2006 Dauzac

Tasted at the vertical retrospective at the property. The 2006 Château Dauzac, a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, appears to have reached full maturity on the nose, although there is abundant blackberry and mulberry fruit to suggest that it will keep for many years. The palate is medium-bodied, a little rustic on the entry with touches of bay leaf and tea leaf. There is a touch of dryness that is creeping in towards the finish when I was hoping for more fleshiness to show, which makes me think that it has longevity than I anticipated from barrel. Tasted June 2015.

Full ruby-red. High-pitched aromas of blackberry, espresso, licorice and mint. Silky and fine-grained, with a juicy quality to the dark fruit, truffle and smoke flavors. Spreads out nicely on the finish, displaying firm but sweet tannins and nice length. A good showing.

Solid nose. Rather loose and almost soft on the palate could actually do with a bit more acid (!) and lift. (JR)