Clos Payrol is a tiny estate in Pomerol on the right bank of Bordeaux.  By tiny, I mean that there are only 1466 bottles produced of the 2009 vintage tasted here.  The vines are situated on argilo-graveleux soils and are 35 to 50 years in average age.  To add further interest, the winemaker is Philippe Baillarguet of famed Saint-Émilion estate, Chateau Ausone.  What then of the wine?  100% merlot, this is merlot is it can be and, dare I say, as it should be.  Cigar box, blackberry and dark cherry aromatics feature.  The palate is textured with notes of dark chocolate and the finish is long.  An outstanding wine.

Rating: Very Good to Outstanding
Abv: 13.5%
Price: please ask
Source: sample
Vendors and website: http://bordeauxandbeyond.com
Tasted: 2015