The 2009 is the finest Chasse Spleen since the 1989. Its deep purple color is accompanied by notes of graphite, black currants, sweet spice, and a hint of Chinese black tea. Full-bodied and opulent with well-integrated acidity, tannin, wood, and alcohol, it is a lush beauty to enjoy over the next 20+ years. (Tasted two times.)

Tasted at Vintex. This Chasse-Spleen has a lovely, well defined bouquet with black berry, plum, wild hedgerow and a touch of tobacco. The palate is dense, sinewy with firm tannins, tangible backbone and structure, with a dense, tannic finish that dominates the fruit at the moment. It will be intriguing to see how this develops because that finish is slightly metallic and hard. Tasted March 2010.

[50CS/43M/7PV] Cassis Cabernet and slightly milky oak on the nose; fresh, firm middleweight of moderate concentration; Crisply ripe fruit, but quite a chewy Chasse Spleen, crisp and chewy at once, with moderate complexit and length. Will require time. Not bad, but not up to the best of the year for its level. 2017-27