In the same ballpark as the 2016, the 2015 Château Gracia is a blend of 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon raised all in new oak. It's another Rockstar effort from this estate that pairs sensational richness and depth with phenomenal elegance, purity and a weightlessness that's hard to believe. Cassis, toasty oak, damp earth, violets, and smoked herb nuances all flow to a full-bodied, layered, multi-dimensional Saint-Emilion that has incredible sex appeal, yet is just as complex, layered and nuanced. It's an incredible wine!

Blended of 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and aged in 100% new French oak barrels for 15 to 20 months, the deep garnet-purple colored 2015 Gracia rocks up with an audacious nose of crème de cassis, chocolate box, blueberry compote and plum preserves with touches of charcuterie, scorched earth and yeast extract. Full-bodied, rich and firm in the mouth, its power wears a compellingly plush frame with a lively backbone and an epically long, savory and spice-laced finish.

The 2015 Gracia is inky-black in color. The bouquet is very attractive with black cherries and boysenberry fruit, well defined and somehow reminding me of a Merlot from the southern hemisphere. The palate is medium-bodied with gentle grip on the entry, a fine bead of acidity, slightly chocolaty in style with black pepper toward the persistent finish. It lacks a little breeding but it should drink well for the next decade. Tasted blind at the Southwold 2015 Bordeaux tasting.