CRITIC REVIEWS
Julia Harding MW
93% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc. 73% of the wine went into the grand vin. 14.4% alcohol (15% in 2010, 13.9% in 2011), pH 3.7. Work in vineyard paying off: drainage for the heavy clay parts of the estate. Rich and inky colour. Definite mineral overlay on the dark fruit, adding freshness. and theres a hint of exotic spice and delicate complexity. Dense and rich and juicy. Already harmonious though with the structure to age. Finishes fresh and refreshing, quite surprising given the alcohol. Very good length and plenty of tannin but refined in texture so will certainly become velvety. (JH)
Jane Anson
93% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc. Not the easiest vintage, yet the luscious fruit is evident even on the nose. Concentrated and silky, with an intense cassis expression. Perhaps a little short compared to the best vintages, but the attack is very complete. Low Cabernet Franc because many replanted vines were still young at this point. Tasting great today but is not one to age for too long. One of the surprises of the tasting.