I think most winemakers have their heads in the clouds, and the weather channel on permanently. The next few days will determine the quality of the harvest, although the prospect of a great vintage is almost negligible. A good one if the sun shines, and there is no more rain. Otherwise, it will be a very “difficult.” The problems include a very late harvest, a cold winter and a small crop (between 25-40% off the average) a result of a difficult flowering.
I also tasted a few wines of interest including a mini Pichon Baron vertical 2009-2011.
2009
In bits at the moment, no cohesion but lots of promise. Shard of oak here, some fruit and exotic spice there, tannins everywhere. Will be good but in a funk at the moment.
2010
In general I prefer the classical 2010s to the unorthodox 2009s. Easy choice here since 2009 did not want to come out and play, while 2010 was only to happy to. Absolutely stunning quality, moves effortlessly up and down the palate. Fruit is fresh but there is a hint of plum rather than pluminess, and plenty of floral and licorice notes. Superb length and finish. It might in fact probably will reach the quality of the brilliant 2005s, in my view the best wine ever made at the estate.
2011
Some time in in twenty plus years, a discerning connoisseur will pull one of these wines from the cellar and serve it blind. By then, 2011 will be an underrated and overlooked vintage, but this, like many of the other wines from this vintage, it will charm and seduce rather than overpower. Lovely wine, in a minor key, in perfect balance.
Lafleur
2008
It’s always a treat to come here, as most of the time is spent outside in the vineyard. When we did come in to taste, the 2008 had been opened a little while, and was beautiful. Obviously it needs a ton of time, but this is a seriously good wine, from a very good vintage caught in the shadow of 2009 and 2010.
Chateau Margaux
Pavilon Rouge 2010
If you are looking for a bargain, look no further than this. Better than many Grand Vins made at the estate. Had that wonderful explosive nose, and fruit mixed with violets was intoxicating. Very close to the Margaux 2010, which in itself is quite a wine. As Paul Pontellier pointed out, the year was so good, the Pavilon was going to get exceptional fruit. Interesting also, the Alter Ego of Chateau Palmer, was also remarkable whenI tasted it in April.
Margaux 2010
This is spectacular. Everything in quiet unison. Great aromatics and flavors and a really nicely balanced structure. Pontellier thinks it is the best wine he has made here, and he is probably right. Crowned by a finish that seems to go on forever.
Margaux 2010