2010 Bordeaux en primeur: Angludet

12/05/11

The last few weeks have belonged to some of the lesser names of Bordeaux - including many properties which aren't released en primeur except in the very best vintages. This morning sees the first of the big names. After the superb but tiny 2009 crop (decimated by a localised hailstorm), the Sichel family's 2010 Angludet is back to a respectable 40 hl/ha. It is the second year under the stylish new label. The release price is 19% higher than last year's - the Sichels would probably argue that their 2009 was underpriced - but, once again, this was one of our favourites in Margaux and remains a must-buy.

'The dark plum/purple-hued 2010 d’Angludet is unquestionably a sleeper of the vintage. Sweet licorice-infused black currant, asphalt and smoke aromas emerge from this heady, ripe, well-endowed cuvee. Sweet tannin, lush fruit and loads of glycerin suggest this lovely Margaux will drink well during its first 12-15 years of life. 89-91 points.' - Robert Parker, erobertparker.com

'My best score ever given to this cru en primeur. A superb success. The estate is poised to become a challenging outsider in Margaux. In 2010, its clayey subsoil was a real asset. Dark-hued wine. Fruity on the nose, with depth, touches of ink and tar. Gorgeous and broad on entry then complex, fleshy and crammed with flavours. Tasty and powerful, with ripe and finely-grained tannins in the persistence. Utterly delicious. 90 points.' - Jean-Marc Quarin, quarin.com

This week has also seen the first of the big sweet wines. Who cares?, I hear you ask, when older vintages can be picked up for less. Most Sauternes and Barsac continues to be hugely undervalued; Doisy-Vedrines offers oodles of pleasure at a measly £20 a bottle. /AR

View all 2010 Bordeaux en primeur