The Magdelaine 2011 has a fragrant bouquet with raspberry, fresh strawberry and just a touch of blueberry fruit. It is not powerful, but once against takes advantage of the finesse of the vintage, unfurling teasingly in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and great purity, sleek in texture on the entry, building gradually in the mouth rather than offering everything up front. This is a seductive Magdelaine, very composed and refined and perhaps deceivingly structure on the filigree finish. Tasted April 2012.

Pretty and balanced with delicious ripe fruit and fine tannins. Fresh acidity too. A nice density for the vintage.

Shows a darker profile, with boysenberry and linzer torte fruit, but stays supple, creamy and charming through the finish, with a floral lift at the end. Tasted non-blind.—J.M.

Fresh black cherry, licorice, kirsch and chalk-like notes are present in this medium-bodied, dark ruby-colored, classic effort. This mid-weight, lively 2011 is best drunk over the next 10-15 years.

Vineyard encépagement: 90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc. Deep cherry crimson and ripe cherry fruit on the nose. A little more leafy on the palate. Fine, dry tannins, leafy finish. Lingers. Finishes dry. (JH)