Vintners in Bordeaux are expecting to follow 2009 Bordeaux with another excellent vintage after assessing the state of the 2010 harvest.

Chateau Mouton Rothschild winemaking director Philippe Dhalluin told Harpers Wine & Spirit Trades Review that even at this early stage, 2010 is comparable to 1986 or 1996 "but probably better".

Alcohol contents are also expected to be high. "Merlots at 15 per cent ABV are not rare, and Cabernet Sauvignons approach 14 per cent ABV," Mr Dhallian told the publication.

The weather conditions in Bordeaux were very warm and dry this summer, with record sunlight producing small, concentrated berries with deep colour, added Jean-Claude Berrouet of Chateau Petrus.

Frederic Bonnaffous, head winemaker in Medoc and St Emilion at Vins & Vignobles Dourthe, told the Drinks Business recently that 2010 Bordeaux is "on a par" with 2009.

He told the news provider that concentrations of tannins and colour in the Merlot grapes were higher than those found in last year's crop.