Tasting Notes
Neal Martin 91
The 2009 Chasse-Spleen has a simple, earthy bouquet, a little dustiness at first although that soon dissipates with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly soft tannin on the entry, moderate depth, well-judged acidity with a sandalwood and tobacco infused finish that has a spring in its step. A very fine for Chasse-Spleen, although not my personal favourite vintage. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners 2009 Bordeaux tasting.
Anticipated maturity: 2020-2040
Stephen Tanzer 88
Bright, moderately saturated red-ruby. Raspberry and licorice aromas and flavors are lifted by a violet topnote. Juicy and nicely ripe, with harmonious acidity energizing this medium-bodied wine. Finishes with firm tannins, a note of fresh herbs and good length, turning a bit dry as it opened in the glass.
Vinous 87-90
Dark red. Violet, sweet smoky oak and a hint of black pepper on the inviting, perfumed nose. Easygoing and sweet, with pliant flavors of black cherry, dark berries and smoky milk chocolate. Finishes with round tannins and subtle sweet, spicy length. Not a gripping style but very typical of Chasse Spleen, if more concentrated and complex than the last few vintages.
Wine Advocate 90
Beautiful blueberry, black raspberry and cassis fruit as well as incense and graphite jump from the glass of this inky ruby/purple-colored wine. Ripe, medium to full-bodied, dense and rich, this is one of the stars of Moulis in 2009. Given its low acidity but abundant tannin, I suspect it could close down in a few years and last two decades.
JancisRobinson.com 17
Full bottle 1,307 g. 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot. Transparent, shaded garnet. Round and ripe yet with good freshness. I’m tasting this straight from the cellar and it has responded well to a serving temperature of 13 C. Very refreshing, well-balanced wine in which the tannins have receded, leaving quite a complex, minerally amalgam of mature fruit without a hint of dryness. I suspect the serving temperature has elevated this particular bottle above that tasted in October 2022. (JR)
Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029
