Tasted ex-chateau and single blind in Southwold. Having adored this wine out of barrel, I am pleased to report that is excelled in blind conditions. It has fine definition on the nose with blackberry, cassis and blueberry. The palate has a sweet succulent entry, rounded in the mouth with beautifully integrated new oak. Very focused, silky smooth oaky finish. This is tailored in a modern fashion, but it is very classy. It will be interesting to see how well it ages. Tasted January 2012.

Deep ruby. Profound nose combines smoky black cherry and rich milk chocolate aromas. Sweet and pliant, with good depth to the cassis and coffee flavors. Finishes pure and long, with very smooth tannins.

A fresh, accessible style, showing a beam of bright raspberry and mulled cherry fruit laid easily over hints of lilac and pebble, which give this just enough grip on the finish. Drink now through 2013. 2,250 cases made (JM)

(a blend of 55% merlot, 30% cabernet franc and 15% cabernet sauvignon): Medium red. Rather shallow aromas of red berries and tobacco. Supple but a bit streamlined, showing a faint green character and in need of more grip and thrust. I don't find the structure or verve here of the best vintages. Finishes a bit diffuse, with some herbal traces.

Slightly shorter and less impressive than it was from barrel, the very good 2008 is a mid-weight Graves revealing a dark plum/garnet color along with sweet earthy, herbal, tobacco leaf, sweet and sour cherry and crushed rock characteristics. This medium-bodied, spicy 2008 tails off in the mouth. Drink it over the next 7-8 years.