2010 Clos Fourtet (St-Emilion)

Robert Parker:

Although this superb 2010 is built differently, it is as impressive as the extravagant 2009 and the prodigious 2005. A blend of 85% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc made from yields of 31 hectoliters per hectare, with 14.5% natural alcohol, Stephane Derenoncourt is the consulting winemaker. One can not say enough about what proprietor Philippe Cuvelier has accomplished at Clos Fourtet over the last decade turning a perennial underachiever into one of the great wines of Bordeaux. Production from this 50-acre vineyard is nearly 4,000 cases. The inky/purple-hued 2010 displays a beautiful bouquet of incense, blueberry and blackberry liqueur, licorice and camphor. Full-bodied and opulent with more tannin and glycerin than the massive 2009, the 2010, while less sumptuous than the 2009, is a huge effort that is undoubtedly capable of lasting 30+ years. 95-97 points.

Neal Martin:

Deep purple in colour, the Clos Fourtet has a very opulent bouquet with lifted black fruits laced with liquorice and mint. The palate is full-bodied with a ripe, oaky entry, missing a little freshness at the moment though there is a pleasing linearity on the persistent finish. This will show much better in bottle. Tasted April 2011. 90-92+ points

Jean-Marc Quarin:

My best score for the estate en primeur. Brightly coloured wine. Superb nose of fruit - and flower - liqueur, refined and fresh. Truly subtle. Extraordinary detailed and well-balanced in its proportions. Delightfully fruity, mellow and melting. Wonderfully elegant tactile feel throughout. Lingering, caressing and extremely sappy finish. Impossible not to swallow! 94-95 points