Left Bank Wines
ChÂteau ANGLUDET 2010, MARGAUX
Château Angludet was one of our most popular wines En Primeur last year—we sold out in less than a week. Bought by the Sichel family 50 years ago Angludet is now probably the best Cru Bourgeois estate in Margaux, regularly producing wines of grand cru classé quality. The 2010 is a superb example—great concentration, chewy tannins and that lovely Margaux elegance. Drink: 2011—2026.
"Exceptionally dark. Sweet liquorice notes—very pronounced! Smooth and polished with lots of tannin underneath. Some floral notes too. Cool, dry finish. Very interesting, well-mannered wine. Just a very slight lack of freshness but really that is nit-picking."—Jancis Robinson 17
"The dark plum/purple-hued 2010 d'Angludet is unquestionably a sleeper of the vintage. Sweet licorice-infused black currant and smoke aromas emerge from this heady, ripe, well-endowed cuvee. Sweet tannin, lush fruit and loads of glycerin suggest this lovely Margaux will drink well during its first 12-15 years of life."—Robert Parker 89-91
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £249.00 (In Bond)
150cl Magnums, Case of 6: £249.00 (In Bond)
1 Double Magnum Bottle, in Wooden Case: £112.00 (In Bond)
1 Imperial Bottle, in Wooden Case: £205.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Beaumont 2010, Haut-MÉdoc
Beaumont, owned by the same company who run Beychevelle, has overachieved once again to produce a splendid 2010—excellent plummy sweet fruit with good concentration, balance and complexity. A very attractive wine and, at under £100 a case, one of the 'must buys' in 2010.
"Distinctive autumnal notes on the nose. Fresh and vital and relatively lightweight but very serious. Round and polished on the palate. Full of appeal and with just a bit of leafiness to stop it being sickly. Lots of pure pleasure and confident attack here. Appetising. Sinewy."—Jancis Robinson 16.5
"Solid core of ripe fruit, with toasted oak and chocolate character. Full and chewy."—James Suckling 89-90
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £98.00 (In Bond)
150cl Magnums, Case of 6: £98.00 (In Bond)
1 Double Magnum Bottle, in Wooden Case: £65.00 (In Bond)
1 Imperial Bottle, in Wooden Case: £110.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Cantemerle 5Ème Cru ClassÉ 2010, Haut-MÉdoc
Cantemerle is now one of the best value classed growths. It also punches well above its weight qualitatively and many people, including Robert Parker, now believe it should be upgraded from its Fifth Growth Status.
One of the affordable 2010s we should all have in our cellars.
"A quintessentially elegant style of Bordeaux, the opaque ruby/purple-tinged 2010 Cantemerle possesses elegant floral notes intermixed with hints of blueberries, raspberries, sweet red cherries and currants. Medium-bodied with impressive purity, concentration and texture, it is not a heavyweight, but rather a well-proportioned, stylish red that should drink nicely for 15-20 years." 91-93 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
"Finely expressed, deep but lifted and potentially complex fruit, refreshing acidity and firmness to add length to its habitual charm. (17 points)"—Decanter Magazine, 17 points
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £247.00 (In Bond)
1 Double Magnum Bottle, in Wooden Case: £120.00 (In Bond)
1 Imperial Bottle, in Wooden Case: £220.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Cantenac-Brown 3eme Cru ClassÉ Margaux 2010
This unusual mock-tudor estate has become a fantastic source of good value, top quality Margaux. This 3rd growth, which used to be part of the AXA wine empire (Suduiraut, Pichon Baron etc), produces very classic Margaux wines—perfumed, elegant and silky. 2010 is perhaps their best ever.
"2010: One of the finest Cantenac Browns made in the last half century, the 2010 may be even more impressive than the 2009. Sweet, fat notes of blackberries, forest floor and earth emerge from this inky/purple-colored beauty. The tannins are slightly more serious and elevated than in the 2009, but the big, bold, full-bodied 2010 represents a remarkable turn around for this estate, which has now produced three straight top-flight vintages. It should drink well for 25-35 years." —Robert Parker 92-94+
"Chewy and structured, with ripe fruit and ripe tannins. Tar and dark fruit character. Full body. Super polished. Very Cantenac-Brown in personality. Best in a long time from here."—James Suckling 94-95
75cl Bottles, Case of 6: £216.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Capbern-Gasqueton, St-EstÈphe 2010
Capbern-Gasqueton is owned and run by 3rd Growth Calon-Segur, “the Lafite of St-Estephe.” Their 2009 was one of Jancis Robinson’s picks of the vintage and this, only their second vintage to be released en primeur, looks like being even better. This Cru Bourgeois estate is definitely one to follow—it has already established itself as a strictly ‘on allocation only’ wine. Great value for a lovely St-Estephe.
"Composed of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon and 27% Merlot, this is one of the Gasqueton family’s finest efforts to date (although the 2009 was also very good). The dark ruby/purple-tinged 2010 exhibits plenty of delicious red and blackberry fruit, medium body and more size and substance than most past vintages. It should drink well for a decade or more." —Robert Parker 87-89
"Only the second year this wine has been offered en primeur. A separate, very varied plot in which 26 of 37 ha have been planted. Mainly Cabernet Sauvignon but 30% Merlot, especially on a parcel of high limestone. In 2010 they built a new cuvier to improve Capbern in which each plot can be vinified separately. Lively deep crimson. Oddly, this seems fuller and sweeter than the 2009 – very punchy. Firm then furry tannins on the end and a big core of ripe fruit in the middle. Quite open and developed without that much acidity. He says he has already added 10% press wine."—Jancis Robinson 16.5 points
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £139.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Caronne-Ste. Gemme 2010, Haut-MÉdoc
This perennial favourite of British claret drinkers has over-performed again. Situated very close to St-Julien this Cru Bourgeois estate has a reputation for producing very classic, smokey Claret which can be drunk after about 5 years. The 2010 is no exception—delicious concentrated wine with lots of flavour that should provide lovely early drinking. Great value, as ever. Drink 2014-22.
"Dark purplish crimson. Very luscious nose with lots of interest. Spicy with some top-quality tonnelier interest here. Lovely polish and structure. Long and refined. More St-Julien than St-Laurent. More flesh than usual." 16.5/20 —Jancis Robinson MW
"Quite smoky blackcurrant fruit, impressive depth of flavours and grip as well, length and potential complexity."—Decanter Magazine, 16.5 points
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £107.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Chasse-Spleen, Moulis 2010
Along with Château Poujeaux this is the leading estate in Moulis, and, before the classification was annulled, it was a Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel. A degree of myth surrounds the unusual name: some attribute it to a comment Lord Byron made when visiting the Château whilst others think it was named after Baudelaire’s poem Spleen. The wines are typically full-bodied, concentrated with lots of fruit and a good dark colour. They also age very well.
"Beautifully extracted cassis fruit, already showing complexity, tightly-knit and will age well. Drink 2015-25."—Decanter Magazine, 17 points
"A strong effort, the tannic, medium to full-bodied 2010 possesses good minerality, zesty acidity, admirable freshness and both blue and black fruits. With impressive depth and length, this pure Moulis should drink well for 15+ years."—Robert Parker 88-90
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £215.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau ClÉment-Pichon 2010, Haut-MÉdoc NEW–LIMITED QUANTITIES
High class, classic Cru Bourgeois claret made on fine Haut Medoc gravel soil. Clement Pichon is owned by Clement Fayat whilst the winemaking is done by Jean-Luc Thunevin, one of the stars of Bordeaux, who produces the most famous of all garage wines, Valandraud (around £250 a bottle). 2010 is one of the very best wines from this estate.
"The 2010 Clement Pichon exhibits lots of cedary, herbal notes intermixed with copious quantities of black currant fruit. Medium to full-bodied, lush and opulent, it is one of the finest wines I have tasted from this estate. Drink it over the next decade."—Robert Parker 89/91
"Good blackcurrant fruit, nice middle ripeness, classy firm finish. Drink 2014-18."—Decanter Magazine, 16 points
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £130.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Coufran 2010, Haut-MÉdoc
The northernmost estate in the Haut-Médoc, Coufran is owned by part of the Miaihle family, one of Bordeaux’s best know dynasties, who also own Chateaux Pichon-Lalande, Citran, Siran and Verdignan. Coufran produces wines with a higher merlot content than most left bank wines hence its nickname, the ‘Pomerol of the Médoc.'
"Another potential sleeper of the vintage and one of the best Coufrans I have tasted in many years, the 2010 is a plump, fleshy, chewy effort (there is always a lot of Merlot in this blend) revealing a deep plum/ruby/purple color as well as sweet black cherry and mocha notes interwoven with background oak. The wine’s enticing texture, purity and opulence suggest consumption over the next 10-12 years will be warranted."—Robert Parker 87-90. Drink 2013-2023.
"Deeply-extracted cassis fruit with a depth and complexity above some of its peers, fine northern Médoc with a good future. Drink 2016-25."—Decanter Magazine, 16 points
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £127.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau D’ Issan, Margaux 3eme Cru ClassÉ 2010
Château D’Issan has an impressive history: it's wine was served at the wedding of Eleanor of Aquitaine, it was commended for the cellars of the Prince of Wales in 1723 and it was the favourite at the court of Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria. It is now consistently one of the star estates in Margaux, and the 2010 is undoubtedly one of their best wines in decades. An amazing 94-96 points from Robert Parker, and the cheapest of his “Wines of the vintage.”
"2010: Emmanuel Cruse has done a superb job at this moated castle on the southern approach to the appellation of Margaux. The dense blue/purple-tinged 2010 reveals notes of violets, blue and black fruits, a striking minerality, excellent purity, texture and length, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel and noticeable but sweet, well-integrated tannins. It should drink well in 5-6 years and last 25-35."—Robert Parker 94-96
"Starts off elegant and balanced, with blueberry and floral character. Full and silky. But turns chewy and mouth puckering. Very extracted. But will turn out really outstanding. Best from here in decades."—James Suckling 93-94
75cl Bottles, Case of 6: £282.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau DU TERTRE, 5Ème CRU ClassÉ, MARGAUX 2010
A Margaux 5th Growth than counts Cantenac-Brown and Giscours amongst its neighbours. This 12th Century estate, one of the oldest in Medoc, has been reinvigorated since it was bought Eric Jelgersma in 1997 and its last two vintages have been superb. This is lovely merlot dominated Margaux: deep purple colour with lovely floral finesse.
"Blueish purple. Very ripe and concentrated with lots of acidity though perhaps not the absolute freshness of fruit that there is on some other Margaux 2010s. Dramatic wine!"—Jancis Robinson MW 16.5
"Beautifully balanced Cabernet fruit, florality, ripeness and good firm length all in perfect balance. Drink 2017-30."—Decanter Magazine, 17 points
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £279.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Fourcas Dupre, Listrac-MÉdoc 2010
Almost certainly the finest wine ever made by Fourcas Dupre - situated between Moulis and Saint Julien, Listrac is often called "the roof of the Médoc". This relative height and the unusual soil mixture of gravel, clay and limestone give the wines from Fourcas Dupre a distinct character: mineral, complex, touches of smoke and an ability to age remarkably well. Drink 2014-26.
"Extremely rich on the nose then gorgeously smooth and polished but with freshness. Almost Margaux-like with a 2010 density. Very impressive at this stage...Certainly better than any wine from this property that I can remember."—Jancis Robinson 16.5/20
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £107.00 (In Bond)
“2010 looks like it will give ‘09 a run for its money qualitatively.”—Wine Spectator
ChÂteau Fourcas Hosten, Listrac-MÉdoc 2010
An elegant Chartreuse-style Château owned by Laurent and Renaud Momméja, the brothers behind the fashion label Hermès. Fourcas Hosten is arguably the most highly regarded estate in the Listrac and in 2010 it has perhaps produced its best ever wine- intense, floral and with lots of dark fruit. Drink 2015-2030.
"Excellent intensity here, with spice, dark fruits and roasted coffee. Full and velvety. Long finish. Best ever?"—James Suckling 91-92
"Blueish tinge. Amazingly intense. Lifted and perfumed. Something a bit floral on the nose. Lots of zest and great structure plus masses of ripe fruit. More embryonic than some. Dry finish. Lots in reserve here. Lovely youthful wine. Real freshness."—Jancis Robinson 17/20
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £124.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Gloria, St-Julien 2010 SOLD OUT
Gloria is something of an anomaly. It didn’t exist at the time of the 1855 Classification and was in fact created in the first half of the 20th Century by Henri Martin from plots of vineyard bought from the best St Julien Chateaux: Léoville-Poyferré, Gruaud-Larose, Léoville-Barton, Lagrange and Ducru-Beaucaillou. The wine is now considered to be easily of Classed Growth quality and represents great value for money. The estate is also on a role: both 2010 and 2009 have been exceptional, with the 2010 just edging out in front.
"2010: A sensational effort, the 2010 Gloria may turn out to be the finest wine they have made since 1982, although the 2009 is a serious contender for that honor as well. A bigger than life as well as more backward than normal offering, the 2010 exhibits an inky/purple color along with an opulent display of black currants, jammy cherries, licorice, cedar and roasted herbs. Some serious tannin gives the wine grip, but this is a full-bodied, big, thick, well-proportioned, super-endowed Gloria that will benefit from 2-3 years of cellaring and keep for two decades."—Robert Parker 91-93
"Dark and rich and very upright. Beautifully balanced, dry and cool without being austere of drying. The fruit is succulent and yet the framework is there. Very luscious indeed but very 2010. Very firm mineral finish. Long. Bravo!"—Jancis Robinson 17.5/20
ChÂteau Gruaud-Larose 2eme Cru ClassÉ St-Julien 2010 SOLD OUT
One of the ‘Super-Seconds’ (the best of the Second Growths). It is always classic in style and has a loyal & passionate following in Britain. Their 1990 was felt to be one of the great wines of that vintage—many people, including us, think this may well have surpassed it in 2010.
"2010: This gets my nod as the finest Gruaud Larose since the 2000 and 1990. The opaque purple-colored 2010 exhibits copious notes of Asian plum sauce, spice box, creme de cassis, loamy soil and a beefy/meaty character. It is full-bodied, dense and powerful, with stunning purity and no evidence of brett (a characteristic of the great Gruaud Larose wines made in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s). Given the 2010's tannin profile, it will require 5-8 years of cellaring and should keep for three decades thereafter."—Robert Parker 92-94
"Offers a serious core of kirsch, blackberry and plum sauce notes, with lovely, velvety tannins taking over the pure, violet-tinged finish, which has length and grace. Shows more elegance than most of its peers in this vintage."—James Martin, Wine Spectator, 93-96
ChÂteau Haut-Bages-LibÉral, 5eme Cru ClassÉ Pauillac 2010
With the same owners as Cos d’Estournel this is a top 5th Growth estate. Its vineyards are in the prime area of Pauillac, bordering Latour and the two Pichons. 2010 is one of their best wines in a very long time with lovely classic Pauillac flavours and should last for many years.
"The finest Haut-Bages-Liberal I have tasted in many years, this sleeper of the vintage exhibits a blue/purple hue as well as projected aromatics of blue and black fruits, spring flowers and subtle background oak. Full-bodied with moderately high tannins, a layered mouthfeel and a long finish, it should be at its best between 2017 and 2035."—Robert Parker 91-93+
"Well-extracted ripe cassis fruit both briary and rich, good fragrance and purity, structure and length, right up with its 5th growth peers."—Steven Spurrier, Decanter Magazine 17/20
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £324.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Haut-Batailley 5eme Cru ClassÉ Pauillac 2010
Owned by the Borie family (Grand Puy Lacoste), this excellent Pauillac 5th Growth is always good value for money and in 2010 it is especially so. Lovely structure, fruit and should drink very well for at least another 15 years.
"This is ripe, with a lovely beam of cassis and blackberry well-harnessed by seamless acidity. The rounded, enticing finish has a dash of toasty vanilla that's well-embedded."—James Martin, Wine Spectator, 90-93
"An impressive intensity of fruit here, with blueberries and lemon character. Full and very well-integrated, with ultra-fine tannins and a long, long finish. Better than 2000?"—James Suckling 92-93
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £325.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau La Fleur Peyrabon Cru Bourgeois PauillaC 2010
Despite being situated between the heavyweights Lafite-Rothschild, Mouton-Rothschild and Pontet-Canet, this Cru Bourgeois Pauillac is always great value. It was also one of the very first wines we ever sold En Primeur. This is undoubtedly one of their very best ever wines and should provide lovely drinking in about 5 years time.
"Château La Fleur Peyrabon (Pauillac). Great, ripe black currant flavors are laced with delicious acidity. The wood element is important, but never too dominant. It has great potential."—Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, 93-95
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £179.00 (In Bond)
1 Double Magnum Bottle, in Wooden Case: £94.00 (In Bond)
1 Imperial Bottle, in Wooden Case: £165.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Lanessan, Haut-MÉdoc 2010
One of our Medoc favourites has produced another exceptional wine in 2010 – an old claret buyers' maxim ' buy the lesser wines in great years ' is more than appropriate here. Lanessan was a 4th Growth Claret up until the 1855 classification when Louis Delbos, the owner at the time, refused to submit the wine, dismissing the selection as 'bureaucratic nonsense'. Ever since it has been felt that this Château offers Cru Classé quality at a Cru Bourgeois price. Drink 2014-2020.
"Soft and silky, with lovely fruit and a long and caressing texture. Excellent core of fruit. Solid for the vintage. An excellent Lanessan"—James Suckling 91-92
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £117.50 (In Bond)
150cl Magnums, Case of 6: £117.50 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Langoa-Barton 3eme Cru ClassÉ St-Julien 2010
Langoa has been in the Barton family for almost 200 years and is now often the equal of the other Barton vineyard, Leoville. A 3rd Growth, Langoa is one of the very best estates in St-Julien. The 2010 vintage is superb- very refined, concentrated Claret that will last for decades.
"What a depth of fruit here, with dark chocolate and currants and blackberries. Full and velvety. Wonderful texture. Like it. Better than 2009."—James Suckling 93-94
"Tasted at the Château and twice at the UGC, the Langoa Barton has a very ripe, well-defined bouquet with dark berried fruits and just a hint of oyster shell. The palate is silky smooth, cashmere tannins, very pure with dark cherries a touch of cassis, very refined and composed, slips down the throat beautifully. So pure and beguiling, there is a crystalline quality to this Langoa that is utterly compelling. Drink 2018- Tasted April 2011."
— Neal Martin 92-94
75cl Bottles, Case of 6: £260.00 (In Bond)
Chateau La Tour Carnet 4eme Cru ClassÉ Haut-MÉdoc 2010
As wine journalist Chris Kissack says, “here is an estate that Bordeaux drinkers, rather than label drinkers, should know about.” As 4th Growths go, La Tour Carnet is relatively unknown. It does, however, produce excellent value and very serious left bank Claret. The last two owners, the Lipschitz family and the current owner, Bernard Magrez, have invested a lot of money and care and replanting many of the vineyards, restoring the Château and renovating the Chai. As a result the wines have been on steady upward curve and many feel the 2010 is its best to date.
"2010: From their 180 acres, this large estate fashioned a blend of 53% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon and small quantities of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Harvested over a three week period (September 29 – October 17), it is a big, tannic, nearly over-sized wine boasting a dense purple color along with notes of graphite, blueberries, black raspberries and spring flowers. Great fruit on the attack, a powerful, full-bodied mouthfeel and an unusually masculine, muscular style suggest this 2010 will require patience, but it could turn out to be one of the finest La Tour Carnets ever produced. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2045."—Robert Parker 92-94
"A wine with dark berry, licorice and tar character. Subtle and silky. Lovely polished tannins and fresh acidity."
—James Suckling 92-93
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £259.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Les Ormes de Pez 2010, St-EstÈphe
One of St Estèphe’s best Cru Bourgeois estates. Ormes de Pez is owned and run by Jean-Michel Cazes, who also runs Lynch-Bages. The 2009 vintage was a best-seller last year and we expect the 2010 to be even more popular—it’s a cracking wine with lots of fruit and great structure. It will however need several years in the cellar.
"Superb concentration of very ripe fruit, lots of richness and depth, will be very impressive. Drink 2016-28."
—Decanter, 17 points
"A wine with lots of flesh and chewy tannins. Full and round, with a lovely texture and finish. Long. These guys are on a roll here. Cazes family of Lynch-Bages. 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot." —James Suckling 92-93
"This dense purple-colored 2010 exhibits dark raspberry and blueberry fruit notes, less power and structure than it’s neighbor De Pez, but more finesse, elegance and fruit forwardness. This impressively endowed effort should drink nicely for 10-15 years." —Robert Parker 87-90
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £239.00 (In Bond)
Magnum Bottles, Case of 6: £239.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Lilian Ladouys 2010, St-EstÈphe
An extremely popular wine for us in 2009, Lilian Ladouys is owned by the owner of 5th Growth Pauillac, Chateau Pedesclaux, and managed by the same team as Gironville and Bell-Vue. The 2010 is a lovely, relatively forward St Estephe which should provide excellent drinking over the next 10 years.
"This is soft and velvety, with blueberry and blackberry aromas. Full body, with round tannins and a long finish. A rich and almost jammy wine. Plenty going on here! 2009 was excellent as well." —James Suckling 90-91
"Very good smoky cassis nose, lots of good fleshy, firm fruit, very good medium term. Drink 2014-20."
—Decanter Magazine, 16 points
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £129.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Peyrabon, Haut-MÉdoc Cru Bourgeois 2010
One of the very top Cru Bourgeois wines, which we have consistently listed and sold En Primeur. 2010 is perhaps its best wine to date. Château Peyrabon, owned by the Bernard family, is an example of how to make fabulous affordable Claret using great terroir and with the latest in modern technology. Drink 2014- 2024
"Thick and sweet and beguiling. Chewy start, may deliver. No customer could object since this is classic old-fashioned Claret." —Jancis Robinson MW 16/20
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £98.00 (In Bond)
1 Double Magnum Bottle, in Wooden Case: £65.00 (In Bond)
1 Imperial Bottle, in Wooden Case: £110.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau PhÉlan SÉgur, St-EstÈphe 2010
One of the best Cru Bourgeois estates in St-Estèphe and a property that has been on a steady rise ever since Xavier Gardinier (Pommery & Lanson) bought it in the mid-80s . Renowned winemaker, Michel Rolland, is consultant oenologist and helps produce consistent, well balanced wines with lots of good dark fruit, and hints of coffee and tobacco. The 2010 affirms Phélan Ségur’s reputation as a real over-performer.
"Dark crimson. Nicely, convincingly integrated. Lovely luscious, supple fruit. Really great supple stuff with the undertow of St-Estèphe minerality. A really exciting wine. Very long. 2020-35" —Jancis Robinson 18/20
"A blend of 41% Cabernet Sauvignon and 59% Merlot raised in 50% new oak, the nose takes its time to reveille in the glass. blackberry, small dark cherries, a touch of smoke and cigar box. Good definition but very tight. The palate is medium-bodied with powdery tannins, good definition but perhaps like Calon-Segur, a little disjointed at this stage. Good weight on the sinewy finish with dense black tarry fruits, quite uncompromising at the moment but that is not such a bad thing in the long term. The Phélan Ségur 2010 has good potential and may surprise in bottle just as the great 2005 is doing. Drink 2014-2025+. Tasted March 2011."
— Neal Martin 90-92
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £320.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Poujeaux, Moulis 2010
One of the top two estates in this Southern Médoc appellation and widely viewed as being one of the best value on the left bank. In the late 1970s Baron Rothschild famously mistook the 1953 vintage for his own Lafite. In 2009 Poujeaux produced one of its best, if not its best wine. Many feel 2010 is even better. This is a 2010 we should all buy.
"Tasted at the Cru Bourgeois primeur tasting. A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot, the Poujeaux 2010 has a crisp, well defined nose with fresh dark berried fruit, a touch of dark plum and a touch of Hoi Sin. Good definition and lift. The palate is medium-bodied with ripe, succulent tannins, quite modern in style but imbued with good tension and focus, this should be a little belter in bottle." —Neal Martin 91-93
"2010: An undeniable sleeper of the vintage, this may be the finest Poujeaux I have tasted in three decades. A crushed rock/mineral character is intertwined with abundant black currant, blackberry, incense and camphor notes in this full-bodied, unctuously textured, elegant, pure effort. It is capable of lasting 15 years. Kudos to new proprietor Philippe Cuvelier (also the owner of St.-Emilion’s Clos Fourtet) for resurrecting this well-known estate."—Robert Parker 90-92
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £210.00 (In Bond)
37.5cl Half Bottles, Case of 24: £222.00 (In Bond)
Magnum Bottles, Case of 6: £210.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Potensac, MÉdoc CRU BOURGEOIS 2010
A leading cru bourgeois estate in the very north of the Médoc that produces wines of consistently good value. Potensac really became established after Michel Delon (Léoville-Las-Cases) took over in the 1970s, and by 2003 it was classified as one of the nine Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnels. 2010 & 2009 represent two consecutive excellent vintages for this estate and should be in all our cellars.
"Traditionally made, yet exhibiting some modern touches such as ripe fruit, the 2010 Potensac is another sleeper of the vintage from this estate, owned by Jean-Hubert Delon, the proprietor of Leoville Las Cases. Classic Bordeaux notes of red and black currants, earth, and spice box are well-presented in this deep ruby/purple-colored, medium-bodied wine, which should drink nicely for a decade or more. A sleeper of a vintage." —Robert Parker 87-89
"Dense blackcurrant fruit, still backward, but much more class than its Médoc neighbours and a very good future. Drink 2015-25." —Decanter Magazine, 16.5 points
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £179.00 (In Bond)
Magnum Bottles, Case of 6: £179.00 (In Bond)
1 Double Magnum Bottle, in Wooden Case: £95.00 (In Bond)
1 Imperial Bottle, in Wooden Case: £170.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Senejac, Haut-MÉdoc 2010
One of the most famous Cru Bourgeois estates, situated near Margaux. The winemaking is now done by Alfred Tesseron and his team, who are responsible for bringing Pontet Canet such success over the last 15 years. Tesseron has transformed the vinification process, and in 2009 produced what was probably Senejac's best ever vintage bio-dynamically. With this excellent 2010 Senejac appears to be going from strength to strength.
"Dark crimson but not too blue. Quite rich and complete. Lovely texture and some real vitality. Great balance." —Jancis Robinson MW 16.5/20
"Deep, compact yet complex flavours, a very elegant southern Haut-Médoc with a good future. Drink 2014-22." —Decanter Magazine, 16.5 points
"Pontet-Canet’s brilliant proprietor, Alfred Tesseron, has begun to look after the wines of Senejac and the result is a tasty, elegant 2010 offering copious berry fruit notes intermixed with hints of cedarwood and spice. This cuvee should be drinkable upon release and evolve for a decade."—Robert Parker 87/90
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £109.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Sociando-Mallet, Haut-MÉdoc 2010
A Bordeaux estate that makes a mockery of the 1855 Classification, Château Sociando-Mallet has, over the last 20 years, consistently produced better wines than many of its classed growth neighbours. Interestingly owner Jean Gautreau believes his peer group contains Chateaux like Giscours—we think that he might be being modest. Not only is the 2010 considerably cheaper than the 2009 (£315) but Parker also rates it more highly.
"The classic 2010 displays everything one expects from this over-achieving Haut-Médoc. A dense purple color is followed by aromas of blueberries, black currants, graphite and crushed rocks, a layered, full-bodied mouthfeel, stunning concentration and sweet, more polished and refined tannins than are normally found in barrel samples of Sociando Mallet."—Robert Parker 91-93
"Great depth of fruit, deep ripeness and resonant flavours, fine texture and vigour, very good future. Drink 2015-25." —Decanter Magazine, 17 points
"Lively and racy and with more than a hint of young oak! Sweet start and very polished palate. Chewy finish but with lots and lots of sweet fruit. Well done! Quite luscious, very like a fine St-Estèphe." —Jancis Robinson MW 16.5
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £257.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Talbot 4eme Cru ClassÉ St-Julien 2010
A favourite, top notch claret with a really loyal British following. Named after the Earl of Shrewsbury who famously, unarmed, lost the Battle of Castillon in 1453, which ended the 100 years war and returned Bordeaux to the French after almost 350 years of British rule. This is very consistent, high quality St-Julien. Approachable and should be drinking early on. One of Talbot’s best wines in recent years.
"Dark crimson. Delightful, rather floral fragrance. Medium weight. Polished and fine. A really very winning wine with great balance even if it is not the most intense 2010. For relatively early drinking."—Jancis Robinson 17/20 points
"This super focused and firm, with a bright and intense fruit. Full and super silky, with a long, long finish. Super straight and beautiful. This is better in 2010." —James Suckling 92-93
75cl Bottles, Case of 6: £230.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Tour St Bonnet 2010, Haut-MÉdoc
From the northernmost point of the Haut Medoc Tour St Bonnet has always made reliable, classic claret at a very good price. The wines tend to be a little tough when young but after 3-4 years open up with lots of blackcurrant fruit and lovely tobacco notes. In 2010 Robert Parker has once again compared the wine to that of the famous Pauillac estate, Grand Puy Lacoste (about 10 times the price).
"Solid, well balanced, just very slightly tart but lots to get your teeth into here. Quite suave even if a bit lacking in charisma. Lots of mineral character." —Jancis Robinson 16/20
"A well-known, perennial sleeper of the vintage, Tour St.-Bonnet's wines are always well-made, under-valued and taste like a mini-version of the well-known Pauillac, Grand-Puy-Lacoste. The dark purple-colored 2010 offers copious amounts of blueberry and black currant fruit, a richly fruity mouthfeel, admirable texture and sweet tannin." —Robert Parker 87-88
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £80.00 (In Bond)
La GoulÉe, Haut-MÉdoc 2010
A very modern Claret produced with meticulous care by Cos d’Estournel, one of Bordeaux’s very best estates. Stylistically it differs greatly from its peers: much more fruit, body and concentration than a typical Medoc wine. Producer Jean-Guillaume Prats says "I want the consumer to be as confused as possible”. In 2010 Goulee has made probably it’s best wine to date.
"A sleeper of the vintage, this offering from the owners of Cos d’Estournel is a high quality, impeccably well-made Bordeaux displaying a dark ruby/purple hue along with notes of chocolate, black currants, herbs and spice. Opulent, round and full-bodied, it achieved 14.7% natural alcohol and should drink well for 7-8 years." —Robert Parker 90-92
"80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot. From the same three vineyard blocks as always but Jean-Guillaume Prats admitted that it has taken his team some time to fully understand how they react to different weather conditions. Very deep crimson purple. Attractive freshness on the nose. Round at first though quite sculpted later on the palate. Clean and fresh with no hint of overripeness. And only the tiniest hint of green. Dry finish—very complete and nicely done. Brisk and clean."
—Jancis Robinson MW 16.5
75cl Bottles, Case of 6: £89.50 (In Bond)
La Tour de By, St-EstÈphe 2010
Frederic le Clerc has almost certainly made the best La Tour de By to date, surpassing even his exceptional 2009. A classic wine of depth and concentration from his vineyards on high gravel out-crop just north of St Estèphe, where his cabernet (70%) dominates. This is what affordable great value claret in an exceptional year is all about. Drink 2015-2022.
"Very sweet, ripe black fruits on the nose. Solid, fruity, dense with gravelly chew. No artifice. Very nice expression of place and time. Some astringency, but real life and lift. A delicate hand! Transparency. Real delicacy. Very refreshing, with lovely length. But not nearly as concentrated as some. A good starting point for any student of Bordeaux? Even if very slightly austere."
—Jancis Robinson 16.5/20
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £112.00 (In Bond)
Marquis de Terme 4eme Cru ClassÉ Margaux 2010
A very underrated Margaux fourth growth, that recently has been producing superb wines. The 2009 was one of the best on our list last year and we think the 2010 is at least as good.
"A blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot and 1.5% Petit Verdot and 1.5% Cabernet Franc with a pH 3.65 (it was 3.75 in 2009.) The Cabernet Sauvignon dominates the nose more than any other vintage of Chateau Margaux that I have tasted out of barrel, lending it a Pauillac-like personality. Blackberry, graphite and a soupcon of liquorice. The tannins are exceptionally fine, real backbone here and a sense of ambition that I think neither the 2008 nor even the 2009 demonstrated. The clarity on the finish is truly outstanding and it seems to mellow and gain more sensuality with further aeration." —Neal Martin 92-94
"Very good depth of rich, slightly earthy fruit, ripeness of the Cabernet matched by a deep freshness of the tannins, always a broad-shouldered Margaux, good future. Drink 2016-30." —Decanter Magazine, 17 points
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £310.00 (In Bond)
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Right Bank Wines
ChÂteau Teyssier, St-Émilion 2010
Teyssier is owned and run by the dynamic Jonathan Maltus, producer of top St-Émilion wine Le Dome (£1,000 a case+). He is also helped with the winemaking by Gilles Pauquet, oenologist at Cheval Blanc, and the wine now has something of a cult following for being a really good Grand Cru that is consistently under £20 a bottle. We think this is Jonathan’s best ever Teyssier. Drink 2014—24.
"Very dark crimson. Exceptionally sweet with a sprinkle of sawdust on the end. Broad, chocolate-coated mulberries on the palate—so much sweeter than most! But in general there is good tannin management. Rather luscious." —Jancis Robinson MW 16.5
"A blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, the 2010 Teyssier has a dense purple color, a big, sweet kiss of black fruits, medium to full body, generous flesh and moderately sweet tannins as well as a hint of toasty oak. It should drink nicely for 7-10 years." —Robert Parker 89-91
ChÂteau D’Aiguilhe CÔtes de Castillon 2010
One of the best estates in the greatly underrated and undervalued Côtes de Castillon. Consistently produces full bodied, dense, fruit-driven wines at great prices. Stephane Derenoncourt (Clos Fourtet, Smith Haut-Lafite etc), who is felt by some to be the new Michel Rolland, is the winemaker. 2010 is certainly one of D’Aiguilhe’s best wines to date.
"This is so good already. What an amazing precision of fruit for this wine, with a blackberry and blueberry character as well as minerals. Full and super silky with lovely fruit. Gourmand. Tasty. I want to drink it. Always great value!"—James Suckling 92-93
"Dense and structured, with a slightly brooding feel to the coffee, dark plum and fig paste notes. But the flesh is round and supple, and the finish long and enticing, with a nice chalky streak waiting to emerge. Should come together well enough."—Wine Spectator, 90-93
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £184.00 (In Bond)
Domaine de L’A CÔtes de Castillon 2010 SOLD OUT
The home estate of Stephane Derenoncourt, one of Bordeaux’s most exciting and renowned winemakers. At Domaine de L’A Stephane makes merlot dominated wines from very low yielding vineyards on limestone soil. The result is a very floral, fruit packed right bank claret. This 2010 is probably the estate’s best ever wine.
"This 2010 may turn out to be one of the finest wines ever made at Domaine de l'A. Yields were remarkably small (20 hectoliters per hectare) and everything about this wine delivers more for the money than one would expect. Composed of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, this opaque purple-colored wine offers a wonderfully perfumed nose of plums, Asian spices, black currants and blackberries. Deep, medium to full-bodied, opulent and fleshy, this is hedonism at its finest. Moreover, it will last for a minimum of 7-8 years. A sleeper of the vintage."—Robert Parker 91-93
"Sumptuous nose. Pure fruit aromas and flavour. Caressing fruit on the palate. Tannins ripe and long. Drink 2015-2022."—Decanter Magazine, 17 points
ChÂteau de La Dauphine Fronsac 2010
Since the Halley family bought La Dauphine in 2001 this property has been on a steady rise, producing big juicy wines from 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. One of the best value wines we tasted in Bordeaux.
"This property, which has been on a qualitative roll, is one of the largest estates in Fronsac, and their wines are both easily found and fairly priced. The deep ruby/purple-hued 2010 cuts a larger, richer, more concentrated swath than usual without losing its elegant, rich, intensely fruity, lush style. A hedonist’s dream, it is a heady red to enjoy over the next 6-10 years."—Robert Parker 87-90
"Medium-bodied. Attractive fruit and freshness. Poised and satisfying. Drink 2015-2022."—Decanter Magazine, 16 points
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £134.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Gazin, Pomerol 2010
Gazin lies in the eastern plateau of Pomerol, Bordeaux’s smallest and most expensive appellation, where its vineyards adjoin L’Evangile and Petrus. It has a reputation for producing stunning Merlot-based wines but without the astronomical prices that other top wines from this region command. Their 2010 is really serious Pomerol that will drink wonderfully for another 20 years at least.
"2010: Another remarkable effort from Gazin, the big, powerful, dense 2010 boasts an opaque purple color along with loads of black currant and kirsch-like fruit intermixed with licorice, caramel, mocha and toasty oak. This seriously endowed, broodingly backward cuvee requires 6-8 years of cellaring and should keep for three decades or more."—Robert Parker 93-95
"Very dark and lustrous with some ruby at the rim. High toned and aromatic. Very comfortable and unforced. Highly successful with real vivacity. Dry finish. Was this on some clay? Well done! Quite juicy."—Jancis Robinson 17
75cl Bottles, Case of 6: £225.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau Grand-Corbin-Despagne, Grand Cru ClassÉ, St-Emilion Grand Cru 2010
This St-Emilion Grand Cru Classé estate has been in the Despagne family since the beginning of the 18th Century. Located in the north of St-Emilion, close to the border with Pomerol, it is considered one of the regions Chateaux to watch. The wines tend to be lively, with lots of fruit and a long finish.
"One of the best ever from this estate. Splendid wine with extra depth and purity of fruit. Suave texture and very fine tannins. Drink 2016-2025."—Decanter Magazine, 17 points
"Vital, racy and lively with real excitement and beginning, middle and end. Lots of sinew and juice. Proper wine! Dry but not drying finish."—Jancis Robinson 17
"A dense purple color and notes of incense, graphite, blueberries and raspberries are followed by a wine that appears to have just come out of malolactic fermentation given its primary, broodingly backward style. It possesses good depth and richness, but it needs to come together. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2028."—Robert Parker 88-90
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £198.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau L'ArrosÉe St-Emilion Grand Cru ClassÉ 2010 NEW–LIMITED QUANTITIES
Once owned by Pierre Magne, one of Napoleon 3rd’s ministers, Château L'Arrosée is one of the top St-Emilion Grand Crus. The 2010, made by the Caille brothers who bought the estate almost 10 years, is classic right bank wine: Merlot- based, great depth and delicacy and a wonderful mineral quality. Should provide excellent drinking over the next 15 years.
"The dense ruby/purple-hued 2010 possesses copious notes of graphite, blueberries and black raspberry liqueur intermixed with subtle smoky oak. A more structured effort than other recent vintages, deep, pure, full-bodied and impressive, this property has regained its momentum over the last 4-5 years, and their 2010 is another powerful yet elegant effort that admirably translates its terroir. Give it 4-5 years of cellaring and drink it over the following two decades."—Robert Parker 91-94
"Another fine effort from this consistent estate. Fresh and floral on the nose with well-integrated oak adding complexity. Long and linear in structure but rich on the mid-palate. Harmonious. Drink 2017-2020."—Decanter Magazine, 17.5 points
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £315.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau LAFORGE SAINT-EMILION GRAND CRU 2010
A top St-Emilion Grand Cru from Jonathan Maltus, who also makes Teyssier and star garage wine Le Dome (£1000+ a case). Made from old Merlot vines and a small amount of Cabernet Franc, Laforge is a blend of the three major terroirs in St-Emilion: gravel, sand and limestone. Consistently punches above its weight—Robert Parker recently gave the ’08 the same score as Le Pin and Leoville Barton.
"The 2010 exhibits sweet black currant fruit, powdered limestone and toasty oak in a full-bodied, rich, dense style, with the fruit very apparent and the acidity and pH lower than normal, giving the wine excellent precision/definition. This wine should drink nicely for 10-15 years."—Robert Parker 90-93
"An elegant, high-toned style, with violet and incense aromas leading the way, followed by more suave blackberry and black cherry sauce notes. Silky and pure, with subtle length on the finish." FOUR STARS. —Decanter Magazine
ChÂteau La Tour Figeac, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru ClassÉ 2010
You couldn’t ask for better terroir—La Tour Figeac is situated between Cheval Blanc and Figeac near the Pomerol border. Formerly part of Figeac this estate is now owned by the charming and larger than life Otto Rettenmaier, who is helped in the winemaking by renowned consultant, Stéphane Derenoncourt. It is a splendid wine and a firm favourite of ours—in 2010 it has over-performed again.
"Juicy and focused, with a delicious beam of anise, plum and blueberry. Superbright, with a long finish and a fine-grained structure."—Wine Spectator, Score: 89-90
"Pure, fresh, aromatic - a natural, zesty feel to the fruit. Nothing forced. Sweet, ripe mid-palate. Firm finish. Harmonious. Drink 2016-2025."—Decanter, Score: 17
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £259.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau MARJOSSE BORDEAUX Superieur 2010
One of the great value 2010’s which in our view is a step up from the 2009. Made by Pierre Lurton, ‘Cheval Blanc and d’Yquem’s famed wine maker.’ Drink 2012-2016.
"Lots of licorice and ripe berry character, full body, with ripe tannins and a fresh finish. From Pierre Lurton of Cheval Blanc."—James Suckling 89-90
"Pierre Lurton, director of Yquem and Cheval Blanc, at home. Blackish purple. Scent of thick, sweet tea. Very much more ambitious than any AC Bordeaux I have tasted so far with, almost, an overripe note. Thick and sweet. This should be very rewarding for those who seek an example of the modern right-bank style without, one hopes, the price tag."—Jancis Robinson 16
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £69.00 (In Bond)
ChÂteau MÉaume Reserve du ChÂteau, Bordeaux Superieur 2010
Alan Johnson-Hill only makes the Reserve du Château in really good years—it is the pick of his crop and is aged in second year barrels bought from the legendary Le Pin in Pomerol. Based just north of Pomerol this wine is from a parcel of old Merlot vines—50 years+ with loads of fruit and rich, supple tannins.
Alan's notes on the wine:
"Our 2010 is developing into a really powerful, robust wine. The Tannins are slightly stronger than the 2009, making it a very structured wine, with plenty of ripe fruit."
"Comparisons of these two great vintages—2009 and 2010 will be the subject of endless discussion over the years to come, as the wines develop in bottle. Wine lovers will have to drink both to make up their mind on this subject and I expect opinions to be interestingly mixed."
ChÂteau Rouget, Pomerol 2010
Last year this was our pick of the affordable Pomerols. In 2010 we think it has produced an even better wine—great concentration, lots of fruits and the tannins to help it last at least 15 years. Definitely a right bank wine to follow.
"This property has been on a qualitative hot streak for a number of years and their 2010 appears to be the richest as well as most tannic wine they have ever produced. A big, full-bodied, fleshy effort, it exhibits abundant black cherry and black currant fruit interwoven with a dusty loamy soil/sandy note in the background. A much larger wine than I have tasted in the past, it will be fascinating to follow the evolution of this 2010 (as well as Rouget’s 2009) given the intensity, power and richness. It should drink well for 12-18 years."—Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, 91-93
"Tasted at the Syndicat de Pomerol. The Rouget 2010 is very ripe and precocious on the nose with macerated dark cherries, orange essence, blueberry and a warm fug of alcohol. The palate is full-bodied with grippy tannins, very good fruit concentration and admirable linearity towards the finish lending good focus and tension. This is a very fine Rouget, one of Pomerol's ascending estates. Tasted April 2011."—Neil Martin 91-93
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £364.00 (In Bond)
“Some of the baby reds are Châteaux’s best ever, or best in decades. They will be must buys for Bordeaux lovers around the world.”—James Suckling
Sauternes
ChÂteau Rieussec, 1er Cru ClassÉ Sauternes 2010
Once again we have managed to secure a very small parcel of this top Sauternes at a price considerably below other merchants (several are offering it at £300+ for 6 bottles!)
Owned by the Rothschilds and Château Lafite, Rieussec is one of the most illustrious Sauternes estates and on a par with Château Suduiraut. A wonderful opportunity to acquire one of the very best Sauturnes either as an investment or simply to enjoy in 5-50 years time. On a first come first served basis.
"Sporting 140gms/L residual sugar, the 2010 Rieussec displays impressive clarity on the nose, with fresh pineapple, grapefruit and a touch of lime flower, and tangible minerality. The palate has that "Tropicana" vibe with guava, almond and pineapple that slightly obfuscates the terroir towards the finish. This is a highly enjoyable, comparatively rich 2010 Sauternes."—Robert Parker 90-92
"Some oaky, smoky elements dominating the fruity, juicy ones, but so impressive in the mouth. Great volume, great concentration, bags of refined and complex flavours, great length, and more Sauternes-like this time than Riesling. Drink 2020-2050."—Decanter Magazine, 18.5 points
"Intense nose with strong botrytis influence. Pure and rich though not the most monumental by a long way. And a little bit sticky, and astringent, on the end. All the ingredients are there but in completely embryonic form. RS 141 g/l, Ta 3.9 g/l. 14.2%." —Jancis Robinson MW 17++
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £395.00 (In Bond)
Barsac
ChÂteau Coutet Premier Cru Barsac 2010
Another sweet wine bargain. Almost all other UK merchants are selling this at £500+ a case (over 35% more than us). Château Coutet is one of the leading properties in Sauternes and Barsac, dating all the way back to the medieval times, when England owned Bordeaux. It has a reputation for producing stunning pudding wines at reasonable prices- in this instance the price is extraordinary.
"It is endowed with a delightful bouquet of freshly sliced mango, Tropicana and a touch of honey, with good definition and minerality. The palate is medium-bodied with very impressive balance and poise, and is slightly viscous in the mouth, with almond, lemon curd and a touch of orange peel. The finish is composed and long. The 2010 Coutet is very impressive for the vintage."—Robert Parker 93-95
75cl Bottles, Case of 12: £359.00 (In Bond)
2010 Mixed Cases
Our top sub-£100 Clarets from the 2010 vintage. Fantastic value for more everyday drinking.
The usual En Primeur terms apply.
Three bottles of each of our favourite wines from the Right Bank, where Merlot dominates.
The usual En Primeur terms apply.
Three bottles of each of our star affordable Clarets from the 2010 vintage.
The usual En Primeur terms apply.
Three bottles of each of our higher end and classed Growth wines. These should provide delicious drinking for decades to come.
The usual En Primeur terms apply.
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