Bordeaux

Dark red with a purple hue, the nose is redolent of black fruit with some mocha and coffee notes. Fresh and full-bodied, there are crisp tannins with a finely tuned layer of spice giving way to a well-balanced, long finish.

Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon 62%, Merlot 35%, Cabernet Franc 3%

{***}{region}Pauillac{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                         

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 93/100

 [] Vinous:: 94/100  

[] Jancis Robinson:: 17/20  

[] James Suckling:: 95-96/100{ratings} {***}

The 2015 Les Forts de Latour is silky, perfumed and wonderfully nuanced from the very first taste. Crushed red berry, cedar, tobacco, mint and blood orange lend striking aromatic nuance. Ample and resonant in feel, yet with mid-weight structure, the 2015 is a total pleasure to taste today. All of the natural radiance of the warm year comes through in the wine's generous, inviting personality. Drink it over the next 15 years or so. Drink 2021-2030.
Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media (March 2021)

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}                 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2015{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Vinous, Antonio Galloni:: 94/100 

[]James Suckling:: 95/100 []Vinous, Neal Martin:: 93/100  {ratings}{***}

The 2014 Les Forts de Latour has a smudged, quite opulent bouquet with lavish red fruit, leather and undergrowth scents, more forward than I would expect from a wine this youthful. The palate is medium-bodied with soft tannin and a little chewy in the mouth. Like the nose, this Les Forts de Latour feels unusually decadent for the vintage with a sweet finish that needs to muster more reserve and breeding. It is not unlikeable, quite the opposite, but it needs to develop more Pauillac characteristics. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}                 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Wine Spectator:: 92/100        
[]Jancis Robsinson:: 17/20                
[]Vinous:: 93/100          
[]Wine Advocate:: 93/100                                                                                                   
{ratings}{***}

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 97-99/100          []James Suckling:: 97-98/100   
{ratings}  {***}

With its ripe, intense blackcurrant nose and succulent palate, Le Petit Mouton is a great example of the exceptional quality of the second wines of the grands châteaux in 2009. This is rich and delicious with very juicy fruit and ripe tannins leading to a complex, savoury finish. This will be wonderful to drink in a few year’s time whilst waiting for the Grand Vin to mature.

{***}{region}Pauillac{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                         

{maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 93/100

 [] Robert Parker:: 90-92/100  

[] Jancis Robinson:: 16/20  

[] Wine Spectator:: 90-93/100{ratings} {***}

A blend of 50 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 45 percent Merlot, four percent Petit Verdot and one percent Cabernet Franc, this wine sits in the glass with a dark violet colour showing impressive red berry fruit, a nice hint of damson and a leafy quality. Medium-bodied, the wine has a silky mouth-feel and gentle acidity. The finish is long and persistent, with just a touch of mocha and spice.

{***}{region}St Julien{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 90-92/100
[] Antonio Galloni, Vinous:: 92-95/100

{ratings}{***}

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}

[]Wine Advocate:: 96-98/100

{ratings} {***}

Deeply coloured, the nose offers great aromatic purity, with blackberries, cassis and dark cherries joined by a hint of smoke and coffee bean. It is beautifully complex. On the palate, the wine opens up with a rich and opulent structure. Velvety tannins combine with dark fruit, plum, spicy pepper notes and a touch of dark chocolate. The 2018 is a wine of power – harmonious and concentrated with a lingering mouth-feel. Drink 2024-2035.

Blend: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot

{***}{region}Margaux{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                      

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings} [] Vinous:: 93-96/100

[] Wine Advocate:: 94-96+/100

{ratings}

{***}

Henri Lurton’s preference is for a more considered and restrained style of Margaux and, while the roundness of the vintage is apparent, this is very stylish, with a lovely lift of fruit and bounce of freshness. The tannins plot a commendably firm line through the palate. Unsurprisingly, this has one of the more modest alcohols at 13.4%. Drink 2025-2040.

Blend: 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}

{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}

{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings}

[]James Suckling:: 95/100        
[]Jancis Robinson:: 17+/20                
[]Decanter :: 95/100           
[]The Wine Advocate:: 93/100 

{ratings}

{***}

Henri Lurton describes this as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, Brane and it is hard not to disagree. Aromas of violets and blackcurrant give way to a concentrated, succulent wine with a long, pure, persistent, finish.

Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon 70%, Merlot 27%, Cabernet Franc 2%, Carménère 1%

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}

{color}Red{color}            

     {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}

{vintage}2016{vintage}

{ratings}   
[]The Wine Advocate:: 96-98/100

[]Jancis Robinson:: 17/20

{ratings}

{***}

An estate that has eyes on it right now as it changes hands from the Albada to the Helfrich family. At this point winemaker Frederic Ardouin had been there for three years, and has made a wine with a supple quality to the tannins, and plenty of juice running through it. Very much ready to enjoy and will give a ton of pleasure. Easy to recommend. 10% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 30% new oak. Drink 2021 - 2036. Jane Anson, Decanter.com

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}

{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}

{vintage}2011{vintage}

{ratings}
[]Wine Spectator:: 88-91/100                    
[]James Suckling:: 91/100           
[]Decanter:: 92/100                                                                                                   
{ratings}

{***}

At Ch. Troplong Mondot new chief executive Aymeric de Gironde talks about a return to a pre-1998 style. The 2017 is certainly a step in that direction. A blend of 85 percent Merlot, 13 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and two percent Cabernet Franc, it has wonderful, unctuous pleasing fruit notes of dark and blue fruit, mulberry, damson, blueberry and blackcurrant. This is a wine which is full of immediate appeal and sweet fruit. But there is an elegance to the mid palate and it finishes with a dry, creamy texture. A really excellent wine.

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 95-97/100

{ratings}{***}

The 2017 Bellevue Mondotte is just as impressive from bottle as it was en primeur. Powerful and structured, with tremendous intensity in all of its dimensions, the 2017 is all class. Inky dark fruit, graphite, menthol and licorice all come together with time in the glass. This tiny vineyard on very poor limestone subsoil gives wines of real power and structure. The 2017 is a gorgeous Saint-Émilion endowed with tons of energy and tension. Drink 2027-2042
Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Mar 2020)

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 96-98/100

[] Antonia Galloni, Vinous:: 96/100

{ratings}{***}

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2013{vintage}

{ratings}[] Wine Advocate:: 94-96+/100{ratings}

{***}

The 2017 Ch. Pape Clément falls into the glass with a deep maroon colour. It has a delicate, expressive nose of red fruit, cassis, iron and wet stone. The blend is 49 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 48 percent Merlot, two percent Petit Verdot and one percent Cabernet Franc planted on clay gravels. The palate is medium-bodied with a lively, tannic grip. It finishes with a long, peppery, saline minerality. A complex wine which will reveal itself over many years.

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                               

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 92-94/100{ratings}    {***}

This estate is one of the most exciting and progressive estates in Bordeaux. At the helm is the indefatigable Guillaume Pouthier and his passion once again is reflected in the beautifully crafted 2017. The lovely, deep Cabernet nose has a mineral note of wet stone and dark plum. There is very good dense fruit on mid-palate with a lovely saline background. A great snap of acidity gives it a lovely freshness, and the fruit core carries on through the length, boding for a few decades in bottle. A svelte and yet tightly wound Carmes. Beautifully crafted – a Graves on another level.

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}            {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[]James Suckling:: 94-95/100                 
           
[]The Wine Advocate:: 91-93+/100                                                                                                   
{ratings}

Veronique Saunders says that in 2017 the estate lost 30 percent of fruit due to frost. Dark ruby, the nose has notes of spices, cedar, dark fruit and cassis. On the palate it is medium bodied and extremely silky with high quality tannins. A blend of 60 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 32 percent Merlot, four percent Cabernet Franc and four percent Petit Verdot, it has a gentle, delicate feel in 2017 with cool fruit and a long persistent finish. 

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                        

   {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 94-96/100

[]James Suckling:: 94-95/100

{ratings} {***}

The medium to deep garnet colored 2008 Cos d'Estournel is blended of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc. Pow! The nose explodes with notes of baked cherries, preserved plums, fried herbs, beef drippings and warm cassis with wafts of wood smoke, salami and tobacco leaf. Medium-bodied, the palate is elegant and earthy/savory in character, sporting beautifully ripe, grainy tannins and bags of freshness, finishing on a lingering mineral note. Drink 2018-2035.

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2008{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Wine Advocate:: 95/100

{ratings} {***}

The vineyards of Ch. Grand-Puy-Lacoste were unaffected by the late frosts in April. The 2017 is a blend of 80 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 20 percent Merlot. Medium crimson in colour with an attractive, yet delicate perfume of blackcurrant, cassis, raspberry and red fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with a good, thrilling acidity and a juicy finish. Owing to the weather during the growing season, the grapes don’t have as much sugar as previous vintages which is here shown off to us in a lighter style. Attractive fine tannins.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}

{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}

{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}   
[]Vinous:: 93/100

[]Wine Advocate:: 90/100

[]James Suckling:: 92-93/100 

{ratings}

{***}

Ch. Latour has now released the final stock of its excellent second wine, Les Forts de Latour from the legendary 2005 vintage. This is the last opportunity to purchase this wine on release from the château.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}                 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Robert Parker:: 93/100 

 []Wine Advocate:: 93/100  {ratings}{***}

Of all the St Julien properties, Saint-Pierre is the smallest, but in 2018 it has made a wine full of concentration and intensity. The palate is dominated by flavours of liquorice, blueberries and blackcurrant, with a hint of cigar smoke. The tannins are well balanced, making it an attractive option for earlier drinking. It’s moreish with a long finish. Drink 2021-2032.

{***}{region}St Julien{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 94-96/100

{ratings}{***}

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 95-97/100          
{ratings}  {***}

The 2014 Baron de Brane displays scents of brambly red berry fruit, mocha and hints of espresso on the well-defined nose. The medium-bodied palate offers fine tannin and a straightforward, tobacco-tinged and lightly spiced finish. The most elegant Baron de Brane in recent years. Fine. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château.ed wine.

{***}
{region} Margaux{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                               {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2014{vintage}

{ratings}
 [] Vinous:: 87/100                
 [] Decanter:: 89/100{ratings}

{***}

The wine is only just coming out of its shell. The nose is subdued but fresh and incisive, the palate firm verging on austere with grippy tannins present. There's length and freshness, the Cabernet providing a linear edge, the fruit adequately juicy. If you can, wait another couple of years.

{***}{region}Margaux{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                               {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 90/100        
 [] Wine Spectator:: 90/100          
 [] James Suckling:: 92/100{ratings}    {***}

Perhaps one of the best value “Second” wines on the market, Ségla does not disappoint in the great 2016 vintage. The nose is quintessential Margaux with lashings of Blackcurrant, Blueberry and Cassis notes interwoven with rose petals, violets and cedarwood. The palate is medium-bodied, elegant and open with a pleasant mouth-feel which does not lack in concentration. The fruit is succulent and blends perfectly with the silky tannins. A super drinkable Ségla but allow a few years in bottle for it to really sing.

Drink 2022 – 2028+

{***}{region}Margaux{region}
{color}Red{color}         {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}

{ratings}
 [] Antonio Galloni, Vinous :: 92/100

[] Neal Martin, Vinous:: 90/100

 [] Jancis Robinson :: 18/20  

[] James Suckling:: 93/100

{ratings}

{***}

The 2001 Calon-Ségur has a delightful bouquet, very pure and a little more vivacious than the preceding vintage, featuring lovely brambly red fruit, rose petals, autumn leaves and a touch of cigar box, all well defined and focused. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, a little more cohesive than the 2000, and slightly granular in texture, with a graceful, elegant and quite persistent finish. This is one of the few châteaux where it's difficult to choose between the 2001 and 2000. Drinking perfectly now. Drink 2021 - 2045

Neal Martin, vinous.com (Sep 2021)

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2001{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Vinous:: 94/100

{ratings} {***}

The 2000 d’Armailhac offers brambly red berry fruit mixed with cedar and mint on a nose that is gentle but persuasive, nicely defined and open. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins that frame the iron-tinged red fruit. This is not amazingly complex compared to recent vintages, but it is harmonious and displays the DNA of a Pauillac. It just fades a little toward the finish, and there is perhaps a touch of brettanomyces. Bottles are drinking perfectly now. Charming and ready to go.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}       {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2000{vintage}
{ratings} [] Vinous:: 88/100
          
                                                                                                 
{ratings}{***}

The enigmatic Philippe Blanc, director of Ch. Beychevelle, was in fine humour when we visited him to taste his 2008 Grand Vin. This estate just gets better and better and Philippe’s sunny disposition was a reflection of the bright fruit shining out of his wine. The round, plump, fleshy feel of 47% Merlot certainly comes across with opulent notes of ripe morello cherries but 48% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc add to its darker side and provide an elegant backbone. This is well balanced and rewarding: a fine achievement.

{***}{region}St Julien{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2008{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Robert Parker :: 89+/100
[] The Wine Advocate:: 89+/100

[] Jancis Robinson:: 17/20

{ratings}{***}

The first vintage for a dry white at Brane-Cantenac, from 3.2ha of clay-sand soils in the middle of AOC Margaux but designated Haut-Médoc. They planted the Loire clones of Sauvignon Blanc in 2017, and this has clear and well-defined Sauvignon aromatics; a little on the wild side but sappy and enticing. Integral vinification in barrel for 25%, the rest in vats with some lees stirring. It is walking the line between richness and freshness. A yield of 14hl/ha, which is low, but this feels important in these young vines to ensure quality and concentration. Diam closure. Eric Boissenot is the consultant for this, as for the red. Harvest from August 29 to September 5.

Drink 2021 - 2026

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}

{color}White{color}                                                                                                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}

{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings}

[]Jane Anson:: 91/100        
[]Jancis Robinson:: 16.5/20                

{ratings}

{***}

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 97/100

[]Robert Parker:: 100+/100 {ratings} {***}

The second wine of Brane-Cantenac, a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Sweet tobacco, succulent blackberry notes on the palate and powerful structure. A strong effort.

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2006{vintage}{***}

Using a more traditional blend, C des Carmes Haut-Brion focuses on Merlot subtly complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon. The fruit is in the spotlight here, offering an elegant range of aromas. Drunk young, the wine develops a crisp intensity which will gain the patina of beautiful complexity as the years pass.

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}            {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[] James Suckling:: 94-95/100

                                                                                                 
{ratings}

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}[] Wine Advocate:: 93-95+/100

[] James Suckling:: 93-94/100

{ratings}

{***}

Mid crimson. Sweet and simple and easy without great density of fruit but quite a bit of tannin underneath. For the moment the frame dominates the flesh.
Jancis Robinson MW - jancisrobinson.com - Apr 2015

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2014{vintage}

{ratings} [] Wine Advocate:: 91-93/100

[] Jancis Robinson MW:: 16/20

{ratings}

{***}

Dark fruit with cedar and herbal notes on the nose. Some meat, too. It’s full-bodied with firm tannins. Juicy and savory character on the palate with a balanced structure. Flavorful finish. Second wine. Try after 2023 when it will be more together.

James Suckling, jamessuckling.com (Mar 2021)

{***}{region}St Julien{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
[] James Suckling:: 92/100

[] Jane Anson :: 89/100

{ratings}{***}

Deep red-black right to the rim, with savoury marmite aromas complemented by a lovely nose of violet-infused fruit, rich and intense. It also displays fresh, toasty and really interesting notes that lead to a palate of ripe, spiced, black fruits, making it supple and medium-bodied. It is an elegant wine that also shows lovely cinnamon notes and is fresh and leafy too with a refreshing bitter cranberry twist and bite, but all nicely done, with a long, rich sweet finish.

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings} 

{ratings}

{***}

Alexandre de Malet Roquefort’s family has owned La Gaffelière since 1705. The vineyard is superbly sited by Ausone, with other plots by Pavie and Pavie Macquin, and this potential is beginning to be recognised. The 2018 has fine minerality and perfume, and very sleek tannins. Polished, but not plush, the finish is fine-grained. Drink 2023-2035.

Blend: 58% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Franc

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color} Red{color}                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] Wine Advocate:: 94-96/100

[] James Suckling:: 95-96/100

[] Decanter:: 96/100   

{ratings} {***}

This is classic Bordeaux from the reliable Château Chasse-Spleen. The almost forgotten 2001 vintage is one my favourites, sometimes managing to eclipse the sunnier 2000. Opulent and rich, this has an intense nose, displaying a sweet but precise texture. It is just beginning to show some lovely mature notes and doesn’t disappoint – many would think it is a wine of higher ranking tasted blind. Drink now to 2029.

Max Lalondrelle, Bordeaux Buyer (spring 2019)  

{***}{region}Haut-Médoc{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2001{vintage}
{ratings}

[] Jancis Robinson:: 16.5/20{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}Bordeaux{region}
{color}White{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 93/100

[] Wine Spectator:: 94-97/100

{ratings}{***}

This is a wine of presence and power and, yet, also shows a bit more transparency than some, probably from the role played by the Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The finish of the wine, however, is dense, with an accent on spice over fruit, heady and rich, with huge tannins. It’s tempting to under-estimate this wine, but it is certainly well-crafted. Drink 2028-2045.

Blend: 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot

{***}

{region}Pauillac{region}

{color} Red{color}

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}1996{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 97-99/100

{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2000{vintage}
{ratings}

[]Vinous:: 92/100    

[]The Wine Advocate:: 86/100 {ratings} {***}

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 La Mondotte strolls nonchalantly out of the glass with expressive scents of plum preserves, blueberry compote and chocolate-covered cherries, followed by suggestions of candied violets, licorice, hoisin and black truffles with a waft of ground cloves. It's medium to full-bodied with seriously impressive tension and wonderfully ripe, velvety tannins supporting the generous black fruit preserves layers, finishing with amazing length and loads of panache. It will require a good 4-5 years to unlock some of its finer nuances, then drink this powerhouse over the next 25+ years. - Wine Advocate

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color} Red{color}                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] Wine Advocate:: 97/100

[] James Suckling:: 98/100

[] Vinous:: 96/100   

{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2007{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 92/100

{ratings} {***}

The 2016 Les Tourelles de Longueville is a blend of 58% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot (from young vines that are destined to go into the Grand Vin one day, according to Christian Seely), matured in 30% new oak for 12 months. It offers a mixture of red and black fruit on the nose, just a touch of melted tar with fine delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with quite a powerful opening, dense black fruit tinged with graphite, a solid Deuxième Vin with a slightly aloof finish (at least at the moment). There is a pleasant graphite note lingering long on the aftertaste that completes a fine Pauillac to enjoy over the next 12-15 years. Drink 2021 - 2040

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate (Apr 2017)

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Antonia Galloni, Vinous:: 92/100

[]James Suckling:: 94/100 

[]The Wine Advocate:: 90-92/100 

{ratings} {***}

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2014{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 94/100

[]James Suckling:: 95/100

[]Jeb Dunnuck:: 94/100   

[]Decanter:: 94/100 {ratings} {***}

A wine with some density, spiced with touches of wood, dusty tannins and an open sweet plum flavor. There is plenty of wood here, layering the fruit. The wine has aging potential, worth waiting 4–5 years. 

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color} Red{color}                {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2007{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] Wine Enthusiast:: 91/100        
{ratings}    {***}

Broad and sexy, with supple tannin, the 2001 offers beguiling notes of toast, black currant liqueur, violets, and licorice in a seductive, opulent, medium to full-bodied, accessible style. It may deserve another point or two for pure pleasure. Proprietor Eric Albada Jelgersma is doing a splendid job rebuilding this estate and producing higher and higher quality wines. The finest Du Tertre in many years was the 2000, and the 2001 is close behind it in quality. 
Robert M. Parker, Jr. - 30/06/2004

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}

{color}Red{color}                                                         

          {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}

{vintage}2001{vintage}

{ratings}
[]Wine Advocate:: 90/100                    
[]Vinous:: 91/100           
[]Jancis Robinson :: 16/20                                                                                                   
{ratings}

{***}

The 2016 Lacoste-Borie is a blend of 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, cropped at 50 hectoliters per hectare. It has a clean and precise bouquet, not as complex as some of its peers, yet with thoroughly enjoyable raspberry and blackcurrant leaf tinged with cedar. The palate is medium-bodied with grippy, slightly dry tannin on the entry, hints of dark chocolate interlacing the black fruit with a touch of cracked black pepper on the finish. Drink 2020 - 2035
Neil Martin, Wine Advocate (Apr 2017)

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Vinous:: 88/100

[]Wine Advocate:: 88-90/100 

{ratings} {***}

This is undoubtedly one of the very best St Emilions this year, with no hint of the excessive dryness of tannin which marked some others from this appellation. The bouquet has hints of black plum, raspberry and blackcurrant while on the palate there is a beguiling creamy texture, with huge intensity. The finish is long and the tannins very fine-grained. There is a slight toasty note from new oak but such is the concentration of fruit that this will be comfortably absorbed in a short while. The correct balancing acidity imparts a lovely freshness to the wine.

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color} Red{color}                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] Robert Parker :: 98/100

 [] Wine Spectator:: 94-97/100 

 [] Wine Advocate:: 99+/100 

[] Jancis Robinson MW:: 17.5/20 

{ratings} {***}

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 95/100

[]Robert Parker:: 98/100

[]Jancis Robinson :: 17/20 {ratings} {***}

A blend of 62 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 36 percent Merlot and two percent Petit Verdot. Dark crimson in colour, the wine has a deft touch, the hallmark of winemaker Nicholas Audebert, and a finesse and elegance about it this year with a velvety texture. It finishes fresh with a long, persistent length.

{***}{region}Margaux{region}
{color}Red{color}                                         

                                                       {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}
 [] Wine Advocate:: 94-96/100        

[] James Suckling:: 94-95/100 

         
{ratings}

{***}

Bright crimson. Meaty, really savoury nose with great life. Medium weight and beautiful balance. Some light inkiness and a little marked by the oak at present but a really beautiful whole. Fragrant, roses with life and lift again. The wine is relatively high in acidity but, most unusually, surrounded by the ripe fruit. Easy to see a relationship with the beautiful 2006 served after this. Drink 2020 - 2040.

Jancis Robinson MW, jancisrobinson.com (Jul 2016)

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2014{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Jancis Robinson:: 18.5/20

[]Wine Advocate:: 96/100

{ratings} {***}

Stéphane Derenoncourt has done it yet again with this fantastic showing from Ch. Talbot. We get all the classic sophistication of St Julien combined with real concentration and impressive depths. The palate is full to bursting with dark berry fruits but they are hidden, waiting to evolve and unfurl from beneath a thick dark chocolate heart imprinted with smoked earth touches. This dense Ch. Talbot has plenty of weight with a rich and satisfying finish. Lots to offer from this popular and great value chateau.

{***}{region}St Julien{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 92/100

 [] Wine Spectator:: 93-96/100 

[] Jancis Robinson:: 17/20 [] Vinous:: 93-95/100{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 97/100          []James Suckling:: 98-99/100

[]Jancis Robinson : 18.5/20  

{ratings} {***}

The 2000 Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande is spectacular... A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, and the rest Cabernet Franc, this effort has a singular/distinctive yet possibly controversial aromatic smorgasbord existing of creme de cassis, vanilla, and violets, but also tapenade and tree bark. No doubt the Petit Verdot has imparted a certain almost olive-like component to the wine's aromatic profile.

In the mouth, it is a wine of extraordinary density, opulence, great presence, and richness. As the 2000 sits in the glass, notes of lavender and melted licorice emerge along with the distinctive tapenade aromas interwoven with creme de cassis, espresso roast, and cedar. The wine is full-bodied, with extraordinary purity and a tremendous texture.This is a dramatic, almost flamboyant style that is not classic Pauillac in one sense, but a classic wine.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - Apr 2003.

{***}{region}Pauillac{region}

{color} Red{color}

{maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2000{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 96/100

[] Robert Parker:: 97/100

[] Jancis Robinson:: 17.5/20

{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}St Julien {region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 95+/100

[]Jancis Robinson :: 18/20   

[]James Suckling:: 95-96/100  

{ratings} {***}

The 2016 Batailley has an attractive, meaty bouquet with more red fruit than black, unlike many of its peers. With aeration it appears to gain more floral notes and lift. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, linear and focused, offering pencil lead, cedar and light spicy notes toward the conservative, controlled finish. A mocha-tinged aftertaste emanates from the oak. Good potential, but it needs time. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting. Drink 2022 - 2050

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Wine Advocate:: 93-95/100

[]James Suckling:: 96/100 

[]Vinous:: 93+/100 

[]Jancis Robinson MW:: 17+/20 

{ratings} {***}

Bright and ripe dark fruit on the nose, nice depth there. Better still on the palate, ripe fruit, notes of graphite and spice, pleasing and giving, surprisingly crisp acidity, given the ripeness, keeps this in balance, along with ripe, melting tannins. Showing very well now, this will continue to give pleasure for many years to come. A real pleaser of a Ch. Batailley. Drink now to 2030+.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Robert Parker:: 94/100

[]Wine Spectator:: 92-95/100 

[]James Suckling:: 93/100 

[]Vinous:: 91/100 

[]Jancis Robinson MW:: 17.5/20 

{ratings} {***}

Gloriously Pauillac on the nose, dark, rich, medicinal fruit, serious, with hints of spice. Lovely savoury fruit on the palate, mouth-filling and profound, dark fruit, spice and menthol, all wrapped up in a velvety structure. Good acidity and ripe tannins round this off perfectly. This is beginning to show very well now, precise balance and depth, with good length. Perfect Sunday lunch Claret. Drink now-2035.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2003{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Wine Advocate:: 93/100

[]Jancis Robinson MW :: 17/20 

{ratings} {***}

The 2009 Echo De Lynch Bages is succulent and pure, with dark cassis fruit and earthy complexity. Very juicy and fresh, yet very structured, this is still hiding some power and could do with a few more years’ ageing in cellar to really shine. As ever, though, the attention to detail from the team at Lynch Bages is clear. This is a wine of utmost quality.

Drink 2016 - 2036

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}
[Wine Spectator:: 89-92/100        
                                                                                                  
{ratings}{***}

{***}
{region}St Julien {region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}1982{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 95+/100

[]Robert Parker:: 95/100  

[]Wine Spectator:: 95/100

{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}Bordeaux{region}
{color}White{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}

{ratings}{***}

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 100/100

[]Robert Parker:: 100/100

[]Wine Spectator:: 96-99/100

[]Jancis Robinson:: 17.5/20 {ratings} {***}

After the sensational 2004 Haut Bailly we were anticipating a rival, or an equal. We were wrong. The 2005 has everything that the 2004 has but cranked up by about 40%. Its intense multilayered flavours are exceptional. The wine is totally decadent and yet so precise. Packed full of typical Graves minerality, incredibly concentrated raspberry and cream flavours, sit alongside great acidity and massive tannins. Veronique Sanders said, 'This is the finest wine that we have ever made.' We say 'Buy as much of this as you can afford.'

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}                 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 95/100

[]Wine Spectator:: 95/100

[]Robert Parker:: 90/100 

{ratings} {***}

The 2016 Haut-Batailley was tasted from two bottles, the first showing a touch of TCA. The second has an airy and well-defined bouquet of blackberry, graphite and subtle floral aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-boned tannins and very classic in style, displaying impressive grip. I appreciate the substance toward the finish, and the pencil lead lingering on the aftertaste. This is an outstanding Haut-Batailley. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting.

Drink 2022 - 2042

Neal Martin, vinous.com (Aug 2020)

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Vinous:: 94/100                                                                                           []The Wine Advocate:: 89/100                                                                           []Jancis Robinson:: 17/20

[]James Suckling:: 94/100 

[]Jeb Dunnuck:: 92/100 

{ratings} {***}

With its fantastic texture and crunchy cassis fruit, Claire Villars-Lurton acquitted herself with honours with her 2009 Ch. Haut-Bages Libéral. This is a beautiful wine which wears its new oak seamlessly whilst a cleansing freshness and an intriguing earthy complexity add perfect balance. Punching well above its weight, this is destined to be a great value buy in 2009.

{***}{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}         

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}

{ratings}
 [] Wine Advocate:: 92/100

[] Robert Parker:: 92/100

 [] Wine Spectator:: 91-94/100

{ratings}

{***}

For some time, this second wine of a famous Bordeaux château has been a bit of a wine trade secret. Its big brother, Ch. Pichon-Baron, has produced some of the most iconic wines of Bordeaux over the last 30 years, and Les Tourelles has often given its fans not just a glimpse of the Grand Vin, but something truly fantastic in its own right. The 2010 vintage was one the finest ever at this estate, and Les Tourelles is characterised by its purity of cassis fruit, its gorgeous silky texture, and an opulent full-bodied style which eclipses many a Cru Classé.

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate (Apr 2017)

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Wine Spectator:: 90-93/100

[]The Wine Advocate:: 89/100 

{ratings} {***}

This dark and brooding Margaux has a whopping 81% Cabernet Sauvignon. The elegant nose offers violets, cigar box and black fruits. With time, there are hints of toasty oak, vanilla, blueberries and more. The palate is tight for now, but notes of black-and-blue fruits, dark chocolate and herbs hint at what’s to come. It’s full bodied, with supple, mouth-coating tannins. The finish is long, with invigorating, life-affirming acidity. This promises to be a real treat in the not-too-distant future. Enjoy it then with a seared duck breast or a quality piece of steak. Drink 2025-2045.

{***}{region}Margaux{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                             

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}

[] Vinous :: 94/100  

[] Jancis Robinson:: 16.5+/20 [] Wine Advocate :: 93/100 {ratings} {***}

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2006{vintage}

{ratings}[] Robert Parker:: 92/100

[] Vinous:: 90/100

[] Jancis Robinson :: 17/20

{ratings}

{***}

The wine boasts a dense blue/purple color as well as aromas of black raspberries, blackberries, acacia flowers, espresso, toasty oak, and a sweet, mossy, foresty character that ranges from an autumnal, vegetative smell to minerality. Opulent, dense and strikingly rich and extracted with moderately high tannins, this is one of the bigger, richer wines of the vintage. Give it 4-5 years of cellaring and drink it over the following 20-25.

Christine Valette has turned in another impressive performance, although despite its obvious success, the 2011 will never be compared with what she achieved in the three previous vintages, 2008, 2009 and 2010, not to mention the monumental 2005. Yields were 41 hectoliters per hectare, and the final blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc hit 14.5% natural alcohol.

(Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - April 2012)

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 91-93+/100

[] Robert Parker:: 91-93+/100

[] Wine Spectator:: 91-94/100

{ratings}{***}

This is a stunning wine, epitomising St Julien's breed and elegance but with an extra dash of generosity. A fabulous rich nose leads to a structured palate with a lovely weight of ripe, creamy raspberry and loganberry fruit with liquorice and toast hints. The fruit quality is outstanding, with real energy and freshness, topped off by a long, pure finish. The harvest was very late here so the Cabernet Sauvignon (60%) and Merlot (30%) were able to really blossom. Given their reasonable pricing policy this is one of the wines of the vintage for value as well as quality.

{***}{region}St. Julien{region}
{color} Red {color}                                                              

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}
{ratings}

[] Robert Parker :: 90/100

[] The Wine Advocate:: 90/100{ratings}{***}

A second wine that has improved dramatically is the Alter Ego de Palmer. The 2009, a blend of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, exhibits aromas of blackberries, cassis, chocolate, roasted espresso and a smoky/foresty note. This hedonistic, juicy, succulent Margaux is meant to be consumed in its first 10-15 years of life.
Robert M. Parker, Jr. - 23/12/2011

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Robert Parker:: 89-92/100 []The Wine Advocate:: 91/100

 {ratings} {***}

Owner Alfred Tesseron has produced an utterly extraordinary wine in 2005. The verdict was unanimous amongst our buying team: it was without question the best Pontet-Canet anyone could ever remember tasting. With incredible silky tannins, and perfect balance, this has everything you could ever want from a wine. Creamy blackberries, and an incredibly precise shape, lead to a spellbounding finish that makes your tongue tingle. Tasting this wine is one of those experiences where you wonder how a few grapes can be transformed into such an elixir. Unmissable.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Robert Parker :: 97+/100

[]The Wine Advocate:: 97/100          []Jancis Robinson:: 18/20   
{ratings}  {***}

The 1995 Château Gruaud Larose has a complex nose with intense aromas of ripe black cherry, graphite and dark chocolate mixed with leather and smoke. Layers of soft berry fruit and damp grass unfold on the palate, leading into fresh tobacco. The palate is supple, with juicy acidity and elegant, fine tannings playing a supporting role. This would be a perfect match with hard cheeses or game meats. Drink now to 2028.

{***}{region}St. Julien{region}
{color} Red {color}                                                              

 {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink now{maturity-text}
{vintage}1995{vintage}
{ratings}

[] Vinous :: 90+/100

[] The Wine Advocate:: 89/100{ratings}{***}

At Ch. Figeac, production is down by almost a half but we still think the quality is high and under the guidance of Frederic Faye it continues its upwards trajectory. A blend of 43 percent Merlot, 47 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 10 percent Cabernet Franc, it has a
deep purple colour with charming aromatics of small, red berry fruits, violets and liquorice. Once in the mouth there is a silky, mouth filling texture with a graphite and a mineral note finishing with a pleasing graphite grip. It has a long, persistent finish. Less density and opulence than 2015 or 2016 but it is pure in tannin and focus. A truly great Cabernet Sauvignon wine.

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color} Red{color}                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}

 [] Wine Advocate:: 94-96/100 

        
{ratings}    {***}

{***}
{region}St Julien {region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}1995{vintage}
{ratings}

{ratings} {***}

The 2017 La Parde de Haut-Bailly is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon with 35% Merlot. Deep garnet-purple colored, it's scented of crushed blackcurrants, blackberries and pencil lead with touches of garrigue, bay leaves and dusty soil. The palate is medium-bodied, finely crafted and refreshing with lively red and black fruits in the mouth and an herbal lift on the finish. - Wine Advocate

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}                      {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 89-91/100

[]Vinous:: 92/100 

{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}Bordeaux{region}
{color}White{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2007{vintage}
{ratings}

{ratings}{***}

With a violet, almost Pomerol character, the 2009 Ormes de Pez is a seductive, concentrated wine with ripe, juicy mulberry fruit and ultra-ripe tannins providing structure. A smooth, velvety mouthfeel and wonderful harmony on the palate make this a truly gorgeous wine. This would be a brilliant value buy.

Ch. Ormes de Pez was the first wine on my value list and really is one of the best 2009s under £300. Made by the same team and in the same meticulous style as Ch. Lynch Bages, it is a seductive, concentrated wine with ripe, juicy mulberry fruit and ultra-ripe tannins providing structure. A smooth, velvety mouth feel and wonderful harmony on the palate make this a truly gorgeous wine.

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                        

                                        {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Wine Spectator:: 92-95/100        
[]Jancis Robsinson:: 17+/20
{ratings}    {***}

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 94+/100

[]Robert Parker:: 91-93/100

 {ratings} {***}

"Former rugby player Eric Prissette continues to demonstrate a sure touch with his small plots planted in different sections of St.-Emilion....Winemaking consultant Stephane Derenoncourt has fashioned an elegant, but powerful, dense blue/purple-colored 2005 revealing a sweet nose of blue and black fruits intermixed with notions of crushed rocks, subtle oak, creme de cassis, and blueberries. Full-bodied, with moderately high tannin, good acidity, and superb definition as well as length."
Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - 30-Apr-2007

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color} Red{color}                {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} 

{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] Robert Parker :: 92/100

 [] Wine Advocate :: 92/100

        
{ratings}    {***}

Similar to Lynch Bages, not only in style but also in far outperforming its classification, Grand-Puy-Lacoste has made wines in the last five years that are better than many Second Growths. Located on the Bages plateau the 30 to 60 year old vines to dig deep into the gravely soil and extract the mineral qualities that seem to be the signature of this chteau's wines. Extremely concentrated, with sweet, black cherries, cassis and flinty overtones on the nose. The restrained yet powerful palate displays classic Pauillac `grip' with ripe but firm tannins and attractive herbaceous hints supporting the pure, lush black fruit.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}

{color}Red{color}                  

 {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}

{vintage}2001{vintage}

{ratings}   

[]Wine Advocate:: 88/100  

{ratings}

{***}

Since the inspired 2006 Lynch-Bages broke the mould there has been no looking back for this great estate. Don’t get me wrong, it was wonderful before, and if you have been lucky enough to have tried awesome vintages such as 1982, 1985, 1986, 1989, 1990, 1996 and 2000 you will know what I mean, but since the unveiling of the 2006 there are extra elements and dimensions lurking at the bottom of a glass of Lynch-Bages. 2011 is absolutely no exception.

Fabulous intensity and concentration. Glorious grip. Super fine tannins dance around the palate and rest elegantly upon the layers of multi-coloured red and black fruit. This is a very serious wine, not as in it’s stern and broody, and too thoughtful and ponderous for its own good, far from it. I mean this would be a great 2009 or 2010 in virtually every châteaux in Bordeaux. Powerful, complex, decadent and compelling. It’s rock 'n roll wine making and Lynch-Bages is playing like Led Zeppelin in 1971.

If they ever re-classified Bordeaux again, Lynch-Bages would fly up the charts quicker than any other château. Outstanding!

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}       {maturity}laying-down{maturity} 
{maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}
{ratings}

[]Robert Parker:: 90-93/100   

[]The Wine Advocate:: 90/100 {ratings}

{***}

The 2009 Lynch-Bages has an intense bouquet which is more forward than Grand Puy Lacoste, albeit without the same complexity. Layers of blackberry, bilberry, brine and a touch of graphite. The palate is medium-bodied with saturated tannin, slightly lower in acidity than the 2010 Lynch Bages, dense and quite sinewy towards the finish. It might miss the class of its peers but you cannot help but admire the brawn underneath its aristocratic coat. Tasted at BI Wines & Spirits' Ten Year On tasting. Drink 2021 - 2036. Neal Martin, vinous.com (Mar 2019)

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}       {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2008{vintage}
{ratings}
          
[]The Wine Advocate:: 96/100

[]Vinous:: 93/100

{ratings}{***}

A violet perfume mingles with forward, ripe, blackberry aromas whilst the wine is generous in the mouth with high, ripe tannins and lovely swathes of fruit. We were impressed by all the wines from the Léoville-Poyferré stable in 2009, and Ch. le Crock is no exception.

{***}{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Robert Parker :: 90/100
[] Wine Spectator:: 91-94/100{ratings}{***}

Cos is polished and rich, with a fantastic acidity that will enable it to age majestically.  Made with 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, this is a wonderful, dense wine with earthy St Estèphe minerality amidst the incredibly rich fruit. General Manager Jean-Guillaume Prats thinks that 2005 might be as good as their legendary 2003 - but we definitely thought it was better. This fantastic wine is the first serious candidate for wine of the vintage.

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Wine Advocate:: 98/100

[]Robert Parker:: 97/100 

{ratings} {***}

A fabulously intense, fruit driven nose, with wave after wave of all the typical Pauillac nuances, leads to notes of pencil and tobacco. It is powerful and rich on the palate with a cool, sensual core of precise blackberry fruit. Xavier Borie’s 2009 was one of the wines of the vintage for us and he’s given us a double whammy here, with possibly an even finer example with his incredible 2010.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}

{color}Red{color}                  

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}

{vintage}2012{vintage}

{ratings}   
[]Robert Parker:: 95/100

[]Jancis Robinson :: 17/20

[]Wine Spectator :: 92-95/100

[]Wine Advocate:: 95/100

{ratings}

{***}

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2012{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 93/100

[]Wine Spectator:: 90-93/100

[]Robert Parker:: 92-94/100 

[]Jancin Robinson:: 17.5+/20    

{ratings} {***}

We are delighted to be able to offer the outstanding 1996 Les Forts de Latour as a rare ex-château release. This is a magnificent wine in its own right and is by no means overshadowed by its big brother. It is ready to drink (with a little patience, or an hour of decanting) and will drink brilliantly over the next 10 years and is a relative bargain given its outstanding quality.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}                 {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}1996{vintage}
{ratings}

 []Wine Advocate:: 88/100  {ratings}{***}

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 97/100

[]Robert Parker:: 94+/100    

[]Jancin Robinson:: 18.5/20    

{ratings} {***}

Magical aromas of blackberry and blueberry compote with just a hint of mouth-watering vanilla make you want to dive in and embrace this beautiful wine. Packed full of concentrated black cherry and dark fruits of the forest it has a fabulous core that is very hard to top. Beautifully refined tannins coat this liquid centre. Exceptionally long finish that just leaves you gasping for more. Not as serious and St Estèphesque as 2010 but with more charm and opulence this could be their best wine since the brilliant 2005. Delicious.

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2014{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Wine Advocate:: 92/100

[]Jancis Robinson MW:: 17+/20

{ratings} {***}

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}

{ratings}[] Wine ADvocate:: 95/100

{ratings}

{***}

Ten years on, Bordeaux’s 2010s are looking to have fully matched, and perhaps exceeded, expectations. It’s clear that this is one of the great vintages of recent times, with its persuasive mix of intense flavour and freshness. And flavour is what this Batailley delivers.

Its colour is deep and brooding, which is a little misleading as both the bouquet and palate are replete with notes of leather and tobacco, themselves signals of maturity. Yet the wine is still compact and energetic. The wine’s attraction lies in its rich weave of lush fruit and ripe tannins, and its crowd-pleasing generosity is unparalleled. It is drinking perfectly now but never underestimate Batailley’s staying power; this easily has at least another 10 years in the tank, should you wish.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Robert Parker:: 92/100

[]Wine Advocate:: 95+/100 

[]Jancis Robinson MW:: 16.5+/20 

{ratings} {***}

Red fruit predominates on the nose and also on the palate of this seamless Ch. Pichon-Lalande. This is serious wine, with great matière being present without any weightiness. Acidity levels are balanced and fresh, and the tannins completely integrated at this stage. Hints of cocoa on the finish really round off one of the best Pichons we have tasted in many years.

{***}{region}Pauillac{region}

{color} Red{color}

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2012{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 90/100

[] Robert Parker:: 91-93/100

[] Jancis Robinson:: 16.5/20

{ratings} {***}

This is a wine of presence and power and, yet, also shows a bit more transparency than some, probably from the role played by the Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The finish of the wine, however, is dense, with an accent on spice over fruit, heady and rich, with huge tannins. It’s tempting to under-estimate this wine, but it is certainly well-crafted. Drink 2028-2045.

Blend: 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot

{***}{region}Pauillac{region}

{color} Red{color}

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 97-99/100

{ratings} {***}

‘Fabulous!’ was our initial reaction to the 2009 Ch. Figeac, and the more we continued to taste it, the more this impression intensified. After a morning of tasting high-alcohol, turbo-charged Merlots, it was pure relief to be firmly on Cabernet-dominant territory.

The freshness afforded by the Cabernets in 2009 was clear to see; the luscious, crunchy blackcurrant fruit of the Cabernet Sauvignon (33%) allied harmoniously with the perfume, minerality and elegance of the Cabernet Franc (33%). The remaining proportion of Merlot was just enough to add a juicy plumpness to the wine. All in all, this is a perfect blend; one of our top wines of the vintage.

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color} Red{color}                {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} 

{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}
 

 [] Wine Spectator:: 97-100/100 

 [] Wine Advocate:: 94/100 

        
{ratings}    {***}

Once again, we’ve worked with the Cazes family of Château Lynch-Bages. Benefitting from the same terroir and techniques as their much-loved grand vin, this blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc is wonderfully fragrant, with layers of cassis and blackberries underpinned by sweet cedar spices and a core of graphite. It is luscious, elegant and distinctly Pauillac, with a palate of round, velvety tannins that complement the purity of the fruit. Ideal for drinking now, you could also cellar this for a couple of years.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}{***}

Ch. Lynch Bages, a Cinquième Cru Classé, is one of the best-known Médoc estates and has always had a particularly strong following on this side of the English Channel. The wine can be surprisingly soft and approachable when young; however, when fully mature, it develops a succulent richness and a heavenly bouquet of minty blackcurrants and cigar boxes. As Oz Clarke says, “Lynch Bages is impressive at five years, beautiful at 10 years and irresistible at 20.”

This is a remarkable 2006: voluptuous and sexy, its massive tannins are cloaked by the hugely concentrated, ripe, cedar-y, brambly fruit, while the sweet, rich, toasty aromas add an extra je ne sais quoi. The purity of fruit on the finish is sensational too. Certainly we cannot recall Lynch having been so far up the Bordeaux quality ladder in any previous year.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}       {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2006{vintage}
{ratings}
          
[]The Wine Advocate:: 93/100

[]Wine Spectator:: 92-94/100

[]Jancis Robinson:: 16/20

{ratings}{***}

Ch. Grand-Puy-Lacoste has been in excellent form over the last few years and the 2008 continues in this impressive vein. This boasts the generous fruit of the vintage but with a classic, Pauillac seam running right through the core. Once again feminine in style, this is stylish and elegant with crisp acidity and fine-grained but structured tannins; this represents excellent value in 2008.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}

{color}Red{color}                  

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}

{vintage}2012{vintage}

{ratings}   
[]Robert Parker:: 89/100

[]Wine Advocate:: 89/100  

{ratings}

{***}