60% merlot 30% cabernet franc and 10% cabernet sauvignon. 13.9% potential alcohol. From a 32-hectare estate on the St. Emilion cote just south of the town of St. Emilion. Soils are sandy clay with a significant iron component. Average vine age is 30+ years. Aged in 60% new oak. Dense opaque purple. Revealing little initial bouquet the barest hint of fruit appears with air. The palate is balanced with round densely textured black cherry fruit. With subtle tannins the deep medium to full-bodied fruit continues on toward a fine subtly firm finish. Will provide great drinking for the next two decades. From the Gerard Perse portfolio. Tasted three times.

A classic Monbousquet, the dense ruby/purple-tinged 2011 possesses abundant blueberry and raspberry fruit intermixed with hints of espresso roast and minerals. Composed of 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, it admirably displays the heights a brilliant winemaking team with an unwavering commitment to excellence can achieve from one of the less prestigious terroirs of St.-Emilion. This beauty should provide plenty of pleasure over the next 8-10 years. - Robert M. Parker, Jr.