The 2009 Rauzan-Gassies has a refined bouquet with blackberry, cedar and light graphite notes, maybe a little closed down though, it opens nicely in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, and fine acidity. Chewy with plenty of blackberry and bilberry fruit laced with sea salt and brine towards the finish. Give it another coupe of years. Not amazing, but certainly one of the best recent vintages that I have encountered. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners’ 2009 Bordeaux tasting. - Neal Martin