2009 Rauzan-Segla, Talbot

16/06/10

A quiet start in Bordeaux today due to the public holiday in Hong Kong(!). First the ever popular Talbot. For us a notch above Lagrange this year in terms of quality, sisters Nancy Bignon and Lorraine Rustmann appear to have taken some heed from the market reaction to Lagrange, and haven't let the Parker note go to their heads. Also available is the (now) consistently good white, Talbot Caillou Blanc

'This is the most impressive Talbot since the 1982 and 1986. It reveals an opaque plum/garnet/purple color as well as knock-out aromas of black fruits, cedar, incense, licorice, and a Provencal garrigue-like character. Substantial, sexy, and seductive, it is almost slutty in its exuberance and ostentatiousness. It was a thrill to drink this loaded St.-Julien. It should offer irresistible drinking over the next 20-25 years. (Tasted two times.) 92-94 points.' - Robert Parker, erobertparker.com

And now, one of our favourite must buys for a high quality-price ratio. Rauzan-Segla is hot on the heels of Palmer in 2009, if not Margaux itself, and once those are released this'll seem a bargain! We are currently offering to previous buyers and wish listers but hope to have some left for general sale.

'The nose is well defined, very classic in style with blackberry, black olive, graphite and an intriguing note of woodbines. This is a magnificent Rauzan-Segla, easily the best I have tasted at en primeur. Firstly, it is much more harmonious than usual at this nascent stage, the acidity level is just about perfect, there is a vibrancy that is really enthralling and the poise on the finish ranks alongside that of Chateau Margaux, tasted just before. The finish is very strong, slightly creamy in texture, but also superbly defined and with superb length. Very natural and refine, yet powerful. This may be the best Rauzan Segla that John Kolasa has made. 96-98 points.' - Neal Martin, erobertparker.com/winejournal

We failed to anticipate just how much demand there'd be for yesterday afternoon's L'Evangile, and the wine is now sold out.

View all 2009 Bordeaux en primeur