Chateau de la Huste 2020

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "The 2020 de la Huste has a deep purple-black color, bursting from the glass with flamboyant notes of crushed blackberries, blueberry pie and ripe black raspberries, plus suggestions of violets, mocha and licorice. The medium to full-bodied palate is chock-full of juicy black and blue fruits, framed by ripe, rounded tannins and impressive freshness, finishing long and perfumed. A beautiful powerhouse!"

THE WINE CELLAR INSIDER: "Flowers, espresso, plums and licorice create the perfume. On the palate, the wine is plush, polished and vibrant with a juicy core of fresh, cherries, coffee, and dark chocolate in the juicy finish. Drink from 2023-2034."

JAMES SUCKLING: "Fresh dark cherries and plums to the nose with some fine spices and hibiscus. This is simple yet crunchy and sappy on the palate, showing some nice, immediate appeal. Concise and fruity. Drink now."

DECANTER: "Fairly subdued right now, this has broad shoulders and some touches of reduction on the nose. Good quality, great texture really feels deep and rich, with bitter black chocolate streaking through the black cherry compote. Reserved though, these are big tannins. Eric Boissenot consultant. Harvest September 12 to 20. A yield of 38hl/ha."

WINE SPECTATOR: "A fresh and unadorned style, this red offers a pure beam of damson plum and floral notes that are carried by fine, chalky minerality through the finish. Reveals a pretty tobacco echo. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2030. 9,000 cases made, 4,500 cases imported."