Chateau de Millery 2018

The 2018 Millery is magnificent. Rich, layered and sumptuous, Millery dazzles from the very first taste. The warm vintage has given this typically reserved Saint-Émilion an extra kick of richness that works so well here. Inky red fruit, blood orange, mint, spice, cedar and new leather are some of the many aromas and flavors that develop in the glass. Silky, perfectly ripe tannins wrap it all together. This is such a sexy Saint-Émilion.

This first scents are floral in character, accompanied by a touch of blackcurrant and raspberry, but aeration reveals graphite and slightly smoky notes. The palate is perfectly balanced and expresses clearly the potential of this estate. The 2018 de Millery is a racy thoroughbred that will go the distance without effort, a telltale sign being its chalk-infused yet airborne finish. Should age well for 20 to 25 years.

Made with consulting advice from the up-and-coming Thomas Duclos (the vineyards are managed by the team at Figeac), the 2018 Château de Millery appears to be a thrilling Saint-Émilion based on 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that’s still resting in 80% new barrels. Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by a medium to full-bodied, plump, rounded 2018 that has perfumed notes of wild strawberries, blueberries, blood orange, and violets. It’s exotic, pure, and seamless, and unquestionably a beautiful wine.

From Saint-Christophe-des-Bardes, the 2018 de Millery is made up of 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. It is maturing in 80% new and 20% two-year-old barrels for a projected 16 months. Deep garnet-purple colored, it gives up bright, expressive notes of Morello cherries, black raspberries and crushed black plums with touches of smoked meats, fried herbs and underbrush. Medium to full-bodied, it has a soft texture and bags of juicy fruit, finishing on a lingering savory note.