Les Champs Libres (by Lafleur) 2015

The 2015 Les Champs Libres has a very attractive bouquet of gooseberry, fresh pear and light Granny Smith apple aromas, well defined and more mineral-driven than its peers. The palate is lightly spiced on the entry, with a fine bead of acidity and impressive tension. The slightly peppery, asparagus-tinged finish feels long and tender. Superb. Tasted blind at the Southwold 2015 Bordeaux tasting.

The 2015 Blanc (100% Sauvignon Blanc) offers lovely fresh grapefruit, white peaches and fresh pears notes with touches of lime zest and orange blossoms. The palate is medium-bodied, very minerally/chalky and refreshing with great intensity and length.

The 2015 Les Champs Libres (from the Guinaudeau family at Château Lafleur in Pomerol) includes a little Semillon Blanc this year. It was picked between September 5-9. It has an attractive bouquet with lime cordial, dried pineapple and honeysuckle scents that are very well defined. The palate is fresh and crisp on the entry, vibrant and energetic, the 100% new oak barely noticeable. This is one of the less-known gems from the Guinaudeaus and it comes highly recommended.