The first year with sufficient quality grapes, plus an improved global outlook, at least with the Chinese market, to allow the new owners to show what they had achieved over the previous four or five years. It is one of the more balanced and reserved 2009s of the 1855 grouping, but you see a tighter more confident structure to the wine than in earlier vintages, and a greater clarity to the fennel, crayon, liquorice notes, and beautiful crushed roses on the aromatics. Fruits remain brambled blackberry and loganberry rather than tight cassis or bilberry. It's enjoyable, ready to drink but will age. Eric Boissenot consultant. Harvest September 23 to October 7. 60% new oak.