Clos du Marquis (14) - Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot

Cabernet Sauvignon 74% Merlot 22% Cabernet Franc 4% 

After a relatively early budburst that followed the wet and mild winter, the coolness of May delayed the flowering and brought the dates of 2014 back around the averages of the past ten years. June and July were punctuated by stormy spells but the latter half of July was sunnier and hotter for the cluster closing and the colour change, improving the potential of development for phenolic compounds in the grapes. The fine weather then settled in from 15th August with mild temperatures that maintained good acidity levels. Then the month of September was among the hottest and sunniest of the decade, beneficial to the positive hydric stress that would bring smoothness to the tannins developing in the skins and pips. The careful mastery of the yield, vigour and early de-leafing all ensured the grapes remained perfectly healthy, making it possible to pick each grape variety at optimum ripeness.

Review

The 2014 Clos du Marquis, a blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc, has kept that soupçon of opulence that I observed when this was in barrel; it has layers of blackberry, raspberry coulis, incense and iris emerging from the glass whilst maintaining superb delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with a gentle grip on the entry. Graphite-infused red and black fruit on the front palate whilst the back is adorned with just a hint of blue fruit that lends this a more feminine allure. There is lovely balance here, fresh and focused with a touch of graphite borrowed from over the border in Pauillac. This is an excellent Clos du Marquis that will give 20 years of pleasure. 92/100 Neil Martin