Chateau Blason D'issan Margaux 2008

The second wine of Issan. This is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, represents 36% of the harvest, and will see 35% new oak. The volume is up this year as 10 hectares of Issan vineyards with the Haut-Médoc appellation have been reclassified in October 2007 as AC Margaux, and the fruit has been included here. The nose is crisp, with black fruits, perfumed liquorice and a little sweetness. Lean and stony on the palate, although there is a sweet character to the fruit. Stylish in the middle, but harder on the finish. Fresh, well judged, with some substance and appealing notes of vanilla and raspberry.