One of the finest Cantenac Browns made in the last half century, the 2010 may be even more impressive than the 2009. Sweet, fat notes of blackberries, forest floor and earth emerge from this inky/purple-colored beauty. The tannins are slightly more serious and elevated than in the 2009, but the big, bold, full-bodied 2010 represents a remarkable turn around for this estate, which has now produced three straight top-flight vintages. It should drink well for 25-35 years.

Deep garnet in color, the 2010 Cantenac Brown has a rather feral/animal nose with notes of smoked meat, leather and game over a core of prunes, figs, mushrooms and dried herbs. Full-bodied, it has mature earthy/savory flavors with a chewy texture and lively backbone, finishing warm and herbal.

Well-extracted depth of cassis fruit, ripeness and length and more elegance than robustness than usual from this chateau. Drink 2015-25. (17.5 points)

93-95 Sweet new wood and fruit are laced with the freshest acidity. The tannins build up behind all this ripeness to give richness and balance.——R.V.(6/25/2011)—— 94