Potensac 2010

Still quite purplish. Nicely evolved nose with some biscuity appeal. A little light but everything is in the right place. GV 14%Drink 2016 – 2030

The nose has an attractive brightness and this freshness is there on the start of the palate. Sweet blackcurrant enriches the middle and there is a nice weight of flavour towards the back. Although not that complex it has real charm.

Dense blackcurrant fruit, still backward, but much more class than its Médoc neighbours and a very good future. Drink 2015-25.

Traditionally made, yet exhibiting some modern touches such as ripe fruit, the 2010 Potensac is another sleeper of the vintage from this estate, owned by Jean-Hubert Delon, the proprietor of Leoville Las Cases. Classic Bordeaux notes of red and black currants, earth, and spice box are well-presented in this deep ruby/purple-colored, medium-bodied wine, which should drink nicely for a decade or more.

The Potensac '10 is a blend of 42% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot including 9.3% vin de presse. It offers 13.6% alcohol with a pH of 3.55. There is just a slight sense of sur-maturité on the nose perhaps from the Merlot, just a hint of prune. Not over the top but it is just there. The palate is full-bodied with succulent grippy tannins...a huge Potensac that is redeemed but very silky finish. Long in the mouth, one of the few 2010's that actually reminds me of the 2009. Tasted March 2010.

Very dark crimson. Rich and scented and very ripe black fruit on the nose. Loose texture - much more so than I would have imagined for this property in 2010 - with tightening tannins only on the very end. Almost painful levels of tannin and acidity on the finish. Bit of a trial to taste at this stage. Were stones macerated in the fermentation vat? A lesson in austerity.