I loved the 2022 Chateau Joanin Becot, a juicy, lively, nicely balanced Castillon that has perfumed red fruits as well as the classic mineral and floral nuances of the region. It's medium-bodied, has integrated acidity, and a great finish. The blend is 80/20 Merlot and Cabernet Franc from the cooler, limestone Castillon region east of Saint-Emilion, and this beauty will drink well for 10-15 years if well stored. Readers could do much worse than a case of this in the cellar.

One of my favorites this year and surely a wine that punches above its weight, the 2022 Joanin Becot reveals a perfumed, vibrant bouquet of iris, lilac, dark berries, licorice and violet. Medium to full-bodied, supple and satiny, it's lively and juicy with a fresh core of fruit, bright acids and fleshy texture, concluding with a fresh, ethereal and mouthwatering finish. This blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc is a real success and worth hunting down.

A fresh, direct style, with light sanguine and cedar accents gently framing a core of red currant and bitter cherry coulis flavors. The sleek finish makes this approachable now. Delicious. Merlot and Cabernet Franc.