Another beautiful wine from the Garcin family, Clos l’Eglise, which had been a moribund estate for decades, leaped to the forefront in the late nineties where it has remained ever since. The dense ruby/purple-hued, medium-bodied 2011 possesses abundant notes of sweet black cherries, licorice and plums as well as impressive purity, texture and length. It should be at its peak in 2-3 years and last for 12-15. Usually, this is a blend of 80+% Merlot and the balance Cabernet Franc.

A fleshy, crowd-pleasing style, with Black Forest cake and roasted anise notes out front, followed by mouthfilling plum sauce, blackberry paste and fig flavors. Picks up a slightly chewy toast edge on the finish, but this will progress quickly thanks to the ripe fruit. Drink now through 2021. 1,250 cases made.

Dark and intense. Oak a touch intrusive but pure fruit behind. Firm, fresh and structured with a good long finish. Definite ageing potential. Drink 2018-2030. (16.5 points)