2011 Bonnes Mares

Good dark red. Soil-driven aromas of underbrush, mocha and spicy herbs. Sweet, rich, lush and fine-grained, with nicely integrated acidity giving shape to the flavors of dark berries and menthol. In a distinctly supple style for young Bonnes-Mares but the long, juicy finish shows very good lift. Tannins are dusty and serious.

As is typically the case, this is noticeably less elegant but even more complex though it requires considerable swirling at this early stage to coax the aromas of plum, cassis, earth, spice and dried floral notes to reveal themselves. There is outstanding size, weight, power and punch to the broad-shouldered, intense, dense and velvety flavors that culminate in a palate staining finish that delivers flat out amazing length. This is a classic power without weight example of Bonnes Mares. Tasted: Apr 15, 2013. Drink: 2023+