2010 L`Evangile (Pomerol)

Robert Parker:

As I have been predicting, the Rothschilds are pushing l’Evangile to the highest level of the Pomerol hierarchy. Composed of 88.8% Merlot and 11.2% Cabernet Franc, the 2010 achieved 14.7% alcohol naturally, making it one of the few 2010s with lower alcohol than its 2009 counterpart (the 2009 had 15% alcohol and the 2008 had 14.5%). Most of that is due to the superb ripeness and the high concentration of Merlot in 2010. The berries were extremely tiny and the drought and cool nights in August and September gave the 2010 a lower pH and higher acidity than the 2009. For example, the 2010`s pH is 3.7, the 2009`s is higher and in 2000 it was 4.0. The dense purple-colored 2010 exhibits massive levels of black raspberries, Asian plum sauce, truffles and cassis. The wine is unctuously textured and remarkably fresh with a weighty richness (much like the 2009) but greater delineation. A marvelous effort, it, along with the 2009, may turn out to be one of the two greatest wines made by l’Evangile. The 2010 should drink well young yet last for three decades or more. 96-98 points

Neal Martin:

It has a very deep ruby colour. The nose is quite precocious yet still very well defined with blackberry, bilberry, a touch of limestone. The palate is full-bodied, sinewy, multi-dimensional with layers ripe red-berried fruits. pomegranate and raspberry with just a touch of spice. Symmetrical and very focused, perhaps without the swagger of the 2009. It is a forceful Pomerol at the moment, but at the same time intriguing and cerebral. Warning. this might blow you away after bottling. Tasted March 2011 96-98 points

Jean-Marc Quarin:

My best score to this label en primeur. Beautifully intense deep dark red. Refined, complex and deep nose of ripe fruit and truffle. Superbly voluptuous and fat on entry. Sumptuous expression of fruit on the palate, with a magical tactile feel. Dense, enticing, incredibly melting. Long finish, with taste and refined tannins. 95 points