This is very fine for the vintage with a lovely blueberry and currants and spice character. Full body, with well-integrated tannins and a pretty finish.

This has solid depth, with good winey currant and blackberry fruit at the core, picking up briar, anise and sweet tobacco as it moves through the finish.-J.M.

[58CS/37M/5PV] Dumb and yet with clear ripe fruit there; easy, flowing, relatively supple middleweight with a light defining dry tannin; gently fleshy, fresh and lightly dry-edged, pleasing but fairly straightforward flavour, and with good light length. 2019-29 [M.Schuster, Bordeaux Mar/Apr 2012]

Copious black currant, olive, unroasted coffee bean, forest floor and underbrush characteristics are present in this attractive, dark plum/ruby/purple-tinged offering. One of the lighter-styled 2011 St.-Juliens, the well-made Talbot can be drunk over the next decade.

The Talbot 2011 has a tight, slightly pinched bouquet with blackberry and sous-bois, but missing a little “energy” considering that Saint Julien is one of the year’s more consistent appellations. The palate is medium-bodied with light sappy dark berry fruit. The oak is nicely integrated although it is hampered by a rather dry, very conservative finish. It is not a bad Talbot, but it needs to evolve more personality. Tasted April 2012.

Drink 2018-2030 Dark cherry crimson. Cassis aroma, a touch dusty. Furry texture with thick tannins, freshness pulling it through on the finish. Nice density of fruit should fill out the frame as the tannins soften/clarify. (JH)