2009 d'Issan, Margaux

“Wonderfully perfumed with dark berry, mineral and chocolate character. Full body, great tannins and a long and racy finish. Very refined. Tight and racy.” (03/2015)

“A strong effort from proprietor Emmanuel Cruse, d’Issan’s 2009 was fashioned from minuscule yields of 18 hectoliters per hectare, and its 13.7% natural alcohol set a record at this estate. Composed of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon and 38% Merlot, it exhibits a classic Margaux fragrance of acacia flowers/violets, blueberries, cassis, licorice and camphor. Opulent and full-bodied with silky tannins as well as a rich, dense style, it will be interesting to compare the 2009 with the brilliant 2000 and 2005 over the next two to three decades. (RP)” (02/2012)

“Bright medium ruby-red. Wild aromas of redcurrant, blueberry, mocha, smoke and game. Very rich and full for Margaux if a bit youthfully monolithic today following its silky entry, with black fruit flavors accompanied by medicinal chocolate and menthol elements. Has the stuffing and length to support its big, mouthdusting tannins. Offers impressive potential. (ST)” (07/2012)

“The 2009 d'Issan was affected by hail and reduced yields to 35hl/ha. It has a plush and extravagant bouquet with blueberries, damson and dark cherries, not quite delivering the delineation of the 2008 but undeniably seductive and pure. The palate is well balanced with fine-grain tannins: tarry black fruit intermingling with graphite and sea salt. It fans out gloriously towards the finish although it does not quite have the killer precision of the previous vintage that is currently more expressive. Tasted at the d’Issan vertical held at the property. (NM)” (07/2018)

“A taut but fresh style, with plum skin, mesquite and mineral notes running along. There's a solid core of steeped blackberry fruit in reserve, and the perfumy finish has latent grip. (JM)” (03/2012)