La Croix de Beaucaillou 2008

An outstanding wine and a great sleeper of the vintage, this second wine exhibits a denser purple color along with a sweet kiss of creme de cassis, licorice, incense and graphite. Fruity and medium to full-bodied , with an impressive texture and supple tannins, this wine should drink well for 10-15 years.

A second wine has improved immensely under the administration of Bruno Borie, and the 2008 Croix de Beaucaillou is a sensual effort displaying sweet tannins, copious quantities of black currant and blueberry fruit, medium to full body, and a long finish with no hard edges. A blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot, it should drink beautifully for 15 or more years.Bruno Borie deserves accolades for the remarkable things he has accomplished at Ducru Beaucaillou over the last few years.

Tasted ex-château and single blind in Southwold. This has a lovely, classic undergrowth scented bouquet with some fine black earthy fruit with overt cedar notes, almost Saint Estèphe-like. The palate is medium-bodied with strong tobacco notes on the entry, good depth, a little coarse and rustic and charming on its spicy finish. Very fine but surprisingly austere for La Croix. Tasted January 2012.