The 2010 Réserve de la Comtesse has a tight, broody bouquet that feels a little thin compared to its peers in this flight. Red berry fruit, brown spices and iron filing scents only reluctantly emerge, gradually adding weight and in the end the aromatics are very satisfying. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grain tannins and attractive red and black fruit, a little leathery with cedar notes towards the lively finish. This note comes from a second bottle opened, the first was drier and less vigorous. This second bottle is hopefully representative. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners 10-Year On Bordeaux horizontal.

Vibrant and silky, this slides down almost too easily, with delicious red and black currant fruit laced with hints of anise, violet and black tea. A flicker of singed balsa wood keeps the finish going along. Best from 2022 through 0. 13,333 cases made.