2009 Château Tronquoy de Sainte-Anne

Even the second wine, the 2009 Tronquoy Lalande de Ste.-Anne, is a revelation. Composed of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon and 33% Merlot, it is a big, juicy, fruit-driven Bordeaux with copious notes of black fruits, earth, and spice. Enjoy it during its first 3-4 years of life. Bravo! (Tasted once.) This estate, which was acquired by the international telecommunications giant, the French-based Martin Bouygues, has produced their finest wines to date under the guidance of Jean-Bernard Delmas (who made every Haut-Brion between 1961 and 2003). Delmas, who was coaxed out of retirement to apply his enviable talents in St.-Estephe, is a master at attaining sweet tannins, which is always a challenge in this northern appellation.

36% of production. 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot. Very rich and sweet on the nose. Easy and sweet and quite delicate. Very dry on the finsh but utterly charming and flattering until you get to that slightly drying finish. (JR)