As the Bordeaux harvest draws to a close, the expectation surrounding the 2010 vintages continues to rise.

Frederic Bonnaffous, head winemaker in Medoc and St Emilion at Vins & Vignobles Dourthe, told the Drinks Business that the potential of this year's grapes is "unquestionable".

With concentrations of tannins and colour in the Merlot said to be higher than those found in last year's grapes, Mr. Bonnaffous believes that 2010 will be "at least on a par" with 2009, thanks to the meticulous approach taken by vintners.

"We have successfully managed water shortages by adapting strict vineyard practices at our properties to take into account the individual soil types and leaf surface area," he told the publication.

Chateaux will be hoping that Bordeaux 2010 proves as popular with the buying public as the 2009 vintage has been.

Wine Spectator noted earlier this week that demand for top Bordeaux drove values up by nine per cent in the third quarter of the year.