Clos du Marquis 2010

We have nothing to add to Tim Atkin MW's tasting notes on Los de Marquis 2010,' Fine cassis/violets nose, a perfect Saint-Julien with the precision and elegance of a Cru Classé.' Suffice it to say that this wine displays plenty of a medium ruby tone with a tight rim. The nose of sweet kirsch, liquorice and black currant fruit in an elegant style, medium to full-body, soft but abundant tannins and a long finish. It possesses the elegance and finesse of its bigger sibling, Leoville Las Cases. Maybe slightly chill the wine down, and wait for its return to room temperature, with the alcohol hitting 13.6% in a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc.

Parker rightly reiterates that Clos de Marquis is no longer a second wine but rather one from a separate vineyard in the holdings of Leoville Las Cases. Therefore, it should be considered a different entity, although the same winemaking team and philosophy are at play.

The best score is 96 by James Suckling, who writes, 'Deep garnet in colour, the 2010 Clos du Marquis opens with medicinal cherry cough syrup scents followed by a core of plum preserves, crème de cassis, and a touch of wild sage. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is coated with maturing black fruits and dried mint flavours, framed by chewy tannins and finishing with a refreshing lift. 2020 - 2035.