Robert Parker, tasting note published in March 10th 2013
The 2010 Palmer is one of the superstars of the vintage, a blend of 54% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Petit Verdot, which is only slightly different from what I indicated two years ago. The alcohol level has reached 14.5%, and the wine comes across as a more stacked and concentrated version of its 2000. It's tannic and retrograde, but has a sensational black/purple colour and a stunning nose of camphor, barbecue smoke, blackberries and cassis. Full-bodied, with glycerine oils but a relatively healthy pH, this wine has a precision and freshness that contradicts its high alcohol content and extravagant concentration. This is a sensationally rich, big-volume Palmer that may well end up being one of the best wines ever made at this estate. It needs a good 7-10 years cellaring and should keep for 50 or more years. There is no doubt that Thomas Duroux and the folks at Palmer are producing top quality wines, and have been doing so for nearly a decade.
In terms of quality, 2010 benefited from exceptionally favourable weather, as did the 2009 vintage. After a late start to the growing season that protected the vines from spring frosts, bud break took place evenly in April. Fertilisation was greatly disrupted by a cold and wet period in June, which caused very scattered flowering and led to a significant amount of coulure, reducing hopes of a large harvest. July was particularly warm, eliminating any heterogeneity in the vines after flowering, and véraison occurred quickly. This beautiful weather lasted without interruption until the end of the harvest. Thanks to this, we were able to take our time to harvest each plot at peak ripeness. Although the alcohol content is very high, as in 2009, the acidity is synonymous with freshness – and the tannin concentration is higher, making the wines extremely solidly based. Their power, combined with
a high level of acidity, gives them the potential to become references, and for this to be a legendary vintage. They are like a finely cut diamond that, with time, will fully express all the delicacy of the Château Palmer terroir.
Allergens information
Contains sulphites.
SKU: 105877
Château Palmer
The nature of Château Palmer. In the heart of Margaux,
66 hectares of gravel and pasture looking out over the Gironde.
Between this soil, rich in centuries of history, and its
microclimate, the vines are fixed in turn by the
the men and women of the estate.
A terroir, three varieties of grapes: the horizon of Château Palmer.
Address
Château Palmer, 33460 Margaux-Cantenac, France.
Tel:
+33 5 57 88 72 72
Fax:
+33 5 57 88 37 16
