2010 Chateau La Violette, Pomerol 6x750ml

Vinous 96

Deep red-ruby. Rich aromas and flavors of cassis, dark cherry, cedar and minerals, complemented by sexy oak nuances. Rich but not excessively weighty on the palate, offering an outstanding combination of density and intensity of flavor. Finishes with noble, fine-grained tannins and subtle notes of black pepper and herbs. Less dainty and floral than the 2009, but with greater depth. As with many wines from the late Catherine Pere-Verge’s portfolio, the tannins here have smoothed out considerably since the Primeurs. [Stephen Tanzer, 01/07/2013]

Robert Parker 93

Tasting La Violette straight after Le Gay, I have to state for the record that I prefer the latter. As is the style of La Violette, it is far more decadent on the nose with precocious ripe red fruit, a lot of glycerine and more new oak that will need bottle age to be subsumed. The palate is full-bodied with opulent ripe, dark plum, creme de cassis fruit that is almost viscous in texture. The finish is sweet and decadent although the acidity keep it in check. It is a fine Pomerol for sure, although I discern more personality and drinkability with Le Gay this year. Tasted November 2012. [Neal Martin, 11/01/2012]

JancisRobinson.com 17.5

Tasted blind. Deep garnet with a soft pink rim. Gorgeously seductive red-fruits nose, just a little bit meaty – and more so in the glass. Firm and more savoury on the palate but still packed with fruit sweetness. Thick but smooth tannins. I don’t know if the meatiness has anything to do with brett but at the moment it is not excessive. (JH) [02/12/2020]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2035