Chateau Grand Mayne Saint Emilion Grand Cru [Pre-arrival] 2020

VM93-95: The 2020 Grand Mayne is focused and delineated on a nose that offers plenty of finely chiseled scents of black cherry, bilberry, crushed rock and incense, opulent but beautifully controlled. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent ripe black fruit on the entry, and laced with graphite, touches of tobacco and minerals. From beginning to end, this 2020 displays wonderful tension, and there is a sense of refinement on the finish that I think has only manifested in vintages of Grand Mayne over the last 5–6 years. This delivers, or perhaps overdelivers considering the price. - Neal Martin

WA93-95: Opaque purple-black in color, the 2020 Grand Mayne slowly unfurls in the glass to reveal gorgeous notions of ripe black plums, dark chocolate-covered cherries and blackberry pie, plus hints of licorice, cracked black pepper and unsmoked cigars with a touch of tree bark. The medium to full-bodied palate is chock-full of rich black fruits, supported by ripe, rounded tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and beautifully perfumed.

JD91-93: Always a solid wine, the 2020 Château Grand Mayne should be outstanding, if not even better. Offering a medium to full-bodied, ripe, textured style as well as lots of plum and darker fruits, it has terrific purity, building tannins, and a great mid-palate. I was able to taste this from multiple bottles, all showing a good mix of richness and freshness, and if anything, I’m being conservative with the rating.