Hosanna 2008

Possibly as remarkable as both the 2009 and 2010, the 2008 Hosanna is one of the superstars of the vintage. Its dense plum/purple color is followed by aromas and flavors of spring flowers, black currants, boysenberries, white chocolate and forest floor. This irresistible, opulent, textured, fleshy 2008 should continue to drink well for 15-20+ years. Don-t miss it!

Shows blackberry tart on the nose, with hints of vanilla and spice. Full-bodied and slightly chewy, with an angular edge. Wait and see how this evolves

The outstanding 2008 Hosanna, a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, possesses the extraordinary complexity and aromatic intensity of a great vintage of Cheval Blanc. Unctuously-textured with a dense purple color, excellent richness, and dense black fruits intermixed with forest floor notes, this sensational wine will merit close to a three digit score when released. The tannins are high, but very ripe and melted, and the wine's purity is awesome. Give it 3-4 years of bottle age, and enjoy it over the following two decades.Owned by Christian Moueix, Hosanna's vineyard was culled from the tenderloin section of the estate formerly known as Certan-Giraud. The wine from the rest of that vineyard is now produced under the name Certan-Marzelle.

Tasted ex-château and single blind in Southwold. The Hosanna 2008 has a sweet and sour note that dissipates with time, coalescing into the classic liquorice-tinged, dark berried fruit laced with mint after time in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with dry tannins, a little tough at the moment and the Cabernet Franc is very expressive. Sinewy and introspective at the moment, this is a long-term Pomerol. Tasted January 2012.