Chateau Bernadotte 2010, CBS Haut Medoc
Deep rubied, it looks shiny and dense. A ripe nose starts with fresh red fruit and follows by round tones of cassis, blueberries and black cherries. Also, there are scents of graphite, spices and certain creaminess. Simple and fine enough. On the fine weighted palate, a fresh start with natural dark fruit, finishing with a floral element, a touch of spice and tannic firmness. Rightly put, Chateau Bernadotte 2010 might lack the finesse of top growth, but it always has been a solid wine with quality anchored as the top CBS and may well surpassing that of a 5th Growth. The Chateau is just outside the boundary of the Pauillac appellation, hence there an air of Pauillac about it. It is owned and managed by Pichon Lalande and has the same wine-making team; hence it is always well made and this 2010 vintage is one of the best so far. Composition is 51.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 48.5% Merlot. Aged in 33% new oak. Consistent scores in the region of 92 Points. Now Chinese owned.
RP 92. A balanced and fruity wine with mineral, dried flowers and berries Medium to full body, with fine tannins. 50 Cabernet Sauvignon and 50 per cent Merlot.
92 points Wine Enthusiast. Powerful new-wood aromas lead to a palate that is layered with firm tannins, a polished toast character and a sufficient ripe blackberry flavor to balance. This 2010 bottling shows that this is a chateau to watch.
92 points Wine Spectator. Racy and bright, with kirsch, floral and chalk notes. The finish has good nervosité and tension. Tightly wound now, but the length is there. Equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Tasted non-blind.
