This rich, full wine shows the chateau to be at the top of its form. It's finely balanced, pushing both its fruit and acidity, with the tannins taking the supporting role. With its power leashed, this shows the stylish side of Saint-Julien, although it will certainly age for many years.

Very polished and stylish, with a velvety feel to the layers of crushed plum, currant and blackberry, while bittersweet cocoa and black licorice glide in on the gorgeous, black tea-infused finish. Features a lovely allure rather than raw power, making this possibly the prettiest St.-Julien of the vintage. There's plenty in the tank for cellaring as well. Best from 2014 through 2030.

The 2010 Branaire-Ducru clearly has the more defined and crystalline bouquet compared directly with the 2009. In fact, it has one of the finest, most complex and compelling aromatics in recent years with gorgeous, mineral-driven black fruit that are supremely well pixelated. The palate is medium-bodied with fine but quite rigid tannin, a very fine bead of acidity, symmetrical in balance and with seductive purity on the tensile, brine-tinged finish. It needs a little more sustain on the aftertaste but it is still a very successful wine from the estate. Tasted at the property.