Deep ruby in hue, the nose offers classic Claret aromas of fresh morello cherry, cassis and cedar. The palate is full of mature red plum and liquorice flavours, with firm but ripe, long-grained tannins. A pleasing acidity propels the wine to a long, savoury finish.

Pair it with red meat, pasta dishes and hearty legume stews.

The Despagne family have deep roots in the Entre-Deux-Mers region of Bordeaux. For over 200 years Vignobles Despagne has been making wine focused on excellence. The family run Vignobles Despagne has earned its place among the biggest names in Bordeaux thanks to its innovation in winemaking and its excellent terroir.

Jean-Louis Despagne embarked on a mission to modernise the winery in the 1980s, this has been continued by the family and has helped establish the Despagne estates at the cutting edge of modern Bordeaux. Low yields produce fruit of great purity and the combination of environmentally sensitive viticulture and a dynamic approach to vinification ensures that Vignobles Despagne is seen as one of the top producers in the Entre-Deux-Mers.

Today the business is run by Thibault, Gabriel and Basaline.

"Dark plums, thyme, bitter cocoa and tobacco leaves on the nose. It’s medium-bodied, with firm, grainy tannins. There’s a dark and gently bitter edge here. Remains fresh. Drink in 2025."
90 points.
Claire Nesbitt, jamessuckling.com (January 2023)