Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 Balestard la Tonnelle bursts from the glass with opulent scents of stewed black plums, Black Forest cake and Indian spice, followed by notions of kirsch, cedar chest, cracked black pepper and eucalyptus with a touch of lavender. The medium to full-bodied palate is still wearing a lot of oak in the flavor profile and tannin texture at this stage, offering glimpses at an impressive array of black fruit preserves and exotic spices, finishing with great length. Forget it in the cellar for another 4-5 years and drink it over the next 15+ years.