2009 Petit Bocq

Another sleeper of the vintage in this magical year, this sexy, fat, luscious St.-Estephe is a blend of 50% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon. Rich and succulent, with loads of black fruit intermixed with licorice and incense, this wine is very low in acidity and has very ripe tannins. It should drink nicely for up to a decade. (A member of the Association of Crus Bourgeois du Medoc.)

49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 50% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc. Deep crimson. Evolved toasty nose. Lots of flattering fruit on the palate. Then pretty astringent and drying on the finish. A very modern St-Estèphe – makes an impression but more of the winery than the vineyard. (JR)

Dark purple. Very determinedly modern it seems to me. Tastes purple and rather sweet. Glamorous but I could have done with just a tad more freshness. Perhaps I am being a Grumpy Old Woman? Slightly drying finish. (JR)