Blueberries and cocoa powder. Some roasted hazelnuts and vanilla. Very expressive nose. Vibrant and well-structured on the palate with a juicy freshness. Velvet texture and long finish with fine ripe tannins. Very well done. Drink from 2014.

Currants, spiced cherries, savory tobacco, and herbs define the 2010 Château De La Rivière, a medium to full-bodied, round and supple effort that's drinking perfectly today. It’s an impressive showing that underscores both the quality and age-worthiness of top Fronsac. Based on 85% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Malbec, it was raised 12 months in barrels (one-third new, one-third once-used, one-third twice-used). Drink 2025-2035.

Very dark and chunky still, but loaded with blackberry paste, fig sauce and plum skin flavors, along with mouthwatering anise, maduro tobacco and hazelnut husk notes that keep the finish taut and closed for now. Yet this has excellent depth and buried acidity, and should blossom in the cellar. Best from 2015 through 2025. – JM

This historic estate (frequently doubling as a movie set when a vast Medieval chateau is needed) has produced their finest wine I have yet tasted. The inky/blue/purple-colored 2010 offers abundant aromas of blueberries black raspberries and spring flowers as well as an enticing texture beautiful purity good acidity and lots of staying power on the palate. An impressively endowed claret it should drink well for 10-15 years.