Haut Marbuzet 2010

The 2010 Haut-Marbuzet has a typical Saint-Estèphe bouquet with broody black fruit, sage and dried blood aromas, all well defined with moderate intensity. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and a fine bead of acidity. This is quite fleshy towards the finish indicating a good proportion of Merlot, a decent 2010 albeit one that is more approachable than its peers. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners 10-Year On Bordeaux horizontal.

Deep garnet colored, the 2010 Haut-Marbuzet offers notions of sweaty leather, pencil lead and sautéed herbs with a core of baked blackberries and warm cassis plus a medicinal waft. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has mouth-coating black fruit preserves with loads of earthy/savory nuances and a chewy texture, finishing with lovely freshness. Drink 2020-2030.

This property continues to sort of muddle along, and rarely do I see something that would recall their glory days of the 1980s and early 1990s. This is a solidly made wine, the oak somewhat less aggressively presented than usual, but the wine has surprising acidity for a 2010, good smoky black cherry and black currant fruit, but the wood, toast and lack of concentration to back up such use of wood are apparent. Drink over the next 7-8 years.