Appellations

Clos du Marquis 2014

St Julien, Second wine

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Tasting Notes

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.

Score: 92 Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2019-2039 Date: 31 March 2017

The Clos du Marquis 2014 is a blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc cropped at 33 hectoliter per hectare and matured in 50% new wood. Picked between 30 September and 13 October, it has a ripe, quite opulent bouquet with layers of blackberry, dark plum and incense, a touch of pencil lead with time. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, a little pinched at the moment but it will 'relax'. The alcohol level is one of the highest ever at 13.85% and yet it it counterbalanced by its freshness. In fact, the finish is quite classic in style and provides a pleasant juxtaposition with the more generous aromatics - it will be interesting to see how they develop during their élevage.

Score: 90 - 92 Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2018-2035 Date: 01 April 2015

Complex aromas of dried flowers, dark fruits such as currants and plums and then a wet-earth undertone. Wet licorice as well. Full body, firm and silky tannins and an entrancing finish. Tight and polished. Drink in 2022 but hard not to drink now.

Score: 95 James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com Date: 13 February 2017

The purity of fruit to this young wine is impressive with currants, raspberries and black cherries. Full body, firm and chewy tannins and a long, long finish. Very serious. Structured. Fine.

Score: 92 - 93 James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com Date: 20 March 2015

Attractive St Julien nose of graphite and wet stones. Cool, clean blackberries with plenty of freshness in the mouth, this is appetising and balanced.

Score: 91 - 93 Albany Vintners, - Date: 24 April 2015

Discreet nose. A bit austere, as though the less ripe fruit went into here. Very sinewy and lacks flesh.

Score: 16 - 17 Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com Maturity: 2022-2035 Date: 15 April 2015

The 2014 Clos du Marquis is quite pretty and expressive. Blue and purplish-hued fruit, sweet spices and mint all open up nicely in the glass. The 2014 is not a huge wine, rather it is distinguished by its energy, precision and overall nuance. Scents of violet, lavender, mint and sweet spices add complexity on the gracious, inviting finish. This is a lovely effort and a fabulous example of the vintage. The more feminine side of St. Julien comes through in spades. The blend is 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc.

Score: 90 - 92 Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Date: 01 April 2015

This has a subtle sauvage side, with a hint of dark olive and a smoldering tobacco note weaving around the core of fleshy plum sauce and steeped blackberry fruit. A touch firm on the finish for now, with a woodsy edge, but features more than enough

Score: 90 - 93 James Molesworth, Wine Spectator Date: 01 April 2015