Château Trotanoy Pomerol 2005

A wine that famously takes its time to come around, and the colour remains robust ruby at 17 years old, with pale sunrise red around the edges. Still plenty of ripe and young berry fruit on the nose, followed by melted tannins and gently-smoked caramel – showcasing the generosity of Pomerol in a way that Trotanoy sometimes hides when young. Cigar box, Christmas spice, liqourice, edges of bitter black chocolate, tapenade, mocha and menthol, still building in power over the palate, on the precipe of tertiary truffle and rose petal flavours. Just so engaging. Last tasted a few years ago, and it has noticeably stepped into its tasting window. A wine that makes you smile, and immediately reach for another glass – and a friend to share it with. Owned by the Moueix family, and a moment at the property when they had introduced smaller tanks in the cellar, and more precision in harvesting with small baskets. 50% new oak.