Achieving nearly 15% natural alcohol (one of the highest of the Jonathan Maltus St. Emilion estates) , this blend of approximately 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc is from vineyards that sit on limestone soils near Clos Fourtet, an area that performed brilliantly in 2009. Inky purple, with notes of graphite, vanillin, blackberry and cassis as well as crushed rock and floral notes, the wine has breathtaking extravagance and a luxuriant fruit quality that simply has to be tasted to be believed. Phenomenally rich, full-bodied, and brilliantly poised and well-balanced, this is a tour de force in winemaking and a colossal Le Carre, the finest Jonathan Maltus has yet produced. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2028.

Subtle, spicy and nuanced on the nose. Rich, full, opulent palate. Dark fruit and chocolate notes. Smooth, well integrated tannins. A generous and seductive wine. Drink 2015-2025. (17 points)

90-92 Barrel sample. From a vineyard right on the edge of the city of Saint-Emilion, this is a rounded wine, packed with ripe and generous fruit, black cherries and velvet tannins. The finish is very juicy.——R.V.(8/9/2010)—— 91