Decadent and rich red with plum and blueberry aromas. Hints of spices and walnut shell. Full body, round and silky tannins and a juicy finish. Drink in 2020 but already delicious.

Gigault's Cuvee Viva is a real overachiever in this vintage. Plump, flavorful and complex - especially in its peer group - the Cuvee Viva is a terrific, budget-friendly Bordeaux. Sweet red cherry, plum, tobacco, dried flowers and licorice add character and nuance throughout. Drink this 100% Merlot over the next handful of years.

The Gigault Cuvee Viva from the hands of Stephane Derenoncourt has an opulent, sensual bouquet with billowing crushed strawberry and Morello fruit - ostentatious at first although it finds more decorum as it mellow in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannin, a crisp line of acidity. I appreciate the substance here, a big mouthful of Merlot, but there is structure and grip here, with good density on the finish. Afford it 2-3 years in bottle and you will have a delicious Côtes de Blaye.

Fresh, with a racy edge, as a tangy mineral streak enlivens the core of red currant, plum and cherry fruit flavors. Light tobacco and singed vanilla notes score the finish. Shows good purity.