2009 Moulin a Vent La Rochelle
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Tasting notes
Tasted from barrel in an approximation to the envisioned assemblage, Merlin’s 2009 Moulin-a-Vent La Rochelle – from vines planted in 1937 – displays complex aromas and flavors of cassis, blackberry, smoky-sweet machine oil, toasted nuts, peat, and graphite. Firm and substantial on the palate, it finishes with a fascinating interaction of fruit, mineral, and gamey carnal notes. Subsequent sulfuring and bottling may render this brighter and less low-toned. It displays a formidable streak of tannin, but I would be inclined to bet on its being worth following for a few years and perhaps even standing the test of a half dozen or more in bottle. A Becky Wasserman Selection, Le Serbet (various importers); fax 011-333-80-24-29-70
Critic scores
Average Score
David Schildknecht, Vinous
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Cask sample. 2006 was his first vintage here. Transparent crimson. Meaty, appetising nose. Lots of sweetness and chew. Dense and a little bit drying on the finish. Merlin’s Beaujolais are a little more severe/serious than most. (JR)
Tasted from barrel in an approximation to the envisioned assemblage, Merlin’s 2009 Moulin-a-Vent La Rochelle – from vines planted in 1937 – displays complex aromas and flavors of cassis, blackberry, smoky-sweet machine oil, toasted nuts, peat, and graphite. Firm and substantial on the palate, it finishes with a fascinating interaction of fruit, mineral, and gamey carnal notes. Subsequent sulfuring and bottling may render this brighter and less low-toned. It displays a formidable streak of tannin, but I would be inclined to bet on its being worth following for a few years and perhaps even standing the test of a half dozen or more in bottle. ||A Becky Wasserman Selection, Le Serbet (various importers); fax 011-333-80-24-29-70 Wine Advocate.August, 2010