From very small yields of 22 hectoliters per hectare, this wine flirted with perfection on each occasion I tasted it. It is a sensational effort – if you can find it. The wine is dense purple and stunningly rich, with lots of crushed rock and chalky notes from the limestone soils as well as blueberry and black berry liqueur intermixed with some smoky barbecue and an aroma that reminded me of tea-smoked duck. Thick, rich and full, its glycerine and concentration hide some rather lofty tannins This is another prodigious effort from proprietor Michel Gracia – it’s just a shame he doesn’t make more wine.

This miniature jewel of a property (all approximately five acres of it) has produced a world-class wine that is one of the superstars of the 2010 vintage although the impossibility of acquiring any of it is frustrating. Michel Rolland’s top consultant, Jean-Philippe Fort, who provides consulting advice at this estate, has produced a blend of 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon that hit 14.5% natural alcohol.

Score: 99 Robert Parker (RP), The Wine Advocate (WA), February 2013

The 2010 Gracia has a deep blackberry and briary scented bouquet with touches of fig and dates, maybe just a little over-mature compared to others. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, a little gamey in style with juniper and allspice towards the chewy finish. This is just opening for business (but it´s far from an almost perfect wine.) Tasted blind at Farr Vintners 10-Year On Bordeaux horizontal.

Score: 91+ Neal Martin (NM), Vinous Media (VM), April 2020