2009 Labadie

From the northern end of the Medoc, this blend of 52% Merlot and the rest mostly Cabernet Sauvignon is another fruit-driven, front end-loaded wine with lots of black cherry and black currant fruit. Medium to full-bodied, its damp earth, licorice and spice box notes make for a classic Medoc, although it is lower in acidity than most vintages and has riper fruit. This wine should drink nicely for 7-8 years. (A member of the Association of Crus Bourgeois du Medoc.)

52% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot. Perfumed dark fruit with a touch of cedar and spice. Quite fragrant. Dry, firm and refined. Tannins are dry but not drying. Sustained and shows attractive restraint. (JH)

Deep and rich purple. Plump and spicy but with great density from near Begadan and run by the Bibey family who run it pretty much like a cru classe. Really very winning. Lots of ripe sweetness but real structure too. Could be quite a good buy... (JR)