2011 Chateau La Violette, Pomerol 6x750ml

Vinous 90-93

Medium-deep ruby-red. Pure aromas of cassis and minerals, with complicating notes of mocha, mint and licorice. Bright, suave and densely packed, showing very good energy and intensity to the flavors of cassis, graphite and fresh violet. The long, perfumed finish features a flavor of crushed blackberry and a whiplash of harmonious acidity. Another wine in the stable of Catherine Pere-Verge that seems much less extracted than usual and reminiscent of the excellent 2008 made here. [Ian D’Agata, 01/05/2012]

Robert Parker 93-95

Copious aromas of kirsch, raspberry and black currant fruit are followed by a silky, opulent wine with ripe tannin as well as tremendous fruit intensity. The remarkable thing about La Violette is that once you have tasted a few vintages, you will never forget this wine. It is reminiscent of a hypothetical blend of nearby Lafleur and the grand cru Burgundy, Musigny. This 2011 should drink well young, but last 15 or more years. It’s a shame so little of this wine is made by proprietress Madame Pere-Verge. One of the most singular and intriguing wines of Bordeaux, smelling the 2011’s extraordinary bouquet is akin to walking into a parfumerie. [Robert Parker, 04/01/2012]

Anticipated maturity: 2012-2027

JancisRobinson.com 16.5

100% Merlot. Destemmed by hand and fermented, after cold maceration, in 100% new oak barrels. Sweet and chocolatey. Much more savoury and dense than Le Gay. Richer but less giving and needs more time. Tannins are dense but very polished. Long and rich. (JH) [04/01/2012]

Anticipated maturity: 2020-2030