Belair-Monange 2009

Greater density and definition than in the past. A more modern feel. Lovely fruit, refined texture and still the freshness and length provided by the terroir. Drink 2018-2040.

Christian Moueix and his son, Edouard, must be extraordinarily proud of what they have achieved in just a few years after taking over this property (previously known as Belair) that had been so mismanaged and underexploited by its previous owners. Yields were cut to 13 hectoliters per hectare in 2009, and this great terroir has finally revealed its true potential. Tasting like a liqueur of crushed rocks intermixed with raspberry jam and kirsch, the full-bodied, elegant 2009 is a quintessential example of a true terroir wine. Forget it for 5-7 years and drink it over the following three decades. (Tasted once.) Drink 2015-2045.Robert Parker added an asterisk to this wine score to signify that it is a wine he considers has the finest potential of all the offerings he has ever tasted from this estate in nearly 32 years of barrel tasting samples in Bordeaux.

Tasted at JP Moueix. There is a slight exotic touch to the aromatics of this Belair-Monange, candied red-berried fruits, a touch of orange-zest, apricot and dried honey. Well-defined, expanding with aeration with hints of vanilla essence. The palate is medium-bodied, very tight at the moment with firm tannins, quite compact and reticent, but there is certainly a sense of coiled-up energy towards the finish. Hopefully, it will be more expressive after bottling. Tasted March 2010.

Delivers intense blueberry and blackberry, with hints of dark chocolate. Medium- to full-bodied, showing firm, silky tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Precise fruit. Racy, ripe tannins. Formerly Belair, and much better quality.