2008 Chateau La Fleur de Gay, Pomerol

En primeur barrel sample. This is a superb Pomerol courtesy of Doc. Reynaud. Even though the nose is rather muted with blackberry and cassis aromas taking some coaxing, the palate is undeniably balanced, pure and as smooth as a baby's bottom. Finely tuned, vigorous, svelte in texture with a touch of -cola- on the finish. Lovely. Tasted March 2009.

Another outstanding success in a vintage that was very strong for Pomerol, the 2008 exhibits notes of plum sauce, raspberries, licorice and a hint of toasty oak. Surprisingly powerful for the vintage, the wine is medium to full-bodied with sweet tannin and a long finish. Drink it over the next 10-12 years.

Bright red-ruby. Complex nose offers mulberry, pipe tobacco, caramel, camphor and chocolate. Sweet, lush and fat with fruit; the seamless flavors of ripe mulberry and spices offer considerable early appeal. Finishes long, with very suave tannins. Drink over the next 10 to 15 years.