CHATEAU PIBRAN 2018, Pauillac

Opened this for a special dinner and the 46% Merlot really rounds out the Cabernet, making it smooth right from the first sip. The violet notes are there but subtle, blending into a long, elegant finish that kept us talking.

Opened this with dinner and the violet aromatics really do come through on the nose—it's seductive from the first pour. The blend of Cab and Merlot feels perfectly balanced, smooth but with enough structure to stand up to a steak. I'd buy another bottle without hesitation.

The violet notes on the nose are exactly as described, very elegant. It paired beautifully with lamb chops but could use another year or two in the cellar to fully soften the tannins.