2010 Armailhac (Pauillac)

Robert Parker:

The 2010 achieved in excess of 14% natural alcohol. It exhibits a dense ruby/purple color along with a pronounced nose of underbrush, cedarwood, licorice and black currants. This attractive, elegant, mid-weight Pauillac should be drinkable early in life and last for 15+ years. 89-92 points.

Neal Martin:

A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, delivering 13.85% alcohol with close 3.74 pH. The nose is a little muted at the moment despite rigorous coaxing, quite Zen-like with crushed stone, traces of blackberry leaf and cassis, gaining momentum with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly abrasive tannins on the entry although they will soften. This is a relatively masculine d’Armailhac without the glycerine you often find at this stage. More masculine, the Cabernet Sauvignon driving along to a stern but fresh finish. Good potential, but it will require cellaring more than usual. Drink 2017- Tasted April 2011. 90-92 points

Jean-Marc Quarin:

One of the most refined D`Armailhac I know. Savoury, fresh and crammed with flavours on the palate. Precise and well-coated tannins. Good length. 88-89 points

Ian D`Agata:

(60% cabernet sauvignon, 23% merlot, 15% cabernet franc and 2% petit verdot; 13.8% alcohol) Medium-deep ruby. Austere nose hints at red fruits, cassis, cedar and minerals. Soft and luscious on entry, then tighter and more linear in its saline black fruit and delicately herbal flavors. The fine tannins show a slightly bitter quality on the lingering finish. This came across as a bit simple, and though it`s a very well made wine with a varietal composition similar to the 2009, I find the latter to be much finer. 86-89 points