The 2015 Château Haut Simard, from the ten-hectare block in front of Canon-la-Gaffelière planted at 12,000 vines per hectare, is a blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc. It has a more complex and cerebral bouquet compared to the Simard (as usual) with a noticeable marine influence, seaweed and oyster shell, that infuses the red and black fruit. The palate is very well balanced with succulent tannin that disguises the spine of this Saint-Émilion. There is great tension here, quite mineral-driven with a touch of graphite and spice toward the persistent finish. This is an excellent wine, one of the best that I have tasted since the Vauthier’s debuted with the 2008 vintage. Drink from 2022 - 2042
