Deep garnet in color, the 2010 Larcis Ducasse opens a little subdued, offering glimpses of tobacco leaf, cast-iron pan and dusty soil over a core of raisin cake and Indian spices plus a touch of figs. Full-bodied, rich and seductive, it has firm, plush tannins and bags of freshness, finishing long and spicy.

This is deep and powerful and right from the nose you’re taken up to another level. I can feel the layers of flavour here; black olive is just the beginning of the richness of this with black cherry, raspberry and cassis getting bedded down for the long term and tannins that know exactly what to do. 60% new oak was used.