The 2010 Château de la Dauphine was cropped at 40hl/ha from 22 September to 1 October, aged in 30% new oak for 12 months. It has an attractive nose with black plum, mint, juniper and liquorice, though comparing them...
The 2010 Château de la Dauphine was cropped at 40hl/ha from 22 September to 1 October, aged in 30% new oak for 12 months. It has an attractive nose with black plum, mint, juniper and liquorice, though comparing them side-by-side, here I just err towards the 2009. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannins and a fine bead of acidity. Whereas I prefer the nose on the 2009, the palate on the 2010 demonstrates better delineation and a greater sense of control on the finish that is lightly sprinkled with white pepper and tobacco. Overall, the two vintages have their own individual virtues, though as I mentioned in my previous note, it needs two or three years in the cellar.
-- Neal Martin