Ormes de Pez 2013

This wine should offer reasonably good value as well as immediate drinkability when released in 2015. Notes of tobacco leaf and red and black fruits, a medium-bodied mouthfeel and an easygoing texture suggest this charming, but superficial 2013 will drink well for 3-4 years.

The 2013 Les Ormes de Pez has a respectable bouquet with raspberry and wild strawberry scents, a touch of cedar coming through and developing an almost Pauillac-like persona. The palate is a little tinny on the entry, but the mid-palate has respectable weight with more red than black fruit, gently building to a single, peppery finish that cuts away quickly. Still, this represents decent luncheon Claret if nothing more.

Owned and made by the Cazes family of Lynch Bages, this is a consistently good wine and deserving of Cru Classé status. 15% of the crop was sold off in bulk in 2013 and the blend is 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot , 10% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Medium-deep ruby with black cherries, plums, and creamy vanilla on the nose. The palate has a soft, supple structure with rounded and ripe tannins layered with mulberry and plums. Balanced by acidity, the finish is impressively long and toasty with new French oak.

The Ormes de Pez is a blend of 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot raised in 45% new oak. The Merlot is quite expressive on the nose with black plum and blackcurrant fruit with a touch of cedar. The palate is actually Pauillac in style with a rather austere middle. It is not as structured as recent vintages, a toned down version of the 2011 and 2012. Tasted April 2014.