Guion 2019 Bourgueil "Deux Monts"

From 70-80 year-old vines in "Petits Monts" and "Grand Monts" towards the top of the slope above Benais, facing roughly south-west, clay over Turonien limestone (tuffeau, craie micacée). 18-month élevage; 40% in cuve inox, 20% in one new 400 liter barrel, 20% in one-year and 20% in two-year old barrels, assembled two months before bottling. This is the terroir giving the most elegant and age-worthy Bourgueils. The 2019 is certainly elegant and approachable on release, with pretty red and black fruit along with subtle vegetal and floral aromatics that intermingle seamlessly. There are hints of spice on the back end and a long persistent finish, with plenty of structure for long-term aging but a certain energy and tension that make it particularly enjoyable early on. That said, it will continue to evolve beautifully over the next 10-20 years so be sure to hold some back if you can.