| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | France > Bordeaux > Right Bank > Pomerol |
| Colour | Red |
| Type | Still |
Wow, did I underrate this wine from cask. I thought it was outstanding, but this wine is one of the superstars of the vintage. An extraordinarily provocative, exotic nose of a florist shop intermixed with raspberry and blueberry liqueur soars from the glass of this very aromatic/fragrant wine. Dense purple in color, with silky tannins, a full-bodied mouthfeel, great nobility and palate penetration, this is a sensational, compelling Pomerol to drink over the next 20-25 years.
A little more floral than the Le Gay, with intense fruit, yet held back. Full-bodied, with lots of chewy tannins and a powerful palate. A blockbuster style.
Poised and elegant. Aromatically shows great finesse. Beautifully textured tannins. Exquisite fruit. Long and complex. Drink 2018-2030.
Even though proprietor Catherine Pere-Verge and consultant Michel Rolland believe the 2009 is the better wine, I feel 2008 is the superior effort. Fashioned from ridiculously low yields of 20 hectoliters per hectare, the 2009 (100% Merlot) achieved 13.5% natural alcohol. La Violette appears to be the strongest wine in Catherine Pere-Verge's portfolio as it is richer than Le Gay. Soft, round, and opulent with a dark ruby/purple-tinged color, it offers up notes of sweet raspberries, black cherries, flowers, truffles, and a hint of lead pencil shavings. The 2009 will offer seductive drinking in 3-4 years, and should last for 15, but if I were a betting man, my money would be on the 2008 (and don't forget about the brilliant 2007). (Tasted three times, inconsistent notes). Drink 2013-2028.
Tasted at Chateau Le Gay. The Violette '09 has a well defined, subtle bouquet, almost understated compared to previous vintages, yet fragrant and almost floral in profile. Touches of dried apricot and Clementine just hovering off-stage. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannins, a wonderful sense of symmetry here although it is very linear and taut at the moment. Tightly-wound, very good grip, a touch of spice on the finish. This is a more masculine La Violette that should represent one of Pomerol's vin de gardes of the vintage. Tasted April 2010.
