Tasting Notes
Vinous 97
Bright, saturated ruby. Alluring aromas of blueberry, cassis, licorice, minerals, mocha and nutty oak. At once thick and lively on entry, then densely packed and compellingly deep in in the middle palate, with its dark fruit, smoke and graphite flavors conveying a subtle savory quality that nicely buffers the wine’s sweetness and alcohol. At once harmonious and gripping for the year, this reverberating, palate-staining wine spreads out on the back end without losing its verticality–if that’s possible! Impeccable tannin management here.
Anticipated maturity: 2020-2040
JancisRobinson.com 17.5
Magnum. 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, remainder: Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot. A bit more warmth, cocoa and spice to the overall profile here and broader brushstrokes to the presentation as well. There is a shift in the flavour profile where the blue, purple or black fruits that had been apparent in the younger vintages have begun to turn towards earthy elements, powdery exotic spices, cocoa and gunmetal – the first subtle hints of ageing. A bit of pepper emerges on the finish but remains pleasant. The 2009 vintage has a lot of strength to it and feels full of power, especially after the finer-boned vintages described above that succeeded it. There is a building and savoury presence that extends the finish. This will do well with waiting a bit before opening though you could drink it now alongside food. (ECB)
Anticipated maturity: 2020-2048
