Issan 2010

A complete, medium to full-bodied, exquisite Margaux from this medieval, moat-encircled, compellingly beautiful estate in the southern Medoc, D'Issan's 2010 is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. The deep, gravelly soils mixed with clay have provided extraordinary aromatics. The yields were ridiculously low (22 hectoliters per hectare) and the wine tips the scaled at 13.7% natural alcohol. Production was small after the selection for the grand vin, and the result is a dense, purple-colored wine with beautiful aromatics of spring flowers, blueberries and black raspberries as well as hints of cassis, tar and charcoal. The wine is gorgeously pure, well-balanced, and soft enough to be approached in 4-5 years or cellared for 25-30.

Tasted at an impromptu visit to the chateau, the d'Issan 2010 (a blend of 39% Merlot and 61% Cabernet Sauvignon representing 53% of the crop, raised in 55% new oak for 12 months) has an intense bouquet of blackcurrant, a hint of crème de cassis and blueberry. This really captures the essence of Margaux: floral and feminine. The palate is soft and caressing on the entry with light but tensile tannins encasing the mineral-rich black fruit. It is very well balanced, nicely focused with a lingering hint of black pepper on the finish. Harmonious and long, this is a superlative d'Issan from Emmanuel Cruse and his team. Tasted November 2012.

Deep garnet in color, the 2010 D'Issan opens with baked blackberries, blackcurrant jelly and stewed plums scents with hints of bouquet garni and charcoal. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is bright and refreshing with just enough chewy, textured black fruits and an earthy finish. Drink 2020-2038.

Gorgeous ripe fruit in this with plum, black cherries and spices on the nose and palate. Full body, with soft tannins and a long, long finish. Very refined and focused. Best from here in decades. Try after 2018.