2010 Château Bernadotte

The 2010 Bernadotte is relatively subdued on the nose with earthy black fruit laced with smoke and tobacco. The palate is medium-bodied with rather scrawny tannins, moderate acidity but it is missing some cohesion and flesh towards the finish. A disappointing showing vis-à-vis previous bottles. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners 10-Year On Bordeaux horizontal.

Deep garnet colored, the 2010 La Bernadotte opens with a beguiling perfume of plum preserves, blueberry compote and blackcurrant pastilles plus hints of potpourri and dried lavender. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a fair bit of chew defining the muscular black fruits, finishing with a lively lift.

Tasted blind. Mid garnet with bricky rim. Lots of mature aromas here – undergrowth and leather but also sweet spice. Chewy, thick tannins but not heavy and although it is all tertiary, it’s an attractive whole. (JH)