Château La Tour de By is a 73 hectare Cru Bourgeois estate at the tip of the Médoc. The vineyards are just metres from the water's edge (the Gironde) and enjoy excellent drainage. Not that drainage was a prerequisite for excellent wine in 2010, which saw some of the best harvest conditions for decades. Built on the ruins of a 19th century mill, La Tour de By is a beautiful château bought and renovated in 1965 by Messieurs Pages, Cailloux and Lapalu. It's a classic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, matured in oak barrels (20% new) for 14 months. Packed with fresh, spicy cassis and subtle, well integrated, toasty oak, the 2010 is lovely now and for the next 10 to 15 years with roast red meats and game.