2010 Cardus de La Cardonne 'Cuvée Grande Réserve', Médoc

Upon pouring it's hard to recognise that this is now an impressive 15 years from harvest, such is the depth of colour in the core of the glass. But then gaze more deeply, and the ever so slightly paling brick-red brim gives visual cues as to what is to follow.

The aromas really reflect the maturity, plum and blackcurrant are present, but it is those wonderful tertiary flavours that really show; leather, tree bark and toasty oak are all there, with brambly hedgerow fruit and spice.

The palate is really quite elegant, much more red berry fruit that I was expecting from the aromas; a touch of dried cranberry and red cherry, again these are nicely present, but within just a few seconds of tasting it's those tertiary flavours that emerge and hold long on the palate. Leather, polish a hint of woodsmoke and sweet spice and a meaty character, wrapped up with velvety smooth tannins and delicate warming oak.

The finish is wonderfully long, and if you're patient enough to hold off an immediate return for another taste, you'll be further rewarded as the flavours continue to unravel with spice-infused red berry fruit raising its head once more.

In conclusion...
I was very pleasantly surprised at how balanced this wine is, 15 years from harvest, it strikes a chord between those mature nuances that offer so much intrigue and pleasure to the claret enthusiast, and a bright, red-berry and dried fruit charm and freshness. It really is a very 'classic' style of claret, there's a lot to enjoy here, not least the price.

Drink Now 2029 | James Russell-Grant | Mr.Wheeler