Just 19hl/ha were picked after the hail and mildew, but Chateau Brown has done a great job with what it had. There's a slight bit of heat on the attack but the concentrated fruit and silky texture eats it up, with dark chocolate and liquorice notes coming in strong through the mid-palate. An exuberant, good quality wine with intensity and concentration, and just hugely seductive.

Blackcurrant, stewed-blackberry, thyme, bark and licorice aromas. It's full-bodied with firm, fine tannins and a flavorful finish. It really grows on the palate. Layered.

Sleek, pure and refined, with cassis, damson plum and cherry reduction flavors laced with subtle tar, graphite and mesquite notes. Flashes of anise and red tea on the fine-grained finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot.