2020 Ch Pavie Decesse Grand Cru Classé, St-Émilion

Balanced, sleek and poised, plenty of character, a real push and pull, it expands and contracts, the oak is well masked and there is a sense of energy. This is an enjoyable wine, easy to recommend, but I think this may be the first vintage where I have thought that its sibling Pavie is a clear step up. 80% new oak, 3.53pH, from up on the limestone plateau. A yield of 17hl/ha. Drinking Window 2026 - 2042

95 points Jane Anson decanter.com

The 2020 Pavie Decesse is a blend of 88% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Franc, aging in French oak barrels, 80% new. It has an alcohol of 14.81% and a pH of 3.52. Deep purple-black colored, notions of baked blackberries, preserved plums and black cherry compote come barreling out of the glass, followed by suggestions of dark chocolate, licorice and Indian spices, with a fragrant hint of lavender. The medium to full-bodied palate is jam-packed with rich, spicy black fruits, supported by firm yet beautifully plush tannins and a lively backbone, finishing long with lots of emerging earthy nuances.

95-97 points Lisa Perrotti-Brown robertparker.com

A tight, pinpointed Pavie Decesse with a medium to full body and racy tannins that are vertical and deep. Takes you down the palate. Chewy. Chalky tannins.

96-97 points James Suckling jamessuckling.com