Those who prefer a young wine can begin to appreciate this very fine bottle in 2012 if it is transferred to a carafe three hours before serving; their reward will be the development of spicy, black fruit aromas typical of this growth. The wine's complexity is satisfyingly paradoxical: concentration and elegance, liveliness and softness. Just the color alone shows the deep, stylish garnet color typical of a great wine, and this impression is confirmed by its aromatic complexity. Beautifully long with a fresh finish.

For those who prefer more mature wines, Cantemerle 2009 can continue cellar aging for five, ten, or even fifteen years more; this will bring out its pedigree, with boldly expressive yet finely delicate aromas perfectly representative of its vintage and its terroir. But will these wine lovers be able to resist opening the bottle before then?

Blend: 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot, 6% Cabernet Franc