1970 Poujeaux
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The 1970 Poujeaux comes from a strong era for the Moulis estate. I am glad the bottle was consumed over a two-hour period, since it turned a little acetic after half an hour but then underwent a Damascene resurrection and blossomed after an hour in the glass, ending up even better than when first poured. A little turbid in color with a tawny rim, it has an attractive, classic Médoc bouquet of melted tar, cigar box, black fruit and sandalwood. It is not powerful, yet defined and focused. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly rigid tannins that melt with aeration. After its acetic phase, when it manifests overt soy aromas, it coalesces wonderfully, revealing notes of thyme and tobacco on the satisfyingly fresh finish. It is no blockbuster, but it is certainly a lovely Moulis that proves how well Poujeaux lasts in bottle.
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Neal Martin
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
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The 1970 Poujeaux was proffered by current proprietor Mathieu Cuvelier when I was over on the Right Bank. Old vintages of this Moulis can be a surprise. This 46-year-old wine was a little faded, but still yielded pleasure, the nose earthy, a little bony perhaps but still with vestiges of tart red cherries. The palate is medium-bodied with dry tannins, light in the mouth but balanced and fresh, leafy and herbaceous towards the finish. It held up for 30-40 minutes in the glass before taking its final breaths and oxidizing. Old school for sure, at the end of its plateau, without doubt, but I would still welcome it again for the next 4-5 years. Tasted March 2016.
About the producer
The Cuvelier family, which also owns Clos Fourtet, purchased this estate in 2008. It is one of the stars of the appellation, renowned for producing wine that is well above the standard of its neighbours.