Mocha, terra-cotta, graphite and black fruit on the nose. Sleek and firm, nicely compact and focused, with a medium body and polished, very fine tannins. Lovely balance and length. The 2021 Sociando-Mallet has turned out nicely in bottle, offering up aromas of dark berries and cassis mingled with hints of cigar wrapper and pencil lead. It is medium to full-bodied, fleshy and seamless, with impressive concentration for the vintage, sweet tannins, integrated acids and a penetrating finish. Sweetly juicy and clear on the nose, so floral but clean. The purity is there on the nose and palate, succulent and easy to enjoy. I love the bright red fruits, the strawberry, raspberry and red cherry with these crushed stone edges giving the texture and flavour of minerality on the tongue and in the mouth. This has perfect elegance and finesse, all the elements presented so well. Just the right balance of push and drive along the palate - a great example this vintage, not trying too hard and presenting what 2021 gave. Barrel Sample: 91