ntense hazelnuts and blackberries on the nose follow through to a full to medium body, with chocolate and berry flavors and firm tannins. Not giving away a lot at the finish at the moment. Reserved and sophisticated. But structured and chewy.

Deep garnet in color, the 2010 Grand-Puy-Lacoste is a little subdued to begin, opening out to reveal notes of black cherries, stewed plums and blackberry preserves with hints of bouquet garni, tapenade and dried lavender. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a firm, chewy texture and lively acidity, slightly over-shadowing the delicate, fading fruit, finishing on a stewed tea note.

Very densely tannic wine, the dry character of the wine a major element. This dryness gives the wine power, without the fruit at this stage. It does have the weight for the future.

This is dense but silky around the edges, with crushed plum and black currant fruit lined with roasted vanilla bean, tobacco and loam notes. Everything hangs solidly through the finish, lined with finely beaded acidity and leaving an echo of singed anise. Best from 2015 through 2028.