Chateau Fonplegade, Grand Cru Classe, St. Emilion, Bordeaux, 2010

Tasting: St. Emilion Grand Cru & Premier Grand Cru Classe

Toasty nose and a hint of cooked fruit, though that may be the oak influence. Soft and plump, quite concentrated but lacks lift and zest. Quite peppery and spicy on the finish, but rather hollow. Moderate length, quite chunky.

Tasting: St. Emilion Grand Cru & Premier Grand Cru Classe

Dark, rich and concentrated. Generous fruit on the palate backed by a firm tannic frame. Solid but balanced. Plenty of reserve for the long term.

Tasting: St. Emilion Grand Cru & Premier Grand Cru Classe

Fine fragrant lift of Cabernet Franc fruit over ripe Merlot. Very good length and very expressive of the richness of 2010 and the natural tannins which are still there, as is a refreshing acidity; very good depth and length.