2010 le Gay

The 2010 Le Gay has a fabulous concentrated bouquet with black plum, brambly red fruit, orange pith and light black truffle aromas, complex and among the finest that you will find in the appellation. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannin, an equal measure of red and black fruit laced with white pepper, Chinese 5-spice and bay leaf. Very cohesive, this fans out wonderfully on the finish and retains impressive delineation from start to finish. One of the best wines from Le Gay in recent years though my score implies it may be amidst a dumb phase. Tasted at the BI Wines & Spirits 10-Year On tasting.

Deep garnet colored, the 2010 Le Gay rolls out of the glass with notes of dried mulberries, prunes and figs plus nuances of cedar chest, bay leaves and crushed rocks. Medium to full-bodied, the palate gives just enough maturing fruit flavors to match the sturdy frame, finishing on a stewed tea note.

Tasted blind. Very dark garnet. Ripe and minty with cassis and prunes. Smooth tannins but a little bit tired on the palate. Good acidity but the stewed flavour detracts from the overall freshness. Drying tannins. (JH)