Chateau Palmer, Margaux, Bordeaux 2015 (6 x 75cl)

The eponymous General Charles Palmer purchased this estate in 1814 having stumbled across the region whilst making his way back home after the Battle of Toulouse. The General moved in high society and marketed his wine successfully in London. The current owners are the Sichel family and the negociant company Mahler-Besse. The vineyards are renowned for their high percentage of Merlot plantings (47%); contrary to the popular theory that one plants one’s best gravel croupes with Cabernet Sauvignon. It is this high percentage of Merlot that gives the wine such a seductive texture and such an exotic character. The estate’s second wine, Alter Ego (previously Reserve de General) is also excellent. legend from this brilliant estate.

Thomas Duroux and his team have now taken Chateau. Palmer to another level, and that their 2005 was not a one-off, should anyone have thought of that. It now really has the power, grace, sophistication and poise of a First Growth and has more charm than some. Where does 2010 sit amongst such amazing recent regal triumphs? Is it better than their thrilling 2009 and spellbinding 2005? It is really hard to say. The complexity, concentration, intensity and sheer pleasure-giving punch may well make this the finest of that glorious trinity. Exceptional, but I hope they try and keep a lid on the price. (54% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot)