2019 Château La Croix de Pez Saint-Estèphe

60% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Cabernet Franc.  Aged in French oak, 40% new, 40% first year and 20% second year. 13.5% alcohol.  This opulent, under-the-radar Bordeaux comes from an estate neighbouring Montrose and Cos d’Estournel.  Since 2014 La Croix de Pez has been run by the grandchildren of Philippe Guyonnaud, who used to take his wine to the local cooperative.  Full bodied, rich and spicy, this gives off an earthy, savory nose of plum, blueberry, dusty blackberry, peppercorns, spicy oak notes and cedar. Bone dry, with firm tannins and high acidity, this is one to be decanted for a bit or aged in the cellar. It already has a lovely velvety texture but will do best paired with rich, fatty foods after an hour of air.