Lascombes 2010

Modern style of extraction in great contrast to 2009- dense, suppressed, clean wood spice, sweet vanilla, toasty and robust hints of cigar box and mint-alcohol for bottled wine is 14%. There are adorable noses of creme de cassis, spring flowers, violets, roses, subtle barbecue smoke and charcoal, intense, pure fruit, dark, extraordinary purity, structure and length. Bodied, at cru level. The blend is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot; hence, some complexities and some mileage of 20+ years.

Scores are good. RP gives 96 and talks about its modern style with soul and potential. JS gives 94 and writes, 'pinpoint but rich fruit in blackcurrants, liquorice, fresh herbs, blackberry leaf and cedar. Full body, structured tannins, vibrant acidity and a long finish. It is a wonderful combination of freshness and fruit. Delicious now, but this will hold for many more years.' (edited).