Saintayme/Saintem 2021

The Durantou family's 2021 Saintayme derives from soils rich in large stones in Saint-Étienne-de-Lisse. Offering up aromas of sweet blackberries, licorice and spices, it's medium-bodied, lively and charming, with a fleshy core of fruit and fine, powdery tannins.

The 2021 Saintayme was picked from September 28 to October 11 and raised in 30% new oak. Kirsch and cranberry jus burst from the glass. The palate is not complex but well balanced, showing a touch of plushness toward the finish. Enjoy this after a couple of years in bottle.

The 2021 is 100% Merlot as always, harvested from 28th September to 11th October. Total production will be 5,000 cases at 13.5% abv, with 30% matured in new French oak barrels. Bright ruby colour. Very fragrant, with cherry blossom and sweeter juicy plums. Super airy and lifted on the palate, this is a juicy, moreish and approachable wine. There is a little chalk and grip for now, but this should integrate nicely through elevage and make this delicious in the mid term. Cedar and fresh red berries linger on the finish.

This pure merlot is bright and fruity with crushed berry and orange peel. Medium body and fresh acidity. Very citrusy.

The 2021 Saintayme is 100% Merlot, aging in 30% new oak. Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, it skips out of the glass with cheery notions of fresh raspberries, warm strawberries, and fallen leaves with wafts of wild thyme and black pepper. Medium-bodied, the palate is crisp and crunchy with bags of red berry flavors and a soft-textured finish.
2024-2031

Beautiful juice here, cool, measured, reserved, precise blue fruit and gunsmoke reduction, with sinew and just a touch of swagger. Harvest September 28 to October 11.

100% Merlot. Cask sample.
Round, aromatic and gourmand. Chalky freshness and tannins. Lighter weight but pleasure in the fruit and freshness. (JL) 13.5%
Drink 2025 – 2032