Chateau Couhins Lurton Rouge, Pessac Leognan 2010

Merlot 77%
Cabernet Sauvignon 23%

Winter was harsh (many days with frost) and spring rather chilly. There was a great deal of sunshine in 2010 and a long period of drought from 21 June to late September, which was favourable for ripening.

The bouquet reveals notes of very ripe black fruit (blackcurrant, plum and blackberry) with an empyreumatic character that comes through even more when the wine is swirled in the glass.

This wine is full-bodied and generous on the palate with rich, smooth tannin.  It also has a beautiful velvety texture, without a trace of heaviness.  Oak ageing is evident, but very much under control, and contributes toasty nuances that continue into the long aftertaste. This wine will be at its best in the next four or five years and make a brilliant accompaniment to game, duck and red meats… or even a dark chocolate fondue !

James Sucking 91