An under performer for years until bought from its Swedish pilot owner in 1997 by May-Eliane de Lencquesaing of Pichon Lalande, this fine estate is now unlocking its potential. May-Eliane admired the terroir of her new property – now in the Roederer portfolio – because it neighbours Pauillac and indeed part of the land is Pauillac. What she also saw was that the best vines weren`t always planted in the right places. So there has been an increase in Merlot to take advantage of the clay undersoils, which is one of the reasons Bernadotte did so well in 2009. Never over stressed, the vines produced almost perfect grapes, making an outstanding wine of power, minerality and beautifully managed tannins, all supporting concentrated fruit. All picking here is done by hand and extraction is light, so the wine is enjoyable relatively young, even in a brilliant vintage like this. (CW 19/04/10)