2001 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, St Julien, Bordeaux

One of Bordeauxs shining lights in terms of both quality and consistency over the last decade, the 2001 is no exception. As with the other wines in Franois-Xavier Bories care the beautiful, pure ripeness of fruit and vanilla oak hints immediately win you over. But Ducru is in another league to its stablemates. Viscous yet deliciously silky, it boasts blackberries and cream, spices, leather and firm ripe tannins on the palate. With a generous 30% Merlot in the blend, this is as well-balanced, elegantly structured and rewarding as ever. Drink 2008-2025.