| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | France > Bordeaux > Right Bank > Pomerol |
| Colour | Red |
| Type | Still |
The flagship estate of Dany and Michel Rolland that was recently sold to Chinese buyers, this blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc possesses a dark ruby/purple color as well as abundant aromas of sweet kirsch, cassis, licorice and plums. Full-bodied and impressively endowed, it is another successful wine in a tough vintage. It should hit its peak in 3-4 years and last 15 or more thereafter.
Tasted en primeur on two occasions. The Le Bon Pasteur deserves time in glass so that it can meld together. It offers macerated dark cherries and a touch of fresh dates all cloaked in vanillary new oak. The palate is medium-bodied with gentle grip on the entry. It displays saturated tannins that are quite fine, layers of toasty black fruit mingling with cassis and blueberry that lead to a rounded smooth finish. A second sample was showing a little more dryness than the first. Not as complex as the 2009 or 2010 but very seductive for the vintage. Tasted April 2012.
This is full-bodied, with gorgeous berry and chocolate character. Beautiful, velvety tannins and bright acidity. Needs two or three years to soften. The clarity of fruit is exceptional here. Try in 2016.
One of the best young wines I've had from Dany and Michel Rolland's Pomerol property, especially praiseworthy in a demanding vintage. This is a classic Right Bank Merlot, all flesh and perfume and grainy tannins with length on the palate and good ageing potential. The gentleness of the wine is most welcome here. 8+ years.
Ripe and creamy on the nose and palate (partly the oak). Structured but a touch drying on the finish.
The flagship estate of Dany and Michel Rolland (by the way, Rolland's autobiography has recently been published and it is highly recommended), Bon Pasteur's 2011 is a strong effort in this difficult vintage. Yields were tiny, resulting in a concentrated, intense wine with a deep ruby/purple color as well as notes of mulberries, boysenberries, caramel, truffles and flowers. Medium to full-bodied with adequate acidity, velvety tannins and a plush, savory, expansive mouthfeel, it should drink well for 15 or more years.
The ripe tannins in this wine give a beautiful impression and the ripe yet reserved fruit match nicely. Full and very integrated. Elegant and sexy.
