The closed, austere 2008 represents the old school philosophy of winemaking employed at Beausejour-Duffau before Nicolas Thienpont and Stephane Derenoncourt controlled the viticulture and winemaking starting in 2009. A 21,000-bottle blend of 70% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Franc and 4% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2008 exhibits high tannin, medium body and an impressively elegant style. It is already revealing the nobility of this exquisite vineyard. However, the wine does not possess the extra gear of aromatic and flavor dimensions to merit an outstanding review. Give it 2-3 years of cellaring and drink it over the following 15-20.

Tasted blind. Mellow, evolved nose with some sweet ripeness on the palate. Still quite a bit of fine tannin and marked acidity. Bit too tart. (JR)