The 2014 Barde-Haut, a blend of 87.3% Merlot and 12.7% Cabernet Franc, has a relatively opulent bouquet compared to its peers with ripe red cherries, kirsch, hints of crème de cassis, and it becomes spicier as it opens in the glass. The palate is smooth on the entry with succulent ripe red and black fruit. This feels harmonious and silky smooth, just a touch of pain grillé on the entry, fine structure, tightening up on the mid-palate with a gentle, insistent grip on the lightly spiced finish where the Cabernet Franc imparts a subtle bell pepper note. This is excellent.