Charred oak notes are a little dominant on the nose, but this is clearly a wine that's built to last. It takes its time and is confident, powerful and focussed, with good freshness that kicks up its heels on the finish. It will age well from this point, and it's only just starting to soften. Not generous but has walls and floors. Jane Anson
Blind tasted by Jane Anson (at Château Siran, 21 Nov 2018)
Part of Anson: Margaux 2011 vs 2012 - How the wines taste now

A bit woodsy in feel now, with a youthfully raw edge, as singed sandalwood and alder notes liberally frame the core of dark cherry, plum and black currant fruit. This has length and drive, with a smoldering feel echoing. Should be among the top examples of the AOC in 2011 after it settles in fully. J.M.

A wine that has a dense core of fruit, with blackberry and licorice character. Full body with velvety tannins and fresh finish. Balance and character are two words that come to mind for this wine.

This small estate (only 130,000 bottles were produced in 2011) has been on a qualitative tear for a number of years. A fragrant perfume of spring flowers, black raspberries, blueberries and cassis is followed by a wine with medium-bodied, juicy flavors, sweet tannin and a broad, generous mouthfeel. A terrific 2011, it should be at its peak in 2-4 years, and last for 15 or more. Bravo!

A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, the Malescot has a perfumed bouquet with dark plum, raspberry and wild strawberry fruit. It has very fine lift for the vintage. The palate has good weight on the entry with plump mulberry fruit laced with spice. It is a little chunky compared to the 2010 but it makes a good effort in a difficult vintage, plus the oak is well integrated towards the finish. This may warrant a higher score after bottling. Tasted April 2012.

Moderately saturated ruby. Rather cool, pungent aromas of dark berries, coffee, mint, flowers and herbs. Then smooth and rich in the mouth, offering good sweetness but also a distinct greenness to the blackcurrant, coffee and menthol flavors. Finishes long, but with bitingly dry tannins that coat the palate. Try decanting this several hours ahead to soften it a little. Ian D'Agata

Drink 2017-2027 Elderberry juice, black core. Sweet damson fruit. Gently inviting though there's no sense of excitement. A bit lean on the palate, fresh enough but the structure overpowers the fruit so the tannins finish dry – though maybe it will gain flesh? Score assumes so. (JH)