LE GAY [POMEROL] 2015 750ML

94-96 The 2015 Le Gay comes from the 6.5-hectare Pomerol estate, of which 2.09 hectares are currently being restructured. It is a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc picked from 27 September until 8 October at one degree lower alcohol than Montviel; it has a fragrant bouquet with delineated red cherries, crushed strawberry and hints of vanilla from the 100% new oak. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, ripe and rounded in the mouth, very well balanced and very smooth. This just glides across the mouth and once that new oak has been absorbed, this will be a gorgeous Le Gay to behold. Do not overlook this Cru because it has been on a roll in recent years.

A tight and racy red with walnut skin, pecan nuts, chili and spice. Blackberry. Full body, round texture. Chewy. Very promising. Like the great Le Gays from the 1980s.

Jeb Dunnuck A more elegant, lightly textured effort than some top past vintages, the 2015 Le Gay comes from a tiny estate in Pomerol and is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc brought up all in new oak. It has terrific complexity in its darker fruits, tobacco leaf, violets, new leather and even meaty aromas and flavors. These carry to a full-bodied, perfectly balanced 2015 that has fine, fine tannin and a great finish. It will fill in with 3-4 years of cellaring and keep for two decades. Tasted once.

This sports some overt bay leaf and olive notes out front, followed by dark currant, fig and blackberry compote flavors. Slightly chunky through the finish, with brambly grip. A rather sauvage Pomerol that will be a gamble for the cellar, as this has picked up noticeable funk since the barrel tasting. Best from 2020 through 2030. 1,250 cases made.