(a blend of 70% merlot, 20% cabernet franc and 10% cabernet sauvignon; 28 hectoliters per hectare; 14.5% alcohol) Very deep, opaque purple. Aromas of plum jelly, cassis, truffle and underbrush on the flamboyant, exotic nose and palate. A very pure Pavie, with enough acidity to carry the ripe fruit flavors through a long finish. Tannins are substantial and chewy but not dry, although one other sample I tried was marred by astringent tannins. This should age effortlessly.

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Painfully powerful, backward and super-concentrated, this 2010 is a blend of 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon cropped at 26 hectoliters per hectare. The harvest, as usual, was late by the standards of the appellation, occurring between October 12 and October 19. The alcohols are surprisingly modest by 2010 standards, 14.2%. As usual, this is one of the top wines of the vintage, but it needs a good decade of cellaring. It is much more backward and restrained than the 2009 was at the same stage, and seems even more tannic and structured than the 2005. It is a monumental wine for true connoisseurs who have the patience and discipline to cellar it for a good decade. Anticipated maturity: 2025-2060+.

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