2011 - L'Eglise-Clinet, Pomerol

With a dense ruby/purple color is followed by a pure nose of mulberries, cherry liqueur and spring flowers, but no hint of oak, this full-bodied, opulent, rich beauty exhibits impressive purity, texture, richness and length. Not as structured or tannic as Trotanoy, it moves more in the direction of the opulence and flashy, showy fruit of Hosanna and Petrus. It should drink well for 15-20 years.

The 2011 l'Eglise-Clinet has a generous and high-toned bouquet with menthol-tinged red berry fruit, a hint of cough candy and black olive. This has good complexity and focus, manifesting more elegant and precision with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with lithe tannins, touches of mocha and black pepper infusing the red berry fruit, very cohesive with admirable concentration on the finish. This is drinking superbly now. Gorgeous. Tasted blind at the annual 10-Year-On tasting.

Tasted blind. Very meaty on the nose. Savoury and saline on the palate. Vigorous and punchy. Great balance and life here with fruit and tannin in balance and signs of potential. Lots of sweetness. (JR)