1 | Wine | Page 343

"A savory dusty aroma of licorice and cocoa powder with ripe prune and plumy fruit aromas reflecting the very warm vintage. A lush, plump, soft and supple wine that seeps across the palate, with fleshy fruit notes of prunes and stewed cherries, and a dash of spice finishing with structured silky fine tannins and a soft warm finish."

"The 2009 Fombrauge has the potential to be the finest wine ever made at this property. Michel Rolland is the consulting oenologist in the vineyard, which sits in the southern sector of St.-Emilion known as St.-Christophe des Bardes. It was picked very late in 2009, and the result is a powerhouse wine with an inky blue/purple color and the smell of pen ink, acacia flowers, blueberries, black raspberries and cassis. The wine hit 15% natural alcohol, which gives it lots of glycerin as well as a full-bodied intensity, while the low yields of 27 hectoliters per hectare have provided a striking level of concentration and length. This is very serious wine from an estate that is on the upswing. It should benefit from 3-5 years of cellaring and keep for two decades."

"Refined, with a sweet, smoky undercurrent to the flavors of glazed pear, candied lemon zest and golden raisin, with a hint of marzipan. Racy acidity frames—but doesn't dominate—the wine, with a spicy note lingering on the finish."

"The typical power and weight of this site comes through, but in 2008 the Margheria has an extra dimension of sexiness that makes it highly appealing. Dark cherries, plums, asphalt, melted road tar, dried rose petals and licorice are some of the many notes that come to life in the glass."

"Dark mocha and espresso notes lead the way, melded to a core of plush plum, blackberry paste and fig fruit. The roasted, smoky finish shows enough of a graphite edge to stay honest. Though a bit revved up, this is still enjoyable."