SF | Deeply pigmented and aromatically expressive, the Marquis, we are told, weighs in a whole degree more ABV than the Grand Vin. Unusual, but not unprecedented. A pleasing, straightforward Marquis, eponymous aristocracy somewhat jettisoned in the name of approachability and an inclination to endure. 91
AJ | Dark, dense black-red. A very cool noseful: coal and anthracite beneath the chilled blackcurrants. Pure and sustained, and in its own way exciting. Oak rather evident at present. Ultra-concentrated (especially for a second wine) and dramatic, but I have to say it is terrific, too: driving purity and intensity and an astonishing fruit core. Gosh! It just has to be worth putting a case of this away for a while, just to see. Not so worried about the oak on the palate, as I hadn't been expecting fruit intensity of this order.Drink Dates: 2026 - 2038.