Château La Serre Saint Emilion Grand Cru Grand Cru Classé 2009

The ruby red colour has slightly softened over 11 years ageing, but this still looks like a young wine in the glass. On the palate there is clear salinity, with a mouthwatering finish that gently grips on, helped by finely-structured tannins. Traces of campfire smoke, ash and embers on the finish too, gently curling up from the glass. The fruit majors on blackberry, wild strawberry and softened raspberry puree. You will find more powerful 2009s than this one, but it is gently delicious, and close to the perfect moment to open. No need for a long carafe. Hail in Spring meant they lost around one third of their usual crop, producing a yield of around 30hl/h. Consultant Stephane Toutoundji. 50% new oak.