Chateau Potensac Medoc 2001

Always impressively made by Jean-Hubert Delon (the proprietor of Leoville Las Cases and Nenin), Potensac's 2001 is an elegant, medium-bodied Medoc offering dried herb and berry fruit characteristics in an open-knit, attractively fruity, pure style. Restaurants should be buying this one by the case for their patrons to enjoy now and over the next 7-8 years.

Impressive nose of meaty fruit and spices with ripe fruit. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and plenty of blackberry and currant character. Enticing. Hints of barley. I like this better than the 2000. Best after 2007

Solid and meaty – very rewarding for the age and price. Would make a great present, being cheaper and readier than it looks. A real bruiser that has more than a nod at a St-Estèphe.