2010 La Conseillante

La Conseillante Produced from an assemblage of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, (which is the same as the vineyard plantings,) the wine is slightly higher in alcohol than what they achieved in 2009 at 14.5% . Due to the high levels of acidity from 3.69 pH, there is no sensation of heat. Floral, chocolate, truffle and black raspberry liqueur aromas exude from the glass. Dark and powerful, a unique character for La Conseillante, the wine is rich, intens and filled with plum liqueur, chocolate and black cherry. The wine combines freshness, silky textures and a sense of refined elegance, with the volume turned up. Jean- Michel Laporte feels 2010 is in the same style as 2005.

The 2010 La Conseillante, with its aromas of plums, cassis, blackberries, and cedar, and lovely freshness and nice depth of flavours, is made in a very rich and densely-packed style. The result is a complete, gorgeous wine with balance, refreshing acidity and wonderful length that will need at least 8-10 years of bottle age before it really starts to express itself. asianpalate.com

Cropped between 16th September and 5th October at 39hl/ha, the La Conseillante ’10 has a very pretty nose where the Merlot seems to be more dominant than the Merlot at first with some lovely wild strawberry and raspberry scents. But with time in the glass, the Cabernet Franc makes its impression with some delicate, leafy notes coming through, a hint of truffle. The palate is simply gorgeous with supple tannins, harmonious dark berry fruits interlaced with dark plum and a hint of mocha, very good weight and persistency towards the finish. This is an outstanding follow-up to the awesome 2009. Tasted April 2011. Neal Martin erobertparker.com