Summer in spring, autumn in summer and spring in autumn. What’s known as a winemaker’s vintage. And luckily we have one of the best. That coupled with excellent sorting and a well timed harvest lead to a wine that is utterly seductive right now. Thierry Garnaud’s 17th vintage with us, and his 30th at Cheval Blanc.

• ‘Very impressive in the context of a rather challenging vintage. This is starting to open beautifully and has exceptionally well-defined, soft tannins for a vintage which is typically far more rustic. An excellent mouthfeel and, again, great persistence. Tasted blind one would not pick the vintage and one might well imagine oneself the other side of the appellation boundary – in Pomerol itself. Still improving, but already highly accessible.’ Colin Hay (Decanter, The Drink Business)
• ‘…a lovely, easygoing mulberry-scented bouquet with light bay leaf and brown spice scents. The palate is medium bodied with a supple entry, a fine bead of acidity, and mainly red fruit. The lively, balsamic finish feels fresh and long, although it does not quite hold up in the glass for as long as I hope… this is drinking perfectly at the moment. 2020-2025', Neal Martin (Vinous)
• 'The 2011 gives off persistent and subtle aromas of ripe red berries, structured, with round tannins, to be enjoyed with morel puff pastry or pork filet with vegetables'. Guide Dussert Gerber 2011