2018 Chapelle de Potensac, Médoc

Blackberry, mushroom and earthy notes on the nose. It is full-bodied with elegant tannins and a savory, juicy texture in the mouth, leading to a flavorful finish. Lightly juicy. A tiny bit hollow in the middle palate now, but nicely done. Better after 2022, when it will have filled in.

91 points James Suckling

Second wines can often feel like an afterthought, but Chapelle de Potensac carries the pedigree of one of the Médoc’s most respected estates. Château Potensac, owned by the Delon family of Léoville Las Cases fame, has long been a benchmark for classic Left Bank structure at sensible prices. With Chapelle, the aim is approachability without losing that unmistakable Médoc character.

The 2018 vintage brought warmth and generosity across Bordeaux, and here it shows in a more open, fruit forward style while still holding onto structure. Merlot takes a stronger role alongside Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, grown on clay and gravel soils that give both plushness and backbone. Dark plum, blackcurrant and cherry sit at the core, with hints of cedar, dried herbs and a touch of cocoa. The tannins are softer and more accessible than the grand vin, but there is still enough grip to remind you where it comes from, finishing with a gentle earthy note.

This is built for relaxed but proper food. Think a slow braised beef cheek with herbs and root vegetables, or lamb koftas with cumin and coriander. It also works well with smoky flavours, grilled sausages, charred capsicum and eggplant with a drizzle of olive oil and sea salt.

Already drinking nicely with a short decant, it will continue to evolve over the next five to eight years, picking up more savoury complexity along the way.