I was blown away by the 2020 Château Le Bon Pasteur, which is owned by renowned consultants Dani and Michel Rolland. A blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, its deep ruby/purple hue is followed by a stunning array of ripe currants, cassis, chocolate, leafy tobacco, and scorched earth. This carries to a full-bodied Pomerol with a layered, seamless mouthfeel, ultra-fine tannins, and the balance and purity to benefit from 4-6 years of bottle age and keep for over two decades. If forced to pick, it's probably my favorite of the 2018, 2019, and 2020 trio, but comparing these three magical vintages over the coming 15-20 years is going to be a serious treat.

The 2020 Le Bon Pasteur is just as compelling from bottle as it was en primeur. Dark, ample and beautifully resonant, the 2020 is engaging right out of the gate. Blackberry, espresso, chocolate, licorice, spice and mocha build in a potent, layered Pomerol that delivers the goods. The balance of fruit intensity and vibrancy is compelling.

Deep purple-black colored, the 2020 Bon Pasteur needs a little swirling to release bright, vibrant notes of crushed black and red plums, boysenberries and black raspberries, plus hints of menthol, cedar chest and fertile loam. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a solid frame of grainy tannins and well-balanced acidity supporting the earth-laced, muscular black fruits, finishing on a lingering black pepper note.

Solid, with a winey core of red and black currant and blackberry compote flavors studded with briar, tobacco leaf and humus. Shows a slightly chunky edge on the finish, but has good stuffing and energy for the vintage. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2025 through 2036. 2,000 cases made, 500 cases imported.