Palmer 2001

The 2001 Palmer is a vintage that I have tasted several times, though Thomas Duroux lamented that he has very few bottles left at the property. The lovely bouquet of red berry fruit, dark chocolate, star anise and light iodine aromas gently unfolds from the glass, displaying a little more complexity than the 2001 Château Margaux that I tasted the same day. The palate is medium-bodied with a granular opening and a little ferrous in style, secondary notes percolating through the carapace of primary fruit. Tea leaves, allspice and black pepper define what feels like quite a robust finish, lacking the elegance that Palmer exhibits nowadays. Still, this is an excellent 2001 that probably deserves another 2–3 years in the cellar.

Medium-garnet colour. The nose is still very youthful with notes of ripe cassis, dark cherries, cloves, graphite, a touch of cedar and a little mint. The medium bodied, well structured palate gives medium-firm tannins, medium+ acidity with a good balance of plump, spicy fruit. The oak needs a little more time to marry and tannins are a little on the firm side but otherwise approachable now. Long finish. Drink now - 2025. Tasted February 2009.

Nose a little more subdued than the 2000, but this has the truffle, rosebud and woodsmoke combination of a Palmer that is at a perfect moment to share. Loganberry, raspberry, tobacco leaf, peony, mint leaf, the tannins are finessed and finely spun, tracing the outline of the fruit but not constricting it in any way. Waves of aromatics through the palate keep you hooked, this is nuanced, elegant, moreish, with so much Margaux appellation charater, and a juicy finish. Harvest September 29 to October 11. 60% new oak.

Mid crimson. A certain sweetness on the nose and reasonable balance, just a little bit too much oak.