The 2010 was, as Alexandre mentioned, a ?merlot? year and there is 25% less Cabernet Franc in the blend. If I am being truly honest (and that has got me into a lot of trouble this year) I am missing that component on the nose. For sure, it has wonderful purity and focus, subtle raspberry and cranberry notes that are incredibly well defined, but I just miss that edginess that the Cabernet Franc imparts. Still, I cannot deny there is superb minerality here. The palate is quite broody on the entry: good density, a little softer than I expected, but with lovely spicy notes intertwined in the black, slightly tarry fruit. It is a little ?gawky? after bottling so it will gain more harmony and composure. The finish is masculine, typical of the vintage, with a long tertiary aftertaste. Very fine...of course. Tasted November 2012. Score: 96 Neal Martin

A blend of 86% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 6% Cabernet Franc, this wine is sensational! Incredible concentration of black currants, violets and morello cherries. Lifted perfume notes. The purity of fruit really shines through. At our tasting in Vieux Chateau Certan's cellar with Alexandre Thienpont he drew comparisons to the 1945 vintage. A voluptuous wine with a silky rounded finish. Sadly production was down 30% for the vintage. Drink 2020 - 2040