Chataeu Tourteran Haut Medoc 2010

When all the dust settled, it almost also seemed like a dream. On the heels of an epic 2009 vintage, the 2010 vintage in Bordeaux was otherworldly, good enough for 99-points from Wine Enthusiast, 98-points from Wine Spectator and most people confidently throwing around phrasing such as the ‘Best Ever Vintage in Bordeaux.”

In particular, the Left Bank really shined. Treated to hot, dry conditions, the Cabernet Sauvignon from the 2010 vintage was a dream. Decanter called it, “A truly great vintage, optimally ripe but with firm acidity and tannins.” 2009 showed off elegance and suppleness, but the 2010s were all about power.

Knowing all of this early, the public went nuts – especially those who lost out on precious 2009s and vowed not to make the same mistake twice. All of the best Chateau saw their bottles disappear in records time, and we barely saw 2009s or 2010s a few years after their original release.

But when a sample came on my desk last week with a note that said 2010 Bordeaux, I just assumed it was a joke – one of the suppliers trying to suggest an obscure Chilean Carmenere blend to me but in a humorous way to get my attention. But after reading the label and then popping open the wine, it was unmistakably and unapologetically a 2010… and it was excellent.