Château Le Boscq 2017

Still quite wood-influenced; compact and austere in build, robust, also shaped by the élevage on the finish, still closed, should age.

A sanguine accent leads off, pulling red currant and pomegranate fruit along as this slowly opens up to reveal more damson plum, tea and iron notes through the end. The focused and pure finish shows mouthwatering cut. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2021 through 2030. 7,500 cases made.

This is spicy with some dried-meat and berry character. Medium body. Light tannins and a medium finish. A blend of 64% cabernet sauvignon, 34% merlot and 2% petit verdot. Drink now.

The 2017 Le Boscq has a slightly staid bouquet that is correct but lacks real flair or excitement. The palate is very approachable thanks to its very pliant tannins and there is a fine bead of acidity. Yet, there is a need for ambition on the finish and it does not really imprint itself upon your vinous memory bank. Drink over the next five years.

Ethereal maroon in hue, the wine resonates with fleshy, vibrant fruit. The tannins are soft, and only a few years are needed to reveal even more complexity.

Kunz barrel sample 18: (64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot) Sweet, finely opulent, powerful bouquet with plums, black cherries, vanilla, subtle caramel. Powerful, aromatic palate with good tannins, dark fruit, finely muscular structure, spicy aromatics, long, full finish.

(64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot) Sweet, finely opulent, powerful bouquet of plum, black cherry, vanilla, and a hint of caramel. Powerful, aromatic palate with well-knit tannins, dark fruit, finely muscular structure, spicy aromatics, and a long, full finish. 17/20 2024 - 2038

Sappy, juicy, ample wine with an intense palate, crunchy tannins, and a long, graphite finish.

Deep garnet-red with violet highlights. The bouquet of Boscq 2017 reflects its terroir and élevage. Notes of graphite, tobacco leaf, and chocolate. Savory and refreshing on the palate. The wine has body and fine-grained tannins. They are perfectly integrated and in harmony with the structure. The latter is juicy, refreshing, and ideally supports the fruity expression on the finish. A fine success.

Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2017 le Boscq is a little broody to begin, with notes of tar and new leather over a core of warm red and black currants, mulberries and cedar chest plus hints of menthol and pencil lead. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a solid frame of grainy tannins and tons of freshness supporting the muscular red and black fruit, finishing with good length.

Dark color, slightly evolved. Moderately aromatic, fruity nose. A palate with a soft body, developing roundly, pleasant to the touch, fruity, with medium length and no tannic edges.

92–94. Barrel Sample. Dry tannins balance the fine blackberry flavor that is cut by intense acidity. It is certainly fruity but does also have the structure of a Saint-Estèphe. This is a dense wine for aging. Drink from 2024.