La Forge de Ripeau, Saint Emilion Grand Cru, 2021

Jonathan Maltus OBE is one of the most influential names in Bordeaux winemaking. His first wine, Le Dôme, was roundly rated 100pts and put him on the worldwide map for first-rate wines.

Experienced wine buyers will tell you to 'follow the producer' - and I couldn't think of a better person to follow. Everything this man creates is simply delicious.

The three soil types of St. Emilion give this wine a balance and harmony found in few others from the appellation. Tuck away into the cellar for a few decades - if you can bear to wait.

This Merlot dominant blend is so deep and brooding after vinification that it needs just over a year in new oak before bottling.