Medium-pale ruby-red. The nose starts with a waft of sweet oak, 2 minutes later it’s gone, replaced by a forward and ripe mix of strawberry/raspberry against a developing, more tertiary background. Sweet and soft with a good intensity in the mid-palate, the slowly mouthwatering finish is not bad either. This is a medium-weight wine that’s relatively easy drinking and simple but very tasty – shows the friendly side of the vintage.

A complete contrast to the last wine. Only medium ruby colour, just the slightest trace of cherry at the rim – looks like a 1997. The nose is of raspberry and strawberry confiture and a little earth – not at all confected despite the description and with time develops a raisin note. Medium concentration, though good volume in the mouth and good acidity with relatively light and very smooth tannin. The finish builds well, first slightly cooked fruit then a little earth. Elegant and moreish. Exceptional value direct from the domaine – 11 Euro plus taxes.