2010 Le Serre Nuove

Mocha, espresso, savory herbs and graphite are all woven together in the 2010 Le Serre Nuove dell'Ornellaia. Tightly wound, vibrant and beautifully delineated, the 2010 isn't as open or approachable young as it usually is. Instead, readers will have to be patient with the 2010. Cool veins of saline minerality support the vibrant finish. Even with all of the tension that is present today, there is also an element of silkiness in the tannin that will emerge more fully over time. (AG) 92+

45% Merlot, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot. Unusual vintage. Cool and late ripening, so less Mediterranean than most. Malo completed in barrel (25% new). Bottled April 2012. 15 months' ageing but not blended until the separate components had had 12 months in barrel. Deep crimson, black core. Restrained and a little dusty, a little leafy, but finely ripe dark fruit. Gets riper as it warms up. Touch of chocolate and liquorice. Intense and pure. Lovely dry texture, firm but sweet tannins; rich yet showing finesse. (JH)

Very pretty aromas of chocolate, currants and light cream. Full and soft with fine tannins and a delicious finish. Why wait? But will improve with age.