Crushed stone and chalky minerality characteristics dominate this wine’s moderate aromatics. Pure black cherry fruit, abundant tannin and a medium-bodied mouthfeel are present, and the concern is that the tannins may outlive the fruit component. However, the nobility and class of this great terroir are apparent. Hold this 2011 for another 2-3 years and drink it over the following 12-15. Given past performances, this is a major disappointment.

This tiny 3-acre vineyard, situated next to the cemetery in St.-Emilion, has produced a deep ruby/purple-hued 2011 offering a big, sweet nose of black cherry jam intermixed with chalk dust, wet stone and spicy oak characteristics, medium body, and good glycerin and richness. Tasting quite primary, it had probably just finished malolactic, so it should flesh out even more as it ages in barrel.

Unlike the lovely Les Grandes Murailles, this sample of Clos Saint Martin is showing just a little over-ripeness. Not much, just a little. Hedonists will probably like it more than I. The palate is better with firm, quite grippy tannins and a good weight of fruit, although the new oak is nudging in towards the finish. Good substance here and it may merit a higher score in bottle. Tasted April 2012.