Puech Haut Prestige Rouge, Château Puech-Haut 2010

Even better than the brilliant 09, with more elegance and freshness, the 2010 Chateau Puech-Haut Coteaux du Languedoc Saint-Drezery Cuvee Prestige is a custom cuvee made by Philippe Cambie and Eric Solomon. An absurd value and a blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 5% Mourvedre, and 5% Carignan that's aged half in concrete and half in neutral barrel, it possesses a vivid, semi-opaque purple color to go with captivating aromas of raspberry liqueur, cassis, fresh flowers, sappy underbrush, and licorice-like qualities that simply soar from the glass. On the palate, this impeccably put together Languedoc has a pure, polished profile, with a sappy, resinous tactile sensation in its full-bodied texture, perfect balance, and a long, seamless finish. While no lightweight, it is in no way over the top and has real poise and elegance that is married to plenty of power and depth. While it has the balance and tannin structure to evolve gracefully for upwards of a decade, I see no reason to hold off.

The 2010 is the second vintage we have carried from this exciting Languedoc property, who have legendary Rhone winemaker Philippe Cambie as their consultant. Deep, dark and broody, there is plenty going on in the glass but mainly notes of dark cherries, chocolates and spices. There is clearly some excellent, unobtrusive wine-making here. 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 5% Mourvedre and Carignan. Drink until 2017 comfortably, but delicious now!

The Bru family own this property that's on higher ground towards Pic St Loup. Fruit and structure so why bother with barrels?! Lively and round and juicy with great balance and lift. Persistence too. The famous Philippe Cambie of the southern Rhône consults. This was brought to the attention of a sceptical Farr by a friend of the son of the owner and is now one of their biggest sellers. Drink 2012-2015

Deep inky red with a character not dissimilar to CDP. Terrific structure good fruit that you'll still be tasting after a minute.