2010 - Le Carre Teyssier, Saint-Emilion

Deep, chalky notes intermixed with black fruits, camphor, and an almost ethereal floral note make for a full-bodied wine that has slightly more austerity than Laforge or Teyssier (two other wines from the same team), but considerable style and nobility. In addition, it is substantial, powerful and capable of 20 years of longevity. A blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, the 2010 Le Carre comes from a microscopic estate that produces just over 300 cases from their limestone hillsides near Clos Fourtet and Canon, two of the great names of St.-Emilion. Of course, this property is less well-known, but the quality of their 2010 is spectacular.

Deep red-ruby. Ripe aromas of black raspberry and mocha, plus vanilla and chocolate oak notes. Rich and fine-grained, with excellent chalky energy giving lift to the flavors of spicy red fruits, minerals and sexy oak. Has the depth of fruit to support its big, oak-driven tannins. This intensely flavored wine became sweeter and more exotic with 24 hours in the recorked bottle.