The 2009 Palmer is unquestionably one of the greatest young Bordeaux I've tasted, and it has a rare mix of richness and elegance that's incredible. Blackcurrants, violets, lead pencil shavings and a touch of minerality all emerge from this rich, massively concentrated Margaux that still glides across the palate with no sense of weight or heaviness. It's perfectly balanced, has a ripe, hedonistic core of fruit, as well as integrated acidity. It's a dream today, but is going to have 30-40 years or more of prime drinking.

Deep garnet colored, the 2009 Palmer delivers a beguiling array of black fruit-warm plums, cassis and black cherry compote-with kirsch and wild sage sparks plus profound suggestions of fragrant earth, black truffles, iron ore and liquid licorice. Full-bodied, rich and decadently seductive in the mouth, the generous fruit is superbly framed with plush tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and mineral laced.

A beautiful wine, with the firmest tannins surrounded by perfumed fruit. It is dense, of course, but this density is balanced with great elegance, blackberry fruits, sweetness and final juicy acidity. The wine is structured, a powerhouse of concentration while preserving this complete style.

Bright medium red. Very ripe aromas of boysenberry, chocolate, violet and minerals. Wonderfully silky and intense, with terrific complexity to its dark berry, floral and minerals flavors. Most impressive today on the building, vibrant finish, which boasts a solid structure for at least mid-term aging. With 72 hours in the recorked bottle, this wine showed a texture of liquid velvet, with its seductive raspberry and chocolate flavors kept fresh by sound acidity. A beauty.

This is on another level from most in the appellation, with gorgeous layers of warm currant confiture, smoldering tobacco, licorice snap, warm paving stone and anise all framed by tarry but integrated grip. Stays sleek and well-defined through the finish. Should age beautifully. Best from 2015 through 2030. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 9,500 cases made.