The 2012 Les Asteries, composed of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc planted in limestone soils, is one of the top wines in Malthus’s 2012 portfolio. It possesses a deep ruby/purple color along with copious aromas of crushed rocks, spring flowers, blue and black fruits and a hint of licorice. The wine is medium to full-bodied, surprisingly rich, ripe and full-throttle. Readers who love minerality in addition to copious quantities of ripe fruit and power will love this effort from a challenging vintage. It should keep for 10-11 years. This micro-production (around 450-500 cases) estate is owned by Englishman Jonathan Malthus.

Composed of 83% Merlot and 17% Cabernet Franc, the 2011 Les Asteries ranks alongside the 2009 and 2010. One of the bigger wines of the vintage, it exhibits an inky/purple color as well as notes of graphite, roasted coffee, melted chocolate, creme de cassis and kirsch. It is an impressive, thick, rich offering that can be drunk early in life or cellared for two decades.

Fairly powerful rendering of this limited edition wine. Limestone terroir shows. Dark fruit and graphite notes. Builds to a firm finish. Drink 2018-2028. (17 points)