Bordeaux 2010 - 10 Years On - 61 Reds
Tasted Monday, June 29, 2020 by Cailles with 5,169 views
Introduction
Some additional information based on the average scores of 5 participants (all wines tasted blind)
Appelation Ranking
Rank / Appellation / Avg. Score / #1 Votes
1 Pomerol 95.2 / 3
2 Pauillac 95.1 / 2
3 Margaux 93.3 / 0
4 St. Emillion 92.7 / 0
5 St. Julien 92.7 / 0
6 St. Estephe 92.6 / 0
7 Pessac-Leognan 92.0 / 0
Left vs Right Bank
Rank / Left or Right / Avg. Score / #1 Votes
1 Right Bank 93.12 / 3
2 Left Bank 93.05 / 2
Top 10 Wines
Rank / Wine / Avg. Score
1 Mouton Rothschild 98.8
2 Margaux 98.4
3 Le Pin 97.8
4 Vieux Chateau Certain 97.2
5 Cheval Blanc 96.0
5 Clos Manou 96.0
5 Latour 96.0
8 Eglise Clinet 95.8
9 Lafleur 95.4
9 Angelus 95.4
Worst 10 Wines
Rank / Wine / Avg. Score
52 Clauzet 90.4
52 La Mondotte 90.4 (some oxidation)
54 Pavie Maquin 90.3 (some oxidation)
54 La Sergue 90.3
56 Pape Clement 89.2 (over-oaked and overdone)
57 Domaine de Chevalier 89.0 (probably a bad bottle)
58 Moulin Haut Laroque 88.8
59 Dubois Grimons 87
60 Duffau Lagarosse 86.7 (oxidized)
61 Larrivet de Haut Brion (badly corked)
2010 VS OTHER VINTAGE RETROSPECTIVES (updated 02/24)
AVERAGE GROUP SCORE
1) 2009 93.9 (Tasted in 2019)
2) 2010 93.0 (2020)
3) 2000 92.7 (2021)
4) 2012 92.1 (2022)
5) 2011 91.3 (2021)
6) 2003 91.1 (2023)
7) 2004 91.0 (2024)
WINES >95 AVERAGE SCORE
1) 2009 17x (47 red wines)
2) 2010 13x (61)
3) 2000 4x (48)
4) 2012 4x (33)
5) 2011 3x (30)
6) 2003 1x (29)
6) 2004 1x (33)
WINES >97 AVERAGE SCORE
1) 2010 5x
2) 2009 4x
3) 2000, 2003, 2004, 2011, 2012 0x
2010 Château Fonréaud 90 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Listrac-Médoc
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Dark ripe fruits, herbs a bit of toffee, medium- intensity and precision on the nose and palate. Tannin structure is still noticeable but fairly soft and silky. Not a stunner but definitely a good wine but without a wow factor.
Decanting: 2 hours are advised.
Group average score: 91.8
Group rank: number 40 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Clauzet 88 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, St. Estèphe
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Rather muted on the nose with a bit more expression on the palate dominated by darker red berries and lots of herbs. Fairly simple and with tannins still showing some hard edges. An ok wine without any particular strengths.
Decanting: 2 hours are advised.
Group average score: 90.4
Group rank: number 52 out of 61 wines
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2010 La Dame de Montrose 91 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, St. Estèphe
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: The nose here is still a bit closed and so is the palate but you can sense that this wine has more in store. Aristocratic with fresh but ripe cherries, some more red fruit, lots minerality and herbs. Seems very masculine and misses charm and sexyness. The precision here is on a good level but this will need more time to open up and further soften as the tannins still have some hard edges. Good freshness, medium length. Might become a very classic wine with a bit more age but still not one I would chase.
Decanting: 3+ hours are advised.
Group average score: 93.4
Group rank: number 28 out of 61 wines
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2010 Clos Manou 96 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: This was a big surprise and a winner. Nicely expressive and concentrated nose displaying burnt sugar, herbs and dark fruits. Good intensity and precision on the concentrated palate with additional aromas of sweet strawberries and floral aromas, some cola notes. Sexy but elegant and well-integrated oak aromas. Fine, satin-like tannins and a good freshness. Pleasant texture and medium length. The 50%+ merlot in the blend adds to the roundness and sexiness (in this tannic vintage some Merlot really helps). This was a big surprise and one I would buy in a heart beat, if it would still be available. A steal and easily 95-96 points.
Decanting: No extensive decant needed, I still would advise to at least give it 1 hour in the decanter.
Group average: 96
Group rank score: number 5 out of 61 wines
(shared with Latour, Cheval Blanc)
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2010 Château Calon-Ségur 94 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, St. Estèphe
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Beautiful, singular nose with alpine herbs, fir tips along sweet red fruit. Intense and precise. Same picture on the palate with sweet, charming red fruit, strawberries, some herbs, slight earthy tones and subtle oak notes. Soft, mellowed structure with fine tannins and a well-integrated acidity. The downside here was that it was rather short. Still this is a good wine and in a beautiful first drinking window. The softness and red fruit character made me believe that we might be in Pessac and with a wine with a significant Merlot component in the blend, but apparently this is 86% Cabernet Sauvignon. Quite a stark contrast to the Cos d'Estournel and Montrose which we had blind next to it, which are both much darker, classic and very closed not charming at all.
Decanting: No extensive decant needed, I still would advise to at least give it 1 hour in the decanter.
Group average: 94.0
Group rank: number 20 out of 61 wines
(shared with Petrus, Trotanoy)
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2010 Château Cos d'Estournel 90 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, St. Estèphe
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Not overly giving, rather muted nose with smoke, earthy tones and slight oak notes. Not really invinting nose. Just slightly more open on the palate with the same aromas along lots of dark forest fruit and more minerality. The tannins are still massive and slightly harsh and to be frank with a slightly drying sensation. Good freshness but overall this bottle was not overly communicative, still you can sense that there is more stuffing underneath which will come out eventually. 90 points, more for the potential than the pleasure of drinking it but be aware, that it was ever so slightly corked, so maybe not really a representative bottle.
Decanting: I would at least decant the wine for 6 or 8 hours.
Group average: 92.5
Group rank: number 33 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Montrose 88 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, St. Estèphe
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: This bottle has a lot of substance but I found it utterly hard to drink. No expression, no charm, no fun, no joy. There is a dense dark core but with very little expression and precision. It’s not the only 2010 left bank which showed completely muted (Cos and Haut Bailly come to mind). This definitely needs more time to soften and open-up. I wouldn’t touch my bottles for at least 5 more years (probably 10 or 20 more years are needed). Hard to get to a better score than 88 points if the wine gives you nothing. The others rated it a tad higher.
Decanting: I would at least decant it for 8 to 10 hours.
Group average: 92.2
Group rank: number 38 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Tour Haut-Caussan 90 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Mostly dark fruits with some earthy notes and smoke. Not overly expressive, not deep, not precise and still a bit muted. But on the other hand, not as shutdown as the Cos and Montrose before and with a softer structure than the two. No obvious faults here but no obvious great traits either. A bit boring.
Decanting: I would for sure decant it for at least 2 hours.
Group average: 91.8
Group rank: number 40 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Palmer 93 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Margaux
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Medium expressive nose with dark and dark red berries and herbs. Good precision but not very exciting. On the palate still a bit the occasional hard edge here and there but overall already early accessible and although not fully open, entering its first drinking window with red berries, more dark fruit with a good precision. Good freshness but lacks depth and balance at this point. With more time in the glass a slight cork taint emerged more and more from the glass, hence probably not a fully representative bottle. When revealed I was surprised that this is Palmer as I expect clearly more depth and a softer structure. Pales in comparison to the Margaux we had in the glass next to it and no match for the amazing Palmer 2009. 93 points, ignoring the TCA.
Decanting: I would at least decant for 4 or better 6 hours.
Group average: 93.5
Group rank: number 27 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Margaux 99 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Margaux
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Second time I taste this wine this year and again it deserves an almost perfect score. Highly expressive and complex aromas on the nose and palate, wonderfully balanced, harmonious and everything delivered with laser-sharp precision. Coffee, toffee, nutty aromas, bright, fresh red fruit, floral aromas, dark blue and black fruits here and there, earthy tones, some hints of minerality, unbelievably soft tannins, no hard edges, superb freshness and great length. The complete package which will likely reach perfection as soon as teritary aromas kick in. The 2009 currently is more expressive, bolder which might be very appealing but this 2010 has such an unbelievable grace which more than compensates for that. Wow.
Decanting: Shined right from the first minute and without decanting but based on recent experiences with the 2009, I would guess this will be even better with 10 hours in decanter.
Group average: 98.4
Group rank: number 2 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Pontet-Canet 93 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Pauillac
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: The nose was not very expressive here but got better with some swirling although it never reached the level of attractiveness of other 2010s. On the palate slightly more expressive with super-well defined dark and bright red fruits. The tannins at first with a slightly drying sensation which luckily disappeared later. Not the most complex showing tonight but having had that with a proper decant before, this just needs more time or a lot of air to fully shine with more complex aromatics and a softer structural frame. Promising 93 points tonight (but it can easily reach 97 points).
Decanting: At least 6 hours.
Group average: 94.8
Group rank: number 12 out of 61 wines
(shared with La Mission, Pichon Baron, Branon)
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2010 Château Pichon-Longueville Baron 95 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Pauillac
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: At first, this was a muted, closed 90 points wine at best but with some air it quickly opened up, although the nose remained rather quiet. On the palate there is a lot of bright red fruit, more dark fruit, earthy aromas, a very nice mineral component. Aristocratic, essential Pauillac with soft tannins and that extra kick of sweet fruit to balance out the angularity of any masculine Bordeaux. Wonderfully harmonious and one of the very best Pauillacs in this horizontal tasting. It certainly has much more potential to show more complex with more age (or air).
Decanting: At lest 3-4 hours seem necessary at this point.
Group average: 94.8
Group rank: number 12 out of 61 wines
(shared with La Mission, Pontet Canet, Branon)
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2010 Château Mouton Rothschild 100 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Pauillac
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: From the first nose and first sip it was clear that this is greatness in liquid form. In the first few minutes, it was not as open and expressive as the Margaux we had earlier in the evening but with a bit of swirling that changed and the Mouton eclipsed all other wines. Pure perfection with a very elegant, expressive, intense, hyper-sharp nose full of toast, burnt sugar, fresh ripe dark berries and blue fruit. Same aromas and more red fruit, minerality, sexy oak and some smoke, tobacco on the palate with so much sexiness, sharpness and verve, highly layered, very balanced with perfectly fine tannins and a very good freshenss. Of course this Pauillac is a tad more masculine than the Margaux but the concentration and expression is so impressive and all that is delivered with so much elegance.
Decanting: Shined right from the start and without any decanting but my guess is that with a long 6 zo 8 hours decant, it could be even better.
Group average: 98.8
Group rank: number 1 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Lafite Rothschild 93 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Pauillac
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: At first this was very closed but with some time in the glass it open-up more and more. I guess, that with another 30 minutes time to let it breathe in the glass this would have achieved an even higher score. In a flight with Mouton and Latour, this was clearly the most feminine wine with very fine tannins, a weightless (Bordeaux weightless) structure and sweet but fresh strawberry aromas. You get that there is much more in store for this wine in terms of complexity but right now and not decanted, it is just not up there with the best. Yet, once open and singing, this could well become a 95-98 point wine.
Decanting: Right now, this would have needed at least 4-6 hours in the decanter (it got none).
Group average: 93.6
Group rank: number 24 out of 61 wines
(shared with Haut Brion, Le Dome)
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2010 Château Latour Grand Vin 95 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Pauillac
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Despite a lot of swirling the nose never really opened up. On the palate it shines brighter with lots of pure fresh red and dark red berries, dark fruits, some floral notes a bit of toasty aromas but especially with a deep, deep mineral component with lots of wet slate, graphite. And while you sense that it is still in its shell, you know that there is much more in store. It is a highly elegant, artistocratic and very harmonious wine with a wall of very fine tannins and a good freshness. Very concentrated, yet without any excess weight. My guess is that this will need at least another 10 years to reach its first drinking window.
Decanting: If you open a bottle today, I would decant it for at least 8 hours.
Group average: 96.0
Group rank: number 5 out of 61 wines
(shared with Cheval Blanc, Clos Manou)
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2010 Château La Mission Haut-Brion 94 Points
France, Bordeaux, Graves, Pessac-Léognan
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: The nose is fairly muted and never really opened-up. On the palate much more expressive with sweet dark and red fruits, some nice earthy and oak-derived aromas, a mineral backbone but with the intriguing sweet fruit at the core. A lot of fun to drink with good mid-palate concentration and all embedded in a fairly fine structure which will only improve with time. Points deducted for the almost non-existant nose and the quite short finish. This would have needed a long decant and/or 10 more years to come around. A controversial wine with a some of the group liking it a lot but more don’t liking it at all (an me somewhere between these two groups).
Decanting: At least 8 hours in the decanter is advised.
Group average: 94.8
Group rank: number 12 out of 61 wines
(shared with Pontet Canet, Pichon Baron, Branon)
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2010 Château Haut-Brion 92 Points
France, Bordeaux, Graves, Pessac-Léognan
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: This was a big disappointment. First, no bouquet, completly muted nose. Second, beside very pleasant and pure sweet red fruit virtually no other aromas emerging on the palate. Fine structure, good freshness but all in all quite ordinary and boring. You can sense that the wine has more in store but this bottle was still in shutdown mode. I wouldn‘t touch it for another 10 years.
Decanting: This would have needed at least 8 hours in the decanter is my guess.
Group average: 93.6
Group rank: number 24 out of 61 wines
(shared with Lafite, Le Dome)
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2010 Château Pape Clément 87 Points
France, Bordeaux, Graves, Pessac-Léognan
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Boy, this was a big disappointment. There is so much unintegrated and to be honest fairly cheap oak aromas that I first thought that the bottle has cork or some other fault. Underneath there is so much extraction and very ripe fruit that you think you drink a completly overdone cheap Spanish Tempranillo. I‘ve had this wine a few years ago (no CT note) when it didn‘t show so overdone but this bottle was the caricature of a Bordeaux. EDIT add-on: I've had the 2015 recently it it felt almost as cheap right after opening, with tons of unintegrated oak. Magically after a double decant and 7+ hours back in the bottle it transformed into a beautiful wine without this disturbing oak notes. So maybe the right amount of decanting will turn this 2010 into a beautiful wine (in this tasting the wines were not decanted).
Decanting: Fairly open, doesn‘t probably need more than 2 hours at this point.
Group average: 89.2
Group rank: number 56 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Smith Haut Lafitte 92 Points
France, Bordeaux, Graves, Pessac-Léognan
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Like almost all Pessac-Leognan wines the SHL is not yet really open for business, so the 92 points are just what the wine delivered in this tasting. I believe that the wine has the substance to be a lot of pleasure but this evening it showed a bit of dark fruits, sweet red berries, hints of tobacco but not in an intensity and harmony which would deserve much more than this mediocre score. The structure is impeccable, though, and will allow for graceful ageing. I would wait at least another 5 years before opening this wine.
Decanting: This wine would have needed at least 4 or rather 6 hours in the decanter.
Group average: 92.6
Group rank: number 31 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Haut-Bailly 89 Points
France, Bordeaux, Graves, Pessac-Léognan
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: I’ve had this wine before in another blind tasting and it was no fun to drink and only slowly opened up after several hours in the decanter. This bottle showed similar. Muted nose with a tad of sweet fruit and some baking spices. Not very balanced on the palate with still some edgy tannins and a tad too high acidity. Shows a bit of red fruit, minerality but not much more. Precision seems good. This might need another 10 years to open up.
Decanting: At least 10 hours at this point.
Group average: 90.6
Group rank: number 49 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Branon 96 Points
France, Bordeaux, Graves, Pessac-Léognan
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: One of the top two surprises (together with Clos Manou) of the tasting. This wine is singing! Wonderfully expressive and dense nose of coffee, toffee, earthy tones and dark fruits. Much more red fruits and floral notes along luxurious oak notes and herbs on the palate. This is just great to drink today and was not far off the Margaux but can’t compete with the laser-sharp precision and weightlessness of the latter, in addition it does not have the same perfect ripeness. Nevertheless, it is an amazing wine and so much fun to drink today. A must buy.
Decanting: No extensive decanting needed. Was good from the go.
Group average: 94.8
Group rank: number 12 out of 61 wines
(shared with La Mission, Pichon Baron, Pontet Canet)
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2010 Château Luchey-Halde 91 Points
France, Bordeaux, Graves, Pessac-Léognan
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: The nose is rather strange with vegetal and some green aromas but the palate shows fine, ripe and slightly candied red and dark red fruit embedded in a classic structure with high but fine tannins and a high but well-integrated acidity. It is not a complex wine but drinks well today.
Decanting: A short decant 1 hour should do the job.
Group average: 90.6
Group rank: number 49 out of 61 wines
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2010 Domaine de Chevalier 86 Points
France, Bordeaux, Graves, Pessac-Léognan
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: This might well have been a slightly off bottle or something went terribly wrong here. Still a bit muted and with hard edges but especially green, unripe tannins which make drinking this wine very unpleasant. Underneath there is some stuffing and the wine could develop into something nice, so let’s hope the tannins are not green (because you can hardly recovery from that).
Decanting: Still quite young and a bit muted, hence a long decant (4+ hours) seems right.
Group average: 89.0
Group rank: number 57 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Brane-Cantenac 93 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Margaux
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: In the context of this vintage, this is a rather soft and ready to drink wine, like all Margaux. But compared to its appellation peers, this is rather masculine and not (yet) on par in terms of elegance and roundness. The pleasant nose display minerality, dark fruit and slightly toasty notes with fairly good precision. On the palate the wine is open, classic displaying dark and blue berries, toasty aromas and some rocks. Fine, round tannins with just some slight hard edges and a good freshness. Drinks well today, but will certainly gain one or the other point with some more years on the hip.
Decanting: Two hours of decanting seem to be a good choice at this point.
Group average: 91.2
Group rank: number 45 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Cantenac Brown 93 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Margaux
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: What is true for the Brane Cantenac also applies for the Cantenac Brown. Not the most open and soft Margaux but still quite nice to drink today. While the nose is rather muted, the palate shows beautiful blue and black forrest berries and a lot of minerality but you can sense that this wine has more in store. It’s dense but without excess weight and has fine tannins and a good freshness which will allow for graceful ageing. The complexity and precision have some upside but still a good wine.
Decanting: I would decant it for at least 4 hours.
Group average: 92.0
Group rank: number 39 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château d'Issan 94 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Margaux
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Medium expressive nose of burnt sugar and coffee with dark berries. Medium intensity, medium+ precision. Very nice on the palate where it shows more creamy and harmonious than the two other “value” Margauxs served next to it (Brane Cantenac, Canteanc Brown) and hence gets a slightly higher rating. Round, ripe tannins, a good freshness and a good concentration on the palate displaying red and dark fruits, toasty aromas and minerality. This certainly is a winner and drinks quite well today.
Decanting: No extensive decanting needed, 1 or 2 hours should do the job.
Group average: 94.4
Group rank: number 17 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Rauzan-Ségla 92 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Margaux
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: I expected slightly more from this wine as I find it always the best Margaux after Palmer and Chateau Margaux due to an unbelievable softness, weightlessness and purity. But I guess the jump in quality in the recent vintages came after the 2010 vintage with great wines in 2012, 15, 16, 18. Rather muted nose but much better on the palate with soft, pure strawberry aromas, floral aromas, slight hints of earth and minerality. Not yet as expressive as the other Margauxs but still drinking well. Good purity, precision and fine structure.
Decanting: I would decant for at least 3-4 hours.
Group average: 92.4
Group rank: number 33 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste 94 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Pauillac
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Another winner from Pauillac. Already quite open and giving with lots of fine, precise dark forest berries, especially cassis, some toasty/burnt sugar notes, mineral notes. All delivered in good precision and intensity on the nose and palate. Not the most complex wine yet but good harmony and fine structure with a good freshness. Will certainly develop into something beautiful and can reach the 95+ category once mature.
Decanting: A 3-4 hours decant should be enough.
Group average: 92.4
Group rank: number 33 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Larrivet-Haut-Brion Flawed
France, Bordeaux, Graves, Pessac-Léognan
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: This was so badly corked that no assessment about the underlying quality was possible.
Group average: no score
Group rank: number 61 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Haut-Bergey 91 Points
France, Bordeaux, Graves, Pessac-Léognan
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Haven‘t even heard about this winery yet but it was a pleasent surprise with a quite open nose and palate with dark and red fruit, cola, mineral notes embedded in a fine structure. Not overly complex and the alcohol is shwoing a bit but with good precision and balance.
Decanting: No extensive decanting necessary.
Group average: 92.8
Group rank: number 30 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château d'Angludet 90 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Margaux
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Never tried this Chateau before but quite a positive surprise when revealed as it was quite open with fresh red fruit and earthy notes with fine tannins but a slightly intruisve acidity. Not an overly interesting wine, nor overly precise but still pleasant.
Decanting: A two hours decant should be enough.
Group average: 91.2
Group rank: number 45 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château La Fleur-Pétrus 93 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Pomerol
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: The first nose shows slightly too extracted with quite ripe dark and dark red fruit as well as slightly intrusive alcohol notes but with more time in the glass the wine became more harmonious. Sweet red berries, ripe but no longer too ripe, nutty notes, herbs on the nose and palate. Good concentration and precision, very fine tannins, nice creamy texture but with good freshness, medium+ length. The only thing that didn‘t fully went away were the slight heat showing on the nose which destracts from the underlying beauty but other were not that bothered by that.
Decanting: A short two hours decant could be enough.
Group average: 94.4
Group rank: number 17 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château La Sergue 88 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Lalande de Pomerol
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: An unknown Chateau for me and not an overly positive first meeting. One of the roughly half dozen right bank wines in the tasting which is already on a decline with slightly drying tannins and maggi/soy sauce notes. Underlying there is good bright red fruit and herbs, harmonious and balanced but monolithic and slightly too ripe and with some alcohol notes showing.
Decanting: One or the other hour to blow of some unwanted notes but be careful, already on the decline, hence, could be fragile.
Group average: 90.3
Group rank: number 54 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Moulin Haut-Laroque 88 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Fronsac
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Complete fail and one of the worst wines in the tasting for me and the group. No bouquet, astringent, drying and alcoholic on the palate. Nothing positive to report here.
Decanting: I would try a long decant but not sure that it will make the experience much better.
Group average: 88.8
Group rank: number 58 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Léoville Barton 92 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, St. Julien
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Quite typical St. Julien and Leoville Barton with lots of blue forest berries, black fruit, aristocratic, masculine with still some edges but a good freshness. This will need at least 5 or rather 10 more years to become fully expressive, round and soft but you can sense the underlying beauty.
Decanting: If you open a bottle today, give it at least 6 hours in the decanter.
Group average: 92.3
Group rank: number 36 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Léoville Las Cases 91 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, St. Julien
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Surprisingly, this was the weakest St. Julien in the lineup. Rather muted and simple on the nose and palate with forest berries, rhubarb and some rather surprising red fruit notes on the palate. Still some hard edges but a very good freshness. In the best moments it was already harmonious but most of the time not yet balanced. Although, this doesn‘t shine today I think it can become a great wine with a broader aromatic spectrum than most other St. Juliens. This just needs at least 10 more years in the cellar.
Decanting: If you open a bottle today, give it at least 10 hours in the decanter.
Group average: 91.6
Group rank: number 43 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Léoville Poyferré 92 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, St. Julien
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Muted nose, not showing much. Dark, dense, ripe on the palate, not as aristocratic as the other St. Juliens, much more concentrated and even slightly alcoholic. The odd-one out but with nice fruit and mineral notes, medium+ precision and good length. My guess is that with a lot of air this could be already open for business.
Decanting: Give it at least 6 hours in the decanter.
Group average: 91.0
Group rank: number 47 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Saint-Pierre 93 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, St. Julien
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: A nose full of herbs, crushed rocks and slight coffee notes missing just the fruit aspect but otherwise shining with intensity and precision. Already quite soft and nice on the palate with a rather feminine profile for a St. Julien with red fruit and floral notes mixing with the more typical herbal and mineral aspects. Not hyper complex but with good precision and a fine structure with good freshness and no alcohol showing. This can easily become a great wine.
Decanting: Was good without the decant but I guess this can reach 95+ points with 4-6 hours in the decanter.
Group average: 93.2
Group rank: number 29 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou 95 Points
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, St. Julien
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Without doubt the best St. Julien of 2010. Despite being young it showed very layered with lots of mineral notes, pine tree, coffee, luxurious fresh but sexy blue and black berries and even some hints of red berries. The intensity is very good, the precision is off the charts. Pleasant on the nose and palate. The structure is impeccable with lots of very fine tannins and a good freshness. Harmonious and with a good length. 95 today, but at the right time, this can easily reach the 97+ point category.
Decanting: Good from the go, but 4+ hours of decanting won‘t hurt.
Group average: 94.4
Group rank: number 17 out of 61 wines
(shared with Fleur Petrus, D’Issan)
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2010 Château Le Dome 92 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, St. Émilion Grand Cru
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Medium- expressive nose displaying pine needles, herbs, crushed rocks and red fruit. Quite round on the palate but edgy and sadly slightly drying tannins, good freshness and red fruit and herbs. Less expressive, medium- intensity and medium precision. You can sense that this wine has more in store. As it is quite unique, I wish to try it soon with a proper decant. Not sure if this deserves the perfect score from Parker, though.
Decanting: This needs at least 4 hours in the decanter.
Group average: 93.6
Group rank: number 24 out of 61 wines
(shared with Haut Brion, Lafite)
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2010 Château Beausejour (Duffau Lagarrosse) 84 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, St. Émilion Grand Cru
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: When revealed, this was a big disappointment as this bottle showed strong signs of oxidation, soy sauce with little other expression. Disjointed. Could it be a just a bad bottle? Very unlikely. Check out the 10 years on tastings the critics did: Neal Martin/Vinous had two bottles at two tastings, both over the hill. Lisa Perotti Brown/WA had one and it was over the hill too. This vintage of this wine has obviously a serious problem. Weakest group rank beside the corked Larrivet Haut Brion.
Group average: 86.7
Group rank: number 60 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Troplong Mondot 92 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, St. Émilion Grand Cru
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: With a bit of swirling and time in the glass, the wine opened-up showing red and dark fruits, crushed rocks and minerality. Not overly complex but with good precision. Seemed not ready with a good, light texture but still slightly furry tannins and a very high acidity. Paled a bit in comparison to all the heavyweights on the right bank in terms of complexity.
Decanting: This needs at least 3-4 hours in the decanter, in my opinion.
Group average: 93.8
Group rank: number 23 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Pavie 93 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, St. Émilion Grand Cru
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: One of the most new-worldish right bank wines. Very dense, ripe dark berries, sweet red berries, with chocolate notes. Very fine tannins, good freshness, high concentration, good length. The others liked it a tad more than I did. Not that it would have been faulty in any way, complexity, structure, length - everything is fine, but it‘s just not really my style. 93 points in this tasting with 95 points potential.
Decanting: This probably needs just a short 2 hours decant.
Group average: 94.6
Group rank: number 16 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Cheval Blanc 96 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, St. Émilion Grand Cru
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: One of the winners of the tasting thanks to a very high complexity with lots of pure, ripe red fruit, nutty notes, burnt sugar, coffee and a nice minerality. A slightly more communicative bottle than the one I‘ve had 10 months ago. Impeccable structure with very fine tannins, superb freshness and luxurious texture. Very good length. This is currently not as open and expressive as the 2009 but it is definitely a great wine which provides a lot of pleasure to drink and will do so for many years to come. I guess in the long run it could outshine the 2009 as it could age more gracefully.
Decanting: I would suggest to decant it for at least 3-4 hours.
Group average: 96.0
Group rank: number 5 out of 61 wines
(shared with Latour, Clos Manou)
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2010 Château Ausone 89 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, St. Émilion Grand Cru
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: This was quite disappointing as it showed some signs of oxidation and couldn‘t mask the alcohol completly. Underneath there is a very fine, round, fresh wine with lots of fine red fruit, herbs and earthy tones. Good precision and good length but overall still disappointing. Also for the group certainly punching below its class.
Decanting: I would go for a 3-4 hours decant at least.
Group average: 91.8
Group rank: number 40 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Angélus 92 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, St. Émilion Grand Cru
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: This was one of the winners of the tasting for the group but I found it quite closed. If I would rate it solely on the potential, the score would be clearly higher as you could sense that the wine has much more in store. But here it showed closed and dense without the complexity and precision of the best wines.
Decanting: I would decant it at least for 6 hours.
Group average: 95.4
Group rank: number 9 out of 61 wines
(shared rank with Lafleur)
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2010 Château Trotanoy 93 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Pomerol
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: I adore the softness and weightlessness of the Trotanoys and this 2010 is no exception. It‘s unbelievably soft with ultra-fine tannins, a high but perfectly integrated acidity and superbly fresh fruit aromas along some herbs and earthy tones. Not more than 93 points in this tasting as it didn‘t show that complex today and only with medium length but with some more time and/or a decent decant, this could easily gain a few extra points.
Decanting: I would decant at least for 3-4 hours.
Group average: 94.0
Group rank: number 20 out of 61 wines
(shared with Calon Segur, Petrus)
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2010 Pétrus 95 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Pomerol
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Most in the room found it rather disappointing but I spend more time with the wine and did a lot of swirling which opened the wine and revealed one of the most singular and complex wines of the vintage (along with Mouton, Margaux, Cheval Blanc and VCC). Very complex bouquet and palate with lots of minerality, fresh herbs, a broad array of dark and red berries, fresh fir tips. What is missing right now compared to the best wines of this vintage is not only that the wine isn‘t open yet but that it misses a sexy, sweet component. Impeccable structure and length.
Decanting: I would decant it for at least 6 hours.
Group average: 94.0
Group rank: number 20 out of 61 wines
(shared with Calon Segur, Trotanoy)
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2010 Château Lafleur 96 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Pomerol
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: One of the best wines of the vintage, unquestionably. Instantly recognizable thanks to absolute weightlessness and one of the purest fruit expression Bordeaux has to offer. While the nose was rather muted, thee palate showed the purest, sweet red fruit, lots of herbs and terroir expression with earthy tones and minerality. The finnest tannins out there, high but not noticeable acidity, great length and superb balance and harmony. It could have been one of the top 3 wines if it wouldn‘t be for the nose that was quite unspectacular.
Decanting: I would decant it for at least 3-4 hours.
Group average: 95.4
Group rank: number 9 out of 61 wines
(shared rank with Angelus)
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2010 Château Le Pin 96 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Pomerol
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: One of the winners of the vintage. Very complex bouquet and palate with superbly well-defined aromas of red and lots of darker fruit, nutty aromas, smoke and earthy tones all embedded in a ultra-fine tannin structure with great freshness, wonderful harmony and balance and very good length. The complete package missing one or the other extra layers the best wines (Mouton, Margaux) had and a touch of sexiness. With a proper decant or some more time in the cellar, this could easily get to the 98-100 point category.
Decanting: I would decant it for at least 4 hours.
Group average: 97.8
Group rank: number 3 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château La Conseillante 95 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Pomerol
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: While Petrus or Le Pin are both more intellectual wines today, Conseillante is all about hedonism and sexy, sweet fruit and all that without being too dense, or slutty. This is a very sensous wine with lots of different, soft, ripe red berries, lots of herbs and some hints of minerality. Not the most complex wine today but with great precision and a super fine structure without any excess weight and a very good freshness. This is a fantastic wine and I guess it could rival the 2005 once all the teritary aromas kick-in.
Decanting: No extensive decant needed, 1-2 hours should be enough, but better wait a few more years.
Group average: 95.2
Group rank: number 11 out of 61 wines
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2010 Vieux Château Certan 97 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Pomerol
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: One of the winners of the retrospective thanks to an unbelievable weightlessness, super-soft structure combined with great purity and a broad aromatic spectrum delivered in HD. This was instantly recognizable thanks to the bright, ripe, sweet but still fresh red fruit in combination with a spiciness no other right bank shows, in addition some dark red cherries, some blue fruit hints, lots of herbs and crushed rocks. Expressive on the nose and palate. Impeccable structure, great balance and harmony. Some points deducted for the only medium length. Alcohol not noticeable. Great.
Decanting: I guess with a short decant of 2 hours this is ready to go.
Group average: 97.2
Group rank: number 4 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château L'Eglise-Clinet 97 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Pomerol
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: This is a charmer and another strong showing from Pomerol. On the nose the earthy, mineral notes dominate with some floral and red fruits mixing in. A very broad array of very well-defined aromas on the palate with a lot of red fruit, floral notes, hints of black fruits, spices, minerality, some smoke. Very fine tannin structure, perfectly integrated acidity, and one of the longest finishes with so much impressive pressure. This has it all. I deduct one or the other point as it was slightly too sweet for my taste but this won’t be a problem that persists when the tertiary development kicks-in. A bright future.
Decanting: I guess with a short decant of 2 hours this is ready to go.
Group average: 95.8
Group rank: number 8 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château L'Evangile 94 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Pomerol
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Fresh herbs, sweet (in one or the other moment slightly too sweet) red fruits, floral notes, spices, tobacco - this is broadly layered on the nose and palate. The precision is very high. A wall of fine tannins and good freshness but compared to the other Pomerols, this seemed a bit too fat and dense. This is still a great wine which will be much better once it fleshes out with more age. But definitely no harm in opening a bottle right now.
Decanting: I would decant it for at least 4 hours.
Group average: 92.3
Group rank: number 36 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Pavie Macquin 90 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, St. Émilion Grand Cru
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: The highlight here was the soft structure with a potpourri of red fruits on the palate but I found it a) rather simple, b) slightly too ripe and it c) couldn’t mask the alcohol completely. This winery seems to be on a great run in more recent vintages but in 2010 they produced rather one of the weaker right banks.
Decanting: My guess is a short decant of 2 hours will do the job.
Group average: 90.3
Group rank: number 54 out of 61 wines
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2010 Clos Fourtet 92 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, St. Émilion Grand Cru
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: The nose shows medium+ expressive with overripe red and darker fruits. On the palate much more interesting with finer and fresher red fruits, sweet but not too sweet and well balanced by a strong herbal component. Medium- complexity, medium precision, fine structure, good freshness, medium- length. This is certainly a good wine, even though it doesn’t have the complexity of the very best ones.
Decanting: My guess is a short decant of 2 hours will do the job.
Group average: 92.4
Group rank: number 33 out of 61 wines
(shared with Cos d’Estournel, Rauzan Segla, Grand Puy Lacoste)
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2010 Château Grand-Pontet 86 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, St. Émilion Grand Cru
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: This is on a downhill path with a lot of oxidation notes which mask the sweet red fruit underneath and a structure that is quite soft. It’s not yet completely over but not much time left here, in my opinion.
Decanting: Probably one hour in the decanter can blow some of the oxidation notes off but I wouldn’t be sure and the wine could even collapse.
Group average: 91.4
Group rank: number 44 out of 61 wines
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2010 La Mondotte 89 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, St. Émilion Grand Cru
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: This is my first time trying a wine of this Chateau and sadly, this is another right bank, which already shows notes of premature oxidation, especially on the nose. The palate shows very well-defined sweet red fruit but isn’t as soft and polished as many other right banks. All in all, rather a disappointing showing.
Decanting: A short one or two hour decant in hope of a better showing?
Group average: 90.4
Group rank: number 52 out of 61 wines
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2010 Château Brande-Bergere Cuvée O'Byrne 87 Points
France, Bordeaux, Bordeaux Supérieur
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Nice red fruits, medium concentration but one of the weakest wines on the right bank as it shows very astringent and slightly disjointed.
Decanting: Maybe a long decant could improve the experience here (4h?).
Group average: 90.6
Group rank: number 49 out of 61 wines
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2010 Clos Puy Arnaud 91 Points
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux
Bordeaux 2010 after 10 years. 61 reds, mostly big names, tasted blind. Average score 92.1 and lower than the more open and charming 2009 vintage last year (93.4). A few observations: A) It’s not yet the harmonious, complex, classic, clean vintage. Especially the masculine appellations of the left bank need at least 5 more years to just open up, potentially longer to soften. B) Left bank trumps right bank thanks to less detectable alcohol, cleaner lines and the two best wines of the vintage (Mouton, Margaux). C) Pomerol shines bright with many strong wines which can all mask the high alcohol levels (best AOC slightly ahead of Pauillac). D) As in 2009, there are several right banks already past peak, incl. big names (Duffau Lagarosse, Ausone). All in all, 2010 is a very good vintage with pockets of greatness but today 2009 shows more open and hence complex. More information, top and worst 10 list, appellation rankings from five participants in the story link.
TN: Probably the sweetest fruit with a bright but sirup like fruit expression, quite singular but masking all the other nuances which might be there. Soft structure, good freshness, medium- length.
Decanting: I would decant it for at least 2 hours.
Group average: 90.8
Group rank: number 48 out of 61 wines
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