Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Cambon la Pelouse is scented of cedar, tar and earth with a core of warm plums and cassis with mocha and lavender hints. The palate is full-bodied, firm and laden with fruit, supported by grainy tannins and finishing long.

Alluring tobacco and dark tea notes lead the way while a caressing set of cassis and black cherry purée flavors follow closely. Cedar echo on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2025.

The 2018 Cambon de Palouse shows signs of greenness on the nose, perhaps more so than when I tasted it from barrel. The palate is hard on the entry and quite austere, with a dry woody finish. I reckon the fruit will fade long before the rather aggressive tannins. Tasted twice.