An unusual blend for the Médoc of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this wine comes from a Rothschild vineyard next door to its Château Clarke. The wine is balanced, richly perfumed and spicy with swathes of black-currant fruit and ripe tannins. Developing slowly, the wine needs some time. Drink from 2023.

The 2015 Château Malmaison has a straightforward, red cherry and strawberry-scented bouquet with cassis developing in the glass. It comes across as a little smudged compared to its peers. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent ripe tannin, crisp acidity and a pleasant salinity, the finish showing more pedigree than the aromatics at the moment. It should meliorate during élevage and evolve into a useful little Moulis.

Gentle-edged, with steeped plum and red currant fruit gliding over very light chalky tannins. Subtle tobacco and juniper hints chime in on the finish. Drink now through 2019.