2010 Clarendelle Rouge, Grand Vin de Bordeaux leather and pencil shavings on

leather and pencil shavings on the nose

and creamy toasty

more forward version of the 2009

fresh honeysuckle and tropical fruit

Aromas of juicy cherry

2010 Clarendelle Rouge, Grand Vin de Bordeaux leather and pencil shavings onThis wine, which is a blend of the three basic varietals planted in Bordeaux Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc is a major sleeper of the vintage and far exceeded my expectations, and that, of course, is all good news. Lots of red and black currant fruit, licorice, spice and soft tannins have resulted in a silky, opulently styled wine that far exceeds its humble origins and appellation. Drink it over the its first decade of life, although