G Acte 5 2013

The 2013 Acte 5, the first vintage to include selection massale Cabernet Franc from Château Lafleur, has a very conservative and quite earthy bouquet, nicely defined if just missing a little vigour due to the challenging growing season. It seems a little static at the moment, a bit lethargic in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin and a fine bead of acidity, actually better than the nose suggests. Harmonious and lithe, it gradually deepens with blackberry pastille and a hint of salted liquorice on the finish that I notice becomes leafier with time. It ends up better than anticipated, a 2013 handicapped by the aromatics. Tasted at the Acte vertical in London.