This is still young in feel, with personality and punch. Easy to approach, elderflower, liquorice root, blueberries, cloves, gunsmoke. Another wine that proves the quality of 2020 vintage across the Bishop Rey range. 2.5ha plot of clay limestone soils, with steep slopes running from 90m down to 60m, aged in a mix of oak casks and stainless steel.

Incorporating 10% Cabernet Franc, the Merlot-dominated 2020 Chemin De La Reine comes from 2.5 hectares of vines planted between 2000 and 2002 on a mix of limestone and clay soils. Aged 22 months in 45% foudre, 45% in once- and twice-used barrels, and the balance in amphora, its semi-opaque hue gives way to a nicely concentrated, medium-bodied Castillon that has rocking darker cherry and mulberry fruits, ripe, polished tannins, a layered, elegant mouthfeel, and some classic Franc leafy herbs, damp earth, and truffly goodness. I love the overall complexity here, and it's going to evolve nicely over the coming decade – and I wouldn't be surprised to see it still offering loads of pleasure on its 20th birthday. This is the most nuanced, elegant, and seamless in the Bishop Rey lineup.