Château Trianon, St Emilion Grand Cru 2018

Château Trianon has an incredibly interesting history. After its construction in the 17th Century, it was a personal favourite of King Louis XIV who is quoted as saying, "I built Versailles for my court, Marly for my friends and Trianon for myself." Always producing exceptional red wine (fit for a king!) in Bordeaux's storied right-bank appellation of St Emilion, Château Trianon has also recently gained organic status. Their 2018, one of St Emilion's best ever vintages, is a blend of 80% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Carmenere - the latter now rarely grown in Bordeaux and is what makes Château Trianon stand up above the rest. A full bodied and powerful red with an aromatic nose that offers ripe blackberries, blueberries, plum backed by liquorice and chocolate notes. The rich, flavourful palate is well structured with round and ripe tannins, freshness and a long finish. Drinking well now, but will continue to age beautifully over the next 10+ years.