Château Chasse‑Spleen 2019 from Moulis‑en‑Médoc is a seriously classy left‑bank claret – dark, brooding and beautifully composed, with that old‑school Bordeaux feel wrapped in modern polish. Ripe cassis, blackberry and dark cherry roll out of the glass, backed by pencil shavings, cedar, tobacco leaf and a stony, mineral edge that speaks clearly of its gravelly terroir.

On the palate it sits in the medium‑to‑full pocket, all supple black fruits and brambly redcurrant framed by chewy, fine‑grained tannins and bright acidity. Hints of licorice, clove, graphite and earthy undergrowth add savoury complexity, while quality oak is seamlessly tucked in behind the fruit. It’s impressive already with a decent decant, but clearly built to stretch its legs over the next decade and beyond.

At the table, this is a natural fit for roast lamb, rib‑eye on the bone or a rich mushroom and thyme ragù. It’s also superb with hard cheeses and charcuterie, where that structure and freshness cut through the fat and salt beautifully. For Bordeaux lovers chasing value in a strong vintage, Château Chasse‑Spleen 2019 absolutely punches above its weight.