Slightly taut, but the notes of cassis and blackberry preserves stay persistent. Shows some anise and singed spice details, but the woodsy feel of the earlier vintages is much less evident here. Good length and focus.—Non-blind Fonplégade vertical (December 2016). Best from 2020 through 2030. 3,250 cases made. –JM

The resurrection and rebound in quality of Fonplegade under the Adams family of America, who hired consulting oenologist Michel Rolland, has been remarkable. The 2011 continues to provide convincing evidence of their commitment to quality. Slightly more narrowly constructed than usual, it possesses good purity along with lots of red and black fruits and minerality in a medium-bodied, compact style. Nevertheless, it should age nicely for a decade or more. - Robert M. Parker, Jr.