Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2016 Gazin features a beautifully perfumed nose of violets, Ceylon tea, cigar box, sandalwood and fallen leaves over a core of plum preserves, kirsch and blackberry preserves plus a waft of aniseed. Medium-bodied and elegant, with compelling restraint, it has a seductively plush texture, finishing with bags of poise, perfume and persistence.

The 2016 Gazin has a ripe bouquet featuring copious red berry fruit, orange peel, hints of dark chocolate and a dab of iodine. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, fresh and very lithe in the mouth, and silky-smooth, although it does not boast the greatest depth. This is a very well made wine that should not require extended cellaring but will give years of pleasure. It may be entering a dumb phase, though. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.

The 2016 Château Gazin is outstanding, but it's firm, straight, and closed, and would certainly be better with more flesh and opulence. Vivid ruby/purple-colored, with notes of cassis and black raspberries as well as spring flowers, it hits the palate with medium-bodied richness, firm tannins, terrific purity, and a clean finish. The blend is 87% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 8% Cabernet Franc. It's going to benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and keep for 15+.