Roc de Cambes 2010

The 2010 Roc de Combes has a very pure nose of black cherries, plum and iodine. It is well defined, quite elegant rather than intense, becoming more floral with time. The palate is medium-bodied with a lovely, subtle opening of dark plum, mulberry and a little spice. The tannins are refined and remain in the background, finely interwoven into the texture, whilst the finish is understated and somehow, effortless. This is a great Roc de Combes that has fulfilled its promise from barrel. Tasted November 2012.

Deep garnet colored, the 2010 Roc de Cambes opens with leather and animal notions over a core of baked plums and Black Forest cake plus suggestions of bouquet garni and tilled soil. Full-bodied, the palate is solidly constructed with firm, chewy tannins and loads of freshness supporting the generous black fruit preserves, finishing on a compelling earthy/meaty note. 2020 - 2034

70% Merlot, 5% Malbec, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. Picked 15 Oct. Exceptionally dark crimson. Very sweet and rich and tense. One of the tensest wines I have come across - real tension on top of great ripe fruit rather than overworked 'taut' wines. Really very impressive. Much more structure than most Tertre vintages. Very small grapes and rich and very exciting. Not at all porty but very sweet and fresh. Holds its alcohol well. Very fresh. Really very unusual! Spicy and rich but not at all heavy. Smoothed tannins - thanks to all that new oak? Though very fresh and not that long on the finish. 15.3%

The mix of fruits on the nose has an attractive freshness and this lighter brighter character is there on the start of the palate. There is a greater weight of sweet fruit in the middle, layers of flavour bramble, black cherry and damson plum. The oak towards the back is well integrated adding a touch of spice.