Very sexy tannins here with blueberry and mineral character on the palate. Full body and refined finish. Well done.

Youthfully raw, with dark plum, currant and blackberry fruit still settling in, along with roasted tobacco and dark fig-bread notes. Nice bass note already. Will the treble fill in?¯J.M.

Composed of 85% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc and a tiny dollop of Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2011 is a spicy, straightforward, deep plum/ruby/purple-colored effort displaying powerful tannins as well as a slight austerity. There is also plenty of creamy, rich blueberry and black raspberry fruit intermixed with hints of crushed rocks and bay leaves. It should be close to full maturity in 3-4 years and last for 12-15. Owned by Bordeaux visionary/entrepreneur deluxe, Bernard Magrez, this is still the largest vineyard in St.-Emilion.

Tasted twice with consistent notes, the Fombrauge ’11 seems a little light on the nose with cassis and blueberry fruit that is rather diffuse. The palate is a little peppery on the entry with fine tannins: a more feminine Fombrauge and for me, it demonstrates more composure and better balance than the Magrez-Fombrauge. The tannins on the finish are powdery but it retains admirable focus. Tasted April 2012.

Drink 2016-2028 Intense purple crimson. Attractive energetic, fresh nose. Some spiciness. Very racy. Manages to lift itself above the norm. Quite transparent. Even juicy.