Club des 5

2011-2010-2009 tasting organized by the Club des 5 for Bordeaux trade and brokers.

Smith Haut Lafitte, red and white, Gazin, Branaire Ducru, Canon La Gaffelière and L’Oratoire, Aiguilhe, La Mondotte were presented. Many people attended, 2011 tasted much better than a month ago, proof that the vintage is improving with the barrel aging. 2010 and 2009 were really good but that’s not news. The atmosphere was quite joyful, despite a futures campaign which looks to be challenging, added to the tough economic environment following two exceptional vintages, forces you to be really cautious. Furthermore, all the critics have not released their notes and comments, especially the Wine Advocate due out on April 26/27.

On JancisRobinson.com , Julia Harding MW published her notes and comments on April 19 on 2011 Margaux appellation including Bellevue de Tayac, newly promoted Cru Bourgeois, giving it a 16.5. This places this wine just after Palmer 18.5, Margaux 17.5, Alter Ego de Palmer and Issan 17:

Ch Bellevue de Tayac 2011 Margaux 16.5 Drink 2016-2022
Smudgy dark cherry, black core. Spicy blackberry fruit and a touch of chocolate, floral too. Then lots of vanilla on the palate – tastes more right bank than left – though the tannins are velvety. Rich and generous. Nothing skinny here though there's plenty of freshness. A fruity, harmonious whole with none of the faults of the vintage. Sweet aftertaste. (JH)