“A blend of 75% Cabernet Franc and 25% Merlot, it displays an ethereal elegance allied with substantial flavor authority and intensity, seemingly regardless of vintage conditions. This 7-acre vineyard boasts no other than Angelus as one of its most prestigious neighbors. Enormous quantities of berry fruit intermixed with sweet, damp forest floor, graphite, licorice, and oak notes are found in this intense, full-bodied, supremely elegant wine. Sadly, there are fewer than 1,000 cases in 2008. It should drink well for two decades or more. This is the winery that made everyone recognize what Jonathan Maltus was doing in St.-Emilion. The expatriate from England produces this cuvee, which may possess the highest percentage of Cabernet Franc in the St.-Emilion appellation."

This shows a smokier, fleshier profile, with lots of tobacco leaf, spice and mulled plum fruit, all laced with a streak of earth that pushes nicely through the toasty, espresso-tinged finish. Drink now through 2015. 830 cases made. -JM

Deep, dark and reserved. Tight, textured with dark fruit notes. Plentiful tannins finely honed. Well handled extraction. Subdued but with an edge of finesse.

Smooth, perfumed and elegant, this Cabernet Franc-dominated wine has rounded tannins, layered acidity and a dark power of ripe tannins. It is both concentrated and fresh, a great combination.——R.V.(4/1/2011)—— 94