes emerge from the 2018 Château Dalem. It has a certain modern style, delivering classy oak, yet it has good minerality on the palate, medium to full-bodied richness, ripe tannins, and a great finish. This ripe yet balanced, lively 2018 has lots to love and is going to keep for a decade.