This doesn’t seem to me as powerful, concentrated, or striking as their 2000, 2005, or even for that matter, their 1998. However, this blend of 75% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon tips the scale at 14% alcohol, which is an all-time record. The wine displays an almost crushed liqueur minerality intermixed with kirsch and black currant in a full-bodied, ethereal style that perhaps misses the pure density, concentration, and near-perfection of the 2005 or 2000. This wine will require patience, as the tannins are very elevated and not quite as well integrated and sweet as in most 2009s. Forget it for 5-10 years. (Tasted four times.) 92-94+ points Robert Parkers Wine Advocate # 188 (Apr 2010)
Green coffee bean, berry and fresh herbs on the nose. Full and chewy, with tobacco and berry character. A little overextracted, but should come around nicely with barrel age. 89-92 points, James Suckling for The Wine Spectator, Online March 25, 2010. | 
