Bordeaux
Bordeaux is the centre of the fine wine world. The maritime climate on the 45th parallel offers perfect conditions for growing grapes fit for classically-constructed, long-lasting wines. This vast region is home to 10,000 wine producers and 57 different AOCs. Red – or ‘Claret’ as it’s known – now comprises 88 percent of Bordeaux wine. Then there is the district of Sauternes making some of the most outstanding sweet white wines anywhere.
{***} {keyvisual_style}alt2{keyvisual_style} {filters} []white::White Bordeaux []red::Red Bordeaux []st-julien::St. Julien []margaux::Margaux []pomerol::Pomerol []pauillac::Pauillac []st-emilion::St. Emilion []pessac-leognan::Pessac Léognan []medoc::Médoc []haut-medoc::Haut-Médoc []st-estephe::St. Estèphe {filters} {***}
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2016 Le Petit Mouton, Pauillac
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} {***}
2016 Le Petit Mouton, PauillacPauillac2016 Le Petit Mouton, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $2,495.00 -
2015 Les Forts de Latour, Pauillac
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}{***}
2015 Les Forts de Latour, PauillacPauillac2015 Les Forts de Latour, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $1,745.00 -
2014 Les Forts de Latour, Pauillac
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.
93/100 points, Neal Martin, Vinous{***} {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}{***}
2014 Les Forts de Latour, PauillacPauillac2014 Les Forts de Latour, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $1,725.00 -
2018 Château Pichon-Longueville-Baron, PauillacThis is a mighty wine, brooding and monolithic. The grapes only come from the grand plateau around the château and from vines over 50 years old. Extraction was only before the alcoholic fermentation. Descriptors are invidious for a wine so intense: smoke, tar, leather, an infusion of distillate of sloe. Awesome. Drink 2030-2050.
Blend: 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot
{***} {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} {***}
2018 Château Pichon-Longueville-Baron, PauillacPauillac2018 Château Pichon-Longueville-Baron, PauillacBottle Price 75cl $1,295.00Bottle Price 150cl $2,650.00 -
2009 Le Petit Mouton, Pauillac
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} {***}
2009 Le Petit Mouton, PauillacPauillac2009 Le Petit Mouton, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $2,595.00 -
2017 Ch. Beychevelle, St Julien
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}{***}
2017 Ch. Beychevelle, St JulienSt Julien2017 Ch. Beychevelle, St JulienBottle Price 75 cl $858.00 -
2017 Vieux Château Certan, PomerolComposed of 81% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, the deep garnet-purple colored 2017 Vieux Chteau Certan gives up gorgeous black raspberries, crushed black currants and warm black berries on the nose with chocolate-covered cherries, violets and star anise suggestions plus black truffles and wood smoke. The palate is medium to full-bodied with wonderful concentration in the mid-palate and firm, very finely pixelated tannins, with seamless freshness and fantastic length.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - 27/04/2018
{***} {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} {***}
2017 Vieux Château Certan, PomerolPomerol2017 Vieux Château Certan, PomerolBottle Price 75cl $1,775.00 -
2018 Château Malescot St Exupery, Margaux
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}
{***}
2018 Château Malescot St Exupery, MargauxMargaux2018 Château Malescot St Exupery, MargauxBottle Price 75 cl $478.00 -
2018 Ch. Brane-Cantenac, Margaux
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}
{***}
2018 Ch. Brane-Cantenac, MargauxMargaux2018 Ch. Brane-Cantenac, MargauxBottle Price 75cl $695.00 -
2016 Ch. Brane-Cantenac, Margaux
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}
{***}
2016 Ch. Brane-Cantenac, MargauxMargaux2016 Ch. Brane-Cantenac, MargauxBottle Price 150cl $1,450.00 -
2011 Ch. du Tertre, Margaux
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}
{***}
2011 Ch. du Tertre, MargauxMargaux2011 Ch. du Tertre, MargauxBottle Price 150 cl $750.00Bottle Price 75cl $368.00 -
2017 Château Troplong Mondot, St Emilion
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}{***}
2017 Château Troplong Mondot, St EmilionSt Emilion2017 Château Troplong Mondot, St EmilionBottle Price 75 cl $725.00 -
2017 Château Bellevue Mondotte, St Emilion
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}{***}
2017 Château Bellevue Mondotte, St EmilionSt Emilion2017 Château Bellevue Mondotte, St EmilionBottle Price 75 cl $1,150.00 -
2018 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-LéognanRémi Edange was very pleased with the yields at 38hl/ha, given the early season conditions. This is another good example of Pessac-Léognan's ability to adapt to the year's challenges. The wine is composed and surprisingly structured, with some redcurrant crunch amongst the juicier, most traditional cassis and creamy notes. Drink 2023-2035.
Blend: 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot{***}{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}
{***}
2018 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-LéognanPessac-Léognan2018 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-LéognanBottle Price 75 cl $620.00 -
2017 Ch. Pape Clement, Pessac-Léognan
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} {***}
2017 Ch. Pape Clement, Pessac-LéognanPessac-Léognan2017 Ch. Pape Clement, Pessac-LéognanBottle Price 75 cl $650.00 -
2017 Ch. les Carmes Haut Brion, Pessac-Léognan
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}
2017 Ch. les Carmes Haut Brion, Pessac-LéognanPessac-Léognan2017 Ch. les Carmes Haut Brion, Pessac-LéognanBottle Price 75 cl $750.00 -
2017 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan
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} {***}
2017 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanPessac-Léognan2017 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanBottle Price 75 cl $785.00 -
2008 Cos d'Estournel, St Estèphe
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} {***}
2008 Cos d'Estournel, St EstèpheSt Estèphe2008 Cos d'Estournel, St EstèpheBottle Price 75cl $1,165.00 -
2017 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Pauillac
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}
{***}
2017 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, PauillacPauillac2017 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, PauillacBottle Price 75cl $550.00 -
2005 Les Forts de Latour, Pauillac
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}{***}
2005 Les Forts de Latour, PauillacPauillac2005 Les Forts de Latour, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $2,175.00 -
2018 Ch. Saint-Pierre, St Julien
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}{***}
2018 Ch. Saint-Pierre, St JulienSt Julien2018 Ch. Saint-Pierre, St JulienBottle Price 75 cl $525.00 -
2017 Ch. la Conseillante, PomerolThis is a blend of 85 percent Merlot and 15 percent Cabernet Franc. It is deep crimson in colour with attractive notes of blackcurrant, mocha and graphite. It has a saline character on the finish and a vitality and freshness to it with a long, long finish.
{***} {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} {***}
2017 Ch. la Conseillante, PomerolPomerol2017 Ch. la Conseillante, PomerolBottle Price 75cl $1,250.00 -
2014 Baron de Brane, Margaux
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}
{***}
2014 Baron de Brane, MargauxMargaux2014 Baron de Brane, MargauxBottle Price 75 cl $215.00 -
2011 Ch. Giscours, Margaux
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} {***}
2011 Ch. Giscours, MargauxMargaux2011 Ch. Giscours, MargauxBottle Price 75 cl $458.00 -
2016 Segla, Margaux (Magnum)
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}
{***}
2016 Segla, Margaux (Magnum)Margaux2016 Segla, Margaux (Magnum)Bottle Price 150 cl $695.00 -
2001 Ch. Calon-Ségur, St Estèphe (Magnum)
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} {***}
2001 Ch. Calon-Ségur, St Estèphe (Magnum)St Estèphe2001 Ch. Calon-Ségur, St Estèphe (Magnum)Bottle Price 150 cl $2,150.00 -
2000 Château d'Armailhac, Pauillac
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}{***}
2000 Château d'Armailhac, PauillacPauillac2000 Château d'Armailhac, PauillacBottle Price 150 cl $1,895.00 -
2008 Ch. Beychevelle, St Julien
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}{***}
2008 Ch. Beychevelle, St JulienSt Julien2008 Ch. Beychevelle, St JulienBottle Price 75 cl $1,075.00 -
2019 Brane-Cantenac Blanc
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}
{***}
2019 Brane-Cantenac BlancMargaux2019 Brane-Cantenac BlancBottle Price 75cl $595.00 -
2009 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanMedium to deep garnet colored, the 2009 Haut-Bailly hits the ground running with bold black fruit preserves, Morello cherries, baked blueberries and tilled earth scents with nuances of fried herbs, chargrilled meat and a ferrous waft plus a touch of menthol. Medium to full-bodied, the taut palate has a firm, grainy texture with a lively line lifting the core of muscular fruit, finishing long and earthy.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - 14/03/2019
{***}{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} {***}
2009 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanPessac-Léognan2009 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanBottle Price 75 cl $1,875.00 -
2006 Baron de Brane, Margaux (Magnum)
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}{***}
2006 Baron de Brane, Margaux (Magnum)Margaux2006 Baron de Brane, Margaux (Magnum)Bottle Price 150 cl $675.00 -
2018 Le C des Carmes Haut-Brion, Pessac-Léognan
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}
-
2017 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-LéognanThis has really attractive aromas of red berry, raspberry and a hint of cassis. A blend of 70 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 25 percent Merlot and five percent Petit Verdot, the mid-palate is fleshed out with a lovely seam of redcurrant and blackcurrant, with a lifted finish. Great acidity, crunchy fruit and good flesh, this will age nicely. A very nice well-balanced Domaine de Chevalier.
Blend: 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot{***}{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}
{***}
2017 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-LéognanPessac-Léognan2017 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-LéognanBottle Price 75 cl $450.00 -
2014 Ch. Gazin, Pomerol
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}
{***}
2014 Ch. Gazin, PomerolPomerol2014 Ch. Gazin, PomerolBottle Price 75 cl $525.00 -
2018 Amiral de Beychevelle, St Julien
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}{***}
2018 Amiral de Beychevelle, St JulienSt Julien2018 Amiral de Beychevelle, St JulienBottle Price 75 cl $320.00 -
2019 L’Innocence de Séraphine, Château Séraphine, Pomerol
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}
{***}
-
2018 Château La Gaffelière, St Emilion
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} {***}
2018 Château La Gaffelière, St EmilionSt Emilion2018 Château La Gaffelière, St EmilionBottle Price 75 cl $600.00 -
2001 Château Chasse-Spleen, Moulis-en-Médoc
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} {***}
2001 Château Chasse-Spleen, Moulis-en-MédocHaut-Médoc2001 Château Chasse-Spleen, Moulis-en-MédocBottle Price 75 cl $525.00 -
2011 Château Suduirant, Sauternes
{***} {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}{***}
2011 Château Suduirant, SauternesBordeaux2011 Château Suduirant, SauternesBottle Price 37.5 cl $250.00 -
2018 Ch. Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Pauillac
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} {***}
-
2000 Ch. la Conseillante, Pomerol (Magnum)The 2000 La Conseillante is much broodier than the previous two vintages, 1998 and 1999. This demands encouragement from the glass, eventually opening with blackberry, briary, black truffle and terracotta scents. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly “furry” tannin. It is not as precise as say, the 2005 or 2010. There is impressive weight here, a concentrated and broad-shouldered La Conseillante, but what is missing is the finesse and poise that more recent vintages have shown. I find the millennial La Conseillante more impressive in its youth, though now it is just looking a little heavy-handed. Tasted at La Conseillante vertical at the property.
Drink 2018 - 2030
{***} {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} {***}
2000 Ch. la Conseillante, Pomerol (Magnum)Pomerol2000 Ch. la Conseillante, Pomerol (Magnum)Bottle Price 150cl $4,935.00 -
2018 La Mondotte, St Emilion
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} {***}
2018 La Mondotte, St EmilionSt Emilion2018 La Mondotte, St EmilionBottle Price 75 cl $1,775.00 -
2007 Ch. Montrose, St EstèpheTasted at BI Wine & Spirits' 10-Years-On tasting, the 2007 Montrose has a crisp, earthy, tobacco-scented bouquet with sage and clove developing in the glass—clearly a Saint Estèphe that is determined to succeed in an off-vintage, which this estate is masterful at doing. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannin. This bottle felt compact for this vintage, one of the few 2007s that merit decanting. However, there is undeniably plenty of freshness and a welcome touch of spice towards the finish. Linear in style, this is one of the few 2007s that should improve with bottle age. Tasted February 2017. Drink 2018-2035. -Neal Martin
{***} {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} {***}
2007 Ch. Montrose, St EstèpheSt Estèphe2007 Ch. Montrose, St EstèpheBottle Price 75cl $795.00Was $815.00 -
2016 Les Tourelles de Longueville, Pauillac
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} {***}
2016 Les Tourelles de Longueville, PauillacPauillac2016 Les Tourelles de Longueville, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $375.00 -
2014 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan
The 2014 Haut Bailly has a charming, quite intense bouquet with layers of blackberry, raspberry coulis, black olive and melted tar scents that soar from the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, well-judged acidity, harmonious and focused with superb density and precision towards the finish. This is a classy number and alongside Domaine de Chevalier, it is one of the standouts from the appellation in this vintage.
Drink 2020 - 2045
{***}{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} {***}
2014 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanPessac-Léognan2014 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanBottle Price 75 cl $645.00 -
2007 Château Beauséjour Duffau-Lagarrosse, St Emilion
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} {***}
-
2001 Ch. du Tertre, Margaux (Ex-Chateau)
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}
{***}
2001 Ch. du Tertre, Margaux (Ex-Chateau)Margaux2001 Ch. du Tertre, Margaux (Ex-Chateau)Bottle Price 75cl $650.00 -
2016 Lacoste Borie, Pauillac
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} {***}
2016 Lacoste Borie, PauillacPauillac2016 Lacoste Borie, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $265.00 -
2010 Ch. Angelus, St. Emilion
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} {***}
2010 Ch. Angelus, St. EmilionSt Emilion2010 Ch. Angelus, St. EmilionBottle Price 75cl $3,375.00 -
2010 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanThose of you who have followed Ch. Haut Bailly’s total regeneration over the last decade with us will not be at all surprised to note that this is their most spectacular wine to date, just pipping the 2009 by a whisker perhaps. If you end up with either of these gems in your cellar, you will be deliriously happy in years to come ‘comparing and contrasting’ these two spectacular vintages.
It has the most beautiful balance of power and weight, without being heavy and clunky. It is a joy to quaff - no other wine in Bordeaux tastes like Haut-Bailly; it’s a genuine marvel.
{***}{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} {***}
2010 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanPessac-Léognan2010 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanBottle Price 75 cl $1,295.00 -
2017 Ch. Rauzan-Segla, Margaux
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}
{***}
2017 Ch. Rauzan-Segla, MargauxMargaux2017 Ch. Rauzan-Segla, MargauxBottle Price 75cl $585.00 -
2014 Vieux Château Certan, Pomerol
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} {***}
2014 Vieux Château Certan, PomerolPomerol2014 Vieux Château Certan, PomerolBottle Price 75cl $1,515.00 -
2016 Ch. Talbot, St Julien
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} {***}
2016 Ch. Talbot, St JulienSt Julien2016 Ch. Talbot, St JulienBottle Price 150 cl $1,125.00 -
2016 Ch. Pichon-Longueville-Baron, PauillacUnder the directorship of Christian Seely, this property has been a strong performer, especially in good vintages, like 2016. The 2016 sits in the glass with a dark hue. The nose displays black fruit and cassis. It is very concentrated on the palate, with solid viscosity and weight – almost like a crashing wave of dark fruit swirling around one’s mouth. There is a lot to unfurl here. The acidity keeps everything in balance and it finishes with a mouth-coating texture and notes of blackcurrant, mocha and coffee. Very good this year.
{***} {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} {***}
2016 Ch. Pichon-Longueville-Baron, PauillacPauillac2016 Ch. Pichon-Longueville-Baron, PauillacBottle Price 75cl $1,335.00 -
2000 Ch. Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Pauillac
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} {***}
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2016 Ch. Léoville-Barton, St JulienDark purple in colour, this has attractive red fruit on the nose and a very suave feel on the palate, with a creaminess to the fruit and a polished, racy, ribbon-like texture. Lots of vitality this year, it finishes super fresh and leaves one hankering for a second glass.
Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon 86%, Merlot 14%
{***} {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} {***}
2016 Ch. Léoville-Barton, St JulienSt Julien2016 Ch. Léoville-Barton, St JulienBottle Price 75cl $935.00 -
2016 Ch. Batailley, Pauillac
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} {***}
2016 Ch. Batailley, PauillacPauillac2016 Ch. Batailley, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $495.00 -
2009 Ch. Batailley, Pauillac
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} {***}
2009 Ch. Batailley, PauillacPauillac2009 Ch. Batailley, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $565.00Was $638.00 -
2005 Ch. Batailley, Pauillac
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} {***}
2005 Ch. Batailley, PauillacPauillac2005 Ch. Batailley, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $680.00 -
2009 Echo de Lynch Bages, Pauillac
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}{***}
2009 Echo de Lynch Bages, PauillacPauillac2009 Echo de Lynch Bages, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $505.00 -
1982 Ch. Léoville Las Cases, St JulienIf the 1855 Classification was rewritten tomorrow there is little doubt that this aristocratic estate would be reclassified as a First Growth. Their 1982 is probably the finest wine Las Cases has ever produced and coming from what many consider to be the finest vintage of the 20th century, it’s little wonder that the combination of magnificent vintage and phenomenal estate produced such an epic wine. Rich, full-bodied, concentrated and bursting with ripe fruit, this is the epitome of elegance, purity and balance. No cellar is complete without this exalted Claret.
{***} {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} {***}
1982 Ch. Léoville Las Cases, St JulienSt Julien1982 Ch. Léoville Las Cases, St JulienBottle Price 75cl $4,215.00 -
2010 L'Extravagant de Doisy-Daëne, BarsacWith 12.2% alcohol and 212 gms residual sugar, the LExtravagant de Doisy-Daene consists of 50% Sauvignon Blanc and 50% Semillion. It has a very taut, controlled bouquet that (pardon the expression) is less extravagant than recent vintages, but is beautifully defined with touches of kiwi fruit, green apple and limestone. The palate is mellifluous on the entry, struck through with brilliant acidity, lending it such tension and freshness that is in tune with the vintage. Denis hopes to have nine barrels of this fabulous Barsac.
{***} {region}Bordeaux{region} {color}White{color} {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text} {vintage}2010{vintage} {ratings} {ratings}{***}
2010 L'Extravagant de Doisy-Daëne, BarsacBordeaux2010 L'Extravagant de Doisy-Daëne, BarsacBottle Price 37.5cl $1,695.00 -
2010 Ch. Pontet-Canet, PauillacA few years ago proprietor Alfred Tesseron gave us a blind tasting of four Pauillac wines from the 1996 vintage. They turned out to be Mouton, Latour, Lafite and Pontet-Canet, and the last-named lost virtually nothing by comparison with its lofty peers. I reckon he could repeat the exercise this year with the same results.
This is a monumental wine, seamlessly brilliant on the palate, exuding class on the bouquet. Everything is in such balance and harmony that I feel I should not bother to find the vocabulary to describe it, so I’ll just say it’s very special. (65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot){***} {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} {***}
2010 Ch. Pontet-Canet, PauillacPauillac2010 Ch. Pontet-Canet, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $1,675.00 -
2005 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan
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} {***}
2005 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanPessac-Léognan2005 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanBottle Price 75 cl $1,050.00 -
2016 Ch. Haut Batailley, Pauillac
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} {***}
2016 Ch. Haut Batailley, PauillacPauillac2016 Ch. Haut Batailley, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $420.00 -
2009 Ch. Haut-Bages Libéral, Pauillac
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}
{***}
2009 Ch. Haut-Bages Libéral, PauillacPauillac2009 Ch. Haut-Bages Libéral, PauillacBottle Price 75cl $455.00 -
2010 Les Tourelles de Longueville, Pauillac
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} {***}
2010 Les Tourelles de Longueville, PauillacPauillac2010 Les Tourelles de Longueville, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $495.00 -
2016 Ch. Giscours, Margaux
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} {***}
2016 Ch. Giscours, MargauxMargaux2016 Ch. Giscours, MargauxBottle Price 75 cl $535.00 -
2006 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-Léognan2006 is a much underrated vintage and as is so often the case, a so-called classic vintage proves its merit after a decade or so in bottle. Domaine de Chevalier is just such a case in point and whilst it’s starting to drink beautifully now, it will continue to mature and develop over the next decade and beyond.
{***}{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}
{***}
2006 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-LéognanPessac-Léognan2006 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-LéognanBottle Price 75 cl $545.00 -
2011 Château Troplong Mondot, St Emilion
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}{***}
2011 Château Troplong Mondot, St EmilionSt Emilion2011 Château Troplong Mondot, St EmilionBottle Price 75 cl $735.00 -
2005 Ch. Gruaud-Larose, St. Julien
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}{***}
2005 Ch. Gruaud-Larose, St. JulienSt. Julien2005 Ch. Gruaud-Larose, St. JulienBottle Price 75cl $915.00 -
2009 Alter Ego de Palmer, Margaux
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} {***}
2009 Alter Ego de Palmer, MargauxMargaux2009 Alter Ego de Palmer, MargauxBottle Price 75 cl $935.00 -
2005 Ch. Pontet-Canet, Pauillac
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} {***}
2005 Ch. Pontet-Canet, PauillacPauillac2005 Ch. Pontet-Canet, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $1,180.00 -
1995 Ch. Gruaud-Larose, St. Julien
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}{***}
1995 Ch. Gruaud-Larose, St. JulienSt. Julien1995 Ch. Gruaud-Larose, St. JulienBottle Price 75cl $995.00 -
2017 Ch. Figeac, St Emilion
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} {***}
2017 Ch. Figeac, St EmilionSt Emilion2017 Ch. Figeac, St EmilionBottle Price 75 cl $1,415.00 -
1995 Ch. Léoville Las Cases, St JulienOnly 35% of the harvest was considered worthy for the first wine, and this is reflected in the superb quality of this wine. Extremely rich with a well-balanced tannic structure, it exhibits lovely ripe fruits and mineral characteristics. An elegant St. Julien.
{***} {region}St Julien {region} {color}Red{color} {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text} {vintage}1995{vintage} {ratings}
{ratings} {***}
1995 Ch. Léoville Las Cases, St JulienSt Julien1995 Ch. Léoville Las Cases, St JulienBottle Price 75cl $2,050.00 -
2017 La Parde de Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan
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} {***}
2017 La Parde de Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanPessac-Léognan2017 La Parde de Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanBottle Price 75 cl $250.00 -
2007 Cuvée d'Exception, Dourthe, Sauternes
{***} {region}Bordeaux{region} {color}White{color} {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text} {vintage}2007{vintage} {ratings}
{ratings}{***}
2007 Cuvée d'Exception, Dourthe, SauternesBordeaux2007 Cuvée d'Exception, Dourthe, SauternesBottle Price 75 cl $255.00 -
2009 Ch. Ormes de Pez, St Estèphe
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} {***}
2009 Ch. Ormes de Pez, St EstèpheSt Estèphe2009 Ch. Ormes de Pez, St EstèpheBottle Price 75 cl $325.00 -
2011 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanAbsolutely brilliant - again! The lovely and charming Veronique Sanders and the team at Ch. Haut-Bailly have done it once more. In a vintage where all the châteaux really did have to craft their babies and contend with more than problematic growing conditions, Ch. Haut-Bailly has come out almost on top of the pile, surpassing several First Growths in quality. Sadly the rigorous selection needed to make the Grand Vin so Grand will make a staggering effect on supply this year in what is an already tiny production.
Incredible intensity and deep red and black fruit with the finest tannins of the vintage coating the palate. It has precision, grace, complexity and power with an outstanding richness that fills the mouth completely. Better than 2009 or 2010? It sort of sits between the two. The power of 2009 and finesse of 2010. A real must have and I think the price will be down on last year, but I worry about being able to buy enough. Heavenly happiness!{***}{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} {***}
2011 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanPessac-Léognan2011 Ch. Haut-Bailly, Pessac-LéognanBottle Price 75 cl $585.00 -
2005 Château Rol Valentin, St Emilion
"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} {***}
2005 Château Rol Valentin, St EmilionSt Emilion2005 Château Rol Valentin, St EmilionBottle Price 75 cl $635.00 -
2001 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Pauillac
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}
{***}
2001 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, PauillacPauillac2001 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, PauillacBottle Price 75cl $785.00 -
2011 Ch. Lynch Bages, Pauillac
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}
{***}
2011 Ch. Lynch Bages, PauillacPauillac2011 Ch. Lynch Bages, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $885.00 -
2009 Ch. Lynch Bages, Pauillac
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}{***}
2009 Ch. Lynch Bages, PauillacPauillac2009 Ch. Lynch Bages, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $1,395.00 -
2009 Ch. Le Crock, St Estèphe
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}{***}
2009 Ch. Le Crock, St EstèpheSt Estèphe2009 Ch. Le Crock, St EstèpheBottle Price 75 cl $265.00 -
2005 Cos d'Estournel, St Estèphe
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} {***}
2005 Cos d'Estournel, St EstèpheSt Estèphe2005 Cos d'Estournel, St EstèpheBottle Price 75cl $1,795.00 -
2010 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Pauillac
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}
{***}
2010 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, PauillacPauillac2010 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, PauillacBottle Price 75cl $760.00 -
2012 Ch. Montrose, St EstèpheIn 2010, Ch. Montrose purchased 22ha of prime land from their neighbours, Ch. Phélan-Ségur. The vineyard exactly borders Montrose on its western side and is planted with 2/3 Merlot and 1/3 Cabernet Sauvignon. According to who you speak with, this may be Phélan’s best parcel and the Merlot is especially prized. This has given the Montrose team a short-term puzzle, resulting in a higher than usual proportion of Merlot in the blend for the Grand Vin. This will be adjusted over the coming years as existing Montrose Merlot on excellent Cabernet land near the river is replanted to the latter, but in the meantime there is an embarrassment of fine Merlot on the estate. Not that this is a problem: in 2012 the Merlot excelled. This wine, with 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, is dense and spicy, with the very low-yielding Cabernet fully ripe and giving an earnest backbone to some high quality Merlot. This is perhaps not a traditional Montrose, but it is certainly a beguiling one.
{***} {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} {***}
2012 Ch. Montrose, St EstèpheSt Estèphe2012 Ch. Montrose, St EstèpheBottle Price 75cl $780.00 -
1996 Les Forts de Latour, Pauillac
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}{***}
1996 Les Forts de Latour, PauillacPauillac1996 Les Forts de Latour, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $2,150.00 -
2005 Ch. Montrose, St EstèpheAs big as ever, Montrose has made a real tour de force in 2005, although it is very much an iron fist in a velvet glove. It is a dense wine with enormous tannins, but the latter are cloaked by sweet, concentrated, ripe cassis and plum fruits. It is only on the incredibly long finish (a real feature of the 2005s) that they really reveal themselves, but even then they are very fine. This is not just a brute though, it has great charm and grace. The 65% Cabernet Sauvignon really comes through and helps give the wine that wonderful earthy St Estèphe personality.
{***} {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} {***}
2005 Ch. Montrose, St EstèpheSt Estèphe2005 Ch. Montrose, St EstèpheBottle Price 75cl $1,495.00 -
2014 Ch. Calon-Ségur, St Estèphe
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} {***}
2014 Ch. Calon-Ségur, St EstèpheSt Estèphe2014 Ch. Calon-Ségur, St EstèpheBottle Price 75cl $895.00 -
2005 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-Léognan
Domaine de Chevalier is among the few Graves estates producing first-class reds and whites. The property was purchased by the Ricard family in 1865 and remained in their hands until it was bought by the Bernard distilling company in 1983.
I fell in love with this, first in the barrel and then bottle. The best wines of 2005 show an irrepressible energy, and as soon as the aromatics of the Chevalier hit you, you can feel the vigour in the rich, intoxicating black fruit and the mineral, gravelly overtones that only great Graves can offer.
The seemingly endless finish and perfect harmony of this wine, combined with the firm yet supple tannins, immensely concentrated fruit and life-giving acidity, look set to make this a legendary Domaine de Chevalier.
Rich, ripe, intense and complex nose. Generous, full, concentrated palate with rich fruit, vanilla and spices."
{***}{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}
{***}
2005 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-LéognanPessac-Léognan2005 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-LéognanBottle Price 75 cl $850.00 -
2010 Ch. Batailley, Pauillac
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} {***}
2010 Ch. Batailley, PauillacPauillac2010 Ch. Batailley, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $675.00 -
2012 Ch. Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Pauillac
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} {***}
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2018 Ch. Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Pauillac
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} {***}
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2009 Ch. Figeac, St Emilion
‘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} {***}
2009 Ch. Figeac, St EmilionSt Emilion2009 Ch. Figeac, St EmilionBottle Price 75 cl $2,095.00 -
2019 Berry Bros. & Rudd Pauillac by Ch. Lynch Bages
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}{***}
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2006 Ch. Lynch Bages, Pauillac
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}{***}
2006 Ch. Lynch Bages, PauillacPauillac2006 Ch. Lynch Bages, PauillacBottle Price 75 cl $1,035.00 -
2008 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Pauillac
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}
{***}
2008 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, PauillacPauillac2008 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, PauillacBottle Price 75cl $570.00