Chateau Fayat 2009

I missed on this one completely from the barrel, rating it entirely too high. It is certainly a good wine, with notes of chocolate, mocha and espresso as well as hints of mulberries and black cherries, but it is nowhere near the level of concentration the barrel sample had suggested. This blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc is medium-bodied deep plum/ruby in color, and best drunk over the next 7-8 years.

Lighter-bodied, with a racy edge to the damson plum and bitter cherry flavors, flecked with grilled herb notes and framed by judicious toast. A touch loose in the end. Drink now through 2016. 3,750 cases made.

Elegant nose, with some earthy and mineral hints, wild berries, blackcurrant, plum and laid-back oak, plus some elegant roasted notes. The palate is medium-bodied and elegant, showing soft tannins and high freshness, good purity and discreet fruit, with a clean, long finish.

Fully mature, yet with plenty of charm, the 2009 Château Fayat (90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc) offers lots of red and black currants, cedary spice, dried earth, and chocolate. Soft, supple, and elegant on the palate, it drops off on the finish yet is still a complex, satisfying wine. Drink up.

Flavorful and full-bodied, rich and dense, a very well-crafted and appealing Pomerol with great potential.

This sample is dense, compact, spicy, and taut. It still needs to loosen up during élevage.

Dark, deep purple color. Animal nose rather than fruity. Soft, fruity palate with little relief. Medium length.