La Fleur de Boüard 2009

This full-throttle red bets on power, with a thick, syrupy texture and muscular, body armor tannins. The flavor range is dominated by sanguine, mineral and espresso notes, but there's a core of blackberry and currant flavors. Thanks to fresh acidity, this remains balanced and alluring. Best from 2014 through 2028.

The richness of black cherry and damson flesh out the palate and give a lovely sweetness on the nose. The mid palate is bright with fresh fruit underpinning the sweeter mix. The back palate has lovely rich ripe flavours. Drink 2016-2035.

Dark and dense with layered fruit. Well integrated oak apparent. Fine tannins and texture. Drink 2014-2022.

The 2009 La Fleur de Bouard (made from yields of 45 hectoliters per hectare; 13.5% alcohol) is a Merlot-based wine with brilliant purity, abundant black cherry, plum, and boysenberry fruit, extraordinary density, decent acids, and high tannins. This full-bodied, concentrated, impressively endowed 2009 should age nicely for 10-15 years. At a recent tasting of the 2000 vintage, I was reminded of how great this estate's luxury cuvee can be. It was off the charts in terms of richness and personality. (Tasted three times.) Drink 2010-2025.Unquestionably a star of Lalande de Pomerol is the 50-acre estate of Hubert and Corinne de Bouard, who produce wines that fly well above their pedigree. Tasting through older vintages proves that these are the "real deal," as they age quite well. One can even argue that the luxury cuvee, La Plus de la Fleur de Bouard, is one of the top twenty wines being produced in Bordeaux - a remarkable achievement given the appellation's lack of status.