2009 Franc Maillet

80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Jean-Baptiste Arpin purchased the original hectare of vines at this Pomerol estate on his return from the First World War. Gerard, grandson of Jean-Baptiste, has developed the estate in recent years with the help of his son Gaël, and it now extends over 5 hectares of prime land on the Pomerol plateau on clay based soils rich in iron oxide – “crasse de fer”. Following hand harvest the grapes underwent an eight day pre-fermentation maceration in temperature controlled vats. Fermentation took place in stainless steel vats and lasted for eight days, after which the wine was lightly micro-oxygenated. The wine was aged in French oak barrels, 70% new and 30% one year old, for 18 months prior to very light filtration and bottling. Some freshness and life. Easy to like and with real transparency despite the alcohol. Proper Pomerol character. Firm and correct but lots of rich fruit with a touch of fruitcake. Wait, but you should be rewarded. (JR)