Barrel Sample. This is a dense wine with big tannins and spice from the new wood, melded with rich black fruits and acidity. It is a step up for this property, showing the potential of its fine terroir.

Coming from the northwestern part of Saint-Emilion, not far from the border of Pomerol, the 2018 Château Corbin is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc that was brought up in 50% new French oak. This rockingly good Saint-Emilion has a perfumed nose of black raspberries, blackberries, toasted spice, dried flowers, and loamy earth. Much more refined and elegant now from bottle than barrel, it's medium to full-bodied and has some classic Saint-Emilion chalky minerality, quality tannins, and a great finish. This is well worth seeking out, and while it already offers pleasure, it's going to benefit from just 3-4 years of bottle age and drink brilliantly for 10-15 years.

The 2018 Corbin surpassed my expectations from barrel. It has an outgoing but attractive bouquet, presenting less of the dark chocolate compared to its showing from barrel but retaining that light mintiness. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, fresh and nimble, leading to a precise, quite mineral-driven finish. An excellent Corbin that should drink well over the next 12-15 years. Elegant.

Steeped cherry and plum flavors are infused with alder and anise notes, ending with a whiff of black tea. Stylish. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2025. 5,500 cases made, 300 cases imported.