Lots of dark berries and mushrooms with some walnuts and bark. Hints of coffee, too. Medium-bodied with medium, round tannins that are resolved and creamy. Juicy and delicately fruity finish, Merlot, cabernet franc and cabernet sauvignon. Ready to drink.

An amazing effort in this vintage, La Vieille Cure has been one of the top 3 or 4 Fronsacs in most recent vintages. The 2011 is fashioned from 75% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon. Many consumers will probably drink this wine entirely too young (and I have no problem with that), there is no doubt it has serious aging potential. A true revelation, this sleeper of the vintage is one of the finest wines money can buy. The dense ruby/purple color is followed by a sumptuous palate impression of silky black cherries and blackberries intermixed with wild strawberries. Opulent and rich with the abundant glycerin and lavish concentration concealing moderate tannins, this is a sensational effort in this challenging vintage. With nearly 14% natural alcohol as well as tremendous ripeness, it should drink well for 10+ years. This sleeper of the vintage merits consumer attention. - Robert M. Parker, Jr.