Stephane Derenoncourt consults and his wife Christine direct this property, which is a 35-acre vineyard not far from Cheval Blanc near the Pomerol side of the St.-Emilion appellation. As far as the technical information, yields were 32 hectoliters per hectare, and the wine hit 14% natural alcohol in the final blend of 78% Merlot and 22% Cabernet Franc. This is certainly one of the top two or three wines I have ever tasted from this estate. Dense blue/plum-colored, with notes of blueberry, black raspberry, cherry, and currants, the wine displays some graphite, charcoal, and incense in a full-bodied, rich, silky, even voluptuous style, with oodles of fruit, concentration, and power, but wonderful freshness, which is again the paradoxical aspect of this vintage – massive concentration, but impressive freshness and elegance. (Tasted two times.)

Tasted at the Saint Emilion UGC, although this is a rather bashful sample on the nose, it appears well defined and fresh with attractive blackberry, wild hedgerow and floral aromas. A ripe entry on the palate, quite tannin but harmonious, with fine structure towards the finish. Nice weight and persistency...this should mellow nicely throughout its elevage. Tasted March 2010.

[78M/22CF] Lovely nose, sweet, pure, ripe black cherry - yet fresh too; very nicely balanced, warm, rich, firmly but finely tannic wine; generous in fruit, ample and ripe, broad, with a gently muscular flesh moderate complexity, and excellent fruit length; the typically attractive upfront, immediate, appealing juiciness that has been the basic style of this fine St Emilion for over a decade now, under owner Otto Rettenmaier's direction. Needs a while to soften, but these drink well young and are starting to show that they age well too. 2017-30