2010 Alter Ego de Palmer, Margaux, Bordeaux

Hold on, just a minute here. This is supposed to be the frivolous, charming, uncomplicated, more fun younger brother to the intense, brooding, yet dashing elder sibling, Ch. Palmer. Judging by this stunning, more serious, but not vaguely stern offering, someone had better mention these personality traits to the château, for what they have created this year is a replica of the Grand Vin. Beautifully fine tannins surround a mighty, meaty, focused core of fresh, ripe blackberries and red fruit, all dancing around your palate, vying for your attention. It’s stunning and serious. Next year, I don’t mind how this younger brother turns out; both are electric.

Simon Staples, Berry Bros. & Rudd