Bordeaux 2009

Wine Spectator


Pomerol


CHÂTEAU L'ÉGLISE CLINET Pomerol 2009 Score: 97-100
The nose on this already suggests a deep and contemplative wine with blackberry, dried flowers and sweet berries. Evolves to black olive and hints of asphalt. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and tangy, rich fruit. It really grabs hold of you and want —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LAFLEUR Pomerol 2009 Score: 97-100
The nose is fascinating, with blackberry, black licorice, mineral, flowers and more. Full-bodied, with an incredible texture of ripe tannins and cashmere yarn. A tightly wound ball. What length too. This wine made me feel like getting in the lotus positio —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PÉTRUS Pomerol 2009 Score: 97-100
What a nose this has. I close my eyes when I smell this, and I see perfectly ripe Merlot grapes crushed in the vats. Blackberry, mineral, black licorice, coffee bean and chocolate lead to a full body, with round yet firm tannins and beautiful fruit. The l —J.S.
CHÂTEAU TROTANOY Pomerol 2009 Score: 97-100
A nose of dark chocolate and crushed raspberry evolves to blackberry and ripe raspberry. Full-bodied, with chewy and powerful tannins that leave a rich and mouthpuckering finish. This is a big and powerful Trot. Wow. Haven't tasted a Trot like this in dec —J.S.
VIEUX-CHÂTEAU-CERTAN Pomerol 2009 Score: 97-100
This has an incredible nose of chocolate and berries that turns to sweet tobacco and China tea leaves. Full-bodied, with a beautiful softness and silkiness that makes you want to keep tasting it. Goes on and on. 84 percent Merlot, 8 percent Cabernet Franc —J.S.
CHÂTEAU L'EVANGILE Pomerol 2009 Score: 96-99
I love the aromas of black olive and blueberry, with mineral and light mint. Full-bodied, with supervelvety tannins. Superlong. This is dense and very beautiful, with such a great core of fruit. Silky texture. Not sure it is going to be better than 2005 ( —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LE PIN Pomerol 2009 Score: 96-99
This is classic Merlot from Pomerol on the nose, with black licorice, black olive and rich fruit. Yet it's subtle and pretty. Full-bodied, and chewy, with loads of power. Tannic and muscular. Chocolate, coffee and vanilla bean. I can't remember a Le Pin l —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA CONSEILLANTE Pomerol 2009 Score: 95-98
Such wonderful clarity to this wine, with violets, black and exotic fruits. Fabulous nose. Full-bodied, with superfine tannins and a silky, silky finish. Such beauty. Really stunning. Class. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA FLEUR-PÉTRUS Pomerol 2009 Score: 95-98
Licorice, blackberry, coffee bean and blueberry aromas; this gets more complex with every sniff. And what a palate. It's so polished, soft and cuddly. Like curling up in a big cashmere blanket. Full-bodied, yet balanced and fresh. Lots of tannins. But all —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PROVIDENCE Pomerol 2009 Score: 95-98
Offers fabulous aromas of crushed blackberry and blueberry, with lightly roasted coffee bean and black olive. Full-bodied, delivering polished, chewy tannins and a long, juicy finish. Rich and powerful. Blockbuster. Roasted fruit on this. Best ever from h —J.S.
CHÂTEAU HOSANNA Pomerol 2009 Score: 93-96
Offers ripe plum, with hints of peach, turning to violet and black olive on the nose. Fascinating aromas. Full-bodied, featuring chewy tannins that turn polished and silky. Long and flavorful at the finish. Refined power. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LATOUR À POMEROL Pomerol 2009 Score: 93-96
Blueberry, with mineral and dried rose petal, lead to a full body, with chewy, yet polished tannins that go on for minutes. Solid and very pretty. Grows on the palate. Best in years. Very serious indeed. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU NENIN Pomerol 2009 Score: 93-96
What a nose of raspberry jam and violets. Amazingly rich and ripe, yet balanced and elegant. Full-bodied, with layers of ripe tannins and wonderfully ripe fruit. Opulent and sexy. Best since the 1950s? —J.S.
PENSÉES DE LAFLEUR Pomerol 2009 Score: 92-95
Dark chocolate, black cherry and blackberry. Full-bodied, with very silky tannins and lots of chocolate and berry flavors. I love the length to this; it goes on for minutes. Second wine of Lafleur. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PETIT-VILLAGE Pomerol 2009 Score: 92-95
This is sexy, with beautiful ripe fruit and spices. Full bodied, with focused fruit and a long finish. Racy. So focused. Class. Best ever? —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA POINTE Pomerol 2009 Score: 92-95
Violets, berries and black olive on the nose. Gorgeous. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, juicy finish. Lovely fruit and acidity to this wine. One of the best La Pointes for a long time. —J.S.
ROMULUS Pomerol 2009 Score: 92-95
Blueberry, with hints of tropical fruit on the nose. Full-bodied, with a rich and concentrated palate, yet balanced and focused. Serious stuff. This is a selection of the best from La Croix Taillefer. Tiny production and superhip. Organic. —J.S.
BLASON DE L'EVANGILE Pomerol 2009 Score: 90-93
Perfumed with lovely fruit here. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a long finish. So pretty and yummy. 76 percent Merlot and 24 percent Cabernet Franc. The second wine of L'Evangile. Has more Cabernet Franc this year due to new vines coming into produc —J.S.
CHÂTEAU BOURGNEUF Pomerol 2009 Score: 90-93
Displays crushed Merlot grapes on the nose, and lovely pure, grapey fruit character. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and lots of fruit. A little one-dimensional, but I really appreciate the concentration. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU CERTAN DE MAY Pomerol 2009 Score: 90-93
I love the dark fruit and underlying aromas of fresh herbs and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with a lovely silky texture and a clean, fresh, fruity and delicate finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA CROIX DU CASSE Pomerol 2009 Score: 90-93
Delicious berry, milk chocolate character on the nose and palate. Medium- to full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a medium finish. I like how it is held back and in a more reserved style. 93 percent Merlot and 7 percent Cabernet. Borie Manoux took it over —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA CROIX TAILLEFER Pomerol 2009 Score: 90-93
This is beautiful, with sweet and ripe fruit and balance. Seduces with its subtlety. Full-bodied, but balanced. Such real fruit here. Yummy. Organic. —J.S.
DUO DE CONSEILLANTE Pomerol 2009 Score: 90-93
Gorgeous blackberry and milk chocolate on the nose follow through to a medium body, with ultrafine tannins and a pretty finish of ripe fruit and toasted oak. All in balance. Second wine of Conseillante. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA FLEUR DE GAY Pomerol 2009 Score: 90-93
Plum and dark berries, with coffee. Full-bodied and very extracted. Big and powerful. May be a little overdone, but let's see. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA CROIX-DE-GAY Pomerol 2009 Score: 89-92
Pretty and juicy, with berry and cherry fruit. Full-bodied, soft and friendly. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DU DOMAINE DE L'ÉGLISE Pomerol 2009 Score: 89-92
Floral and aromatic, with blackberry and raspberry. Full and silky, with very fine tannins and pretty fruit. Like the finesse and refinement. But then it grabs you. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA GRAVE À POMEROL Pomerol 2009 Score: 89-92
A firm and tight red, with berry, mineral and light cappuccino aromas and flavors. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins that turn soft. Delicate finish. A little shy. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PLINCE Pomerol 2009 Score: 89-92
Aromas of boysenberry syrup with hint of licorice follow through to a full body, with a dense palate and slightly chewy tannins. Juicy wine, with a slightly rustic edge. But I like it. —J.S.
FUGUE DE NENIN Pomerol 2009 Score: 88-91
Supergrapey and rich, with blackberry and mineral. Some licorice. Full-bodied, with juicy tannins and a pretty, grapey finish. Second wine of Nenin. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LAFLEUR-GAZIN Pomerol 2009 Score: 88-91
Perfumed and fruity on the nose, with medium body and firm tannins. The finish turns to ripe strawberries and raspberries. A little subdued. —J.S.
LA PETITE ÉGLISE Pomerol 2009 Score: 88-91
Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a fresh finish. There's plenty of sweet fruit in this second wine. 100 percent Merlot. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU VRAY-CROIX-DE-GAY Pomerol 2009 Score: 88-91
Sweet plum and dried fruits on the nose. Medium-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and a medium finish. Delicious already. We will see if it fills in the center palate. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU MOULINET Pomerol 2009 Score: 87-90
Blueberry and floral aromas follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fruity finish. A little hollow, but clean and pretty. —J.S.
St.-Emilion

CHÂTEAU AUSONE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 97-100
Such a dreamy, perfumed aroma to this wine. Full-bodied, but wonderfully polished and integrated. It touches every millimeter of your palate and the texture makes you want to cry. It touches your soul. Goes on for minutes. Another perfect red? —J.S.
CHÂTEAU FIGEAC St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 97-100
Really fabulous on the nose, with sweet milk chocolate, flowers, currant and plum. Full-bodied, with incredible length. The tannins are so silky, but they are warm and cuddly. You just want to hug it. Powerful but so attractive. The blend is one third eac —J.S.
CHÂTEAU CHEVAL-BLANC St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 96-99
I have never smelled a Cheval like this, with red fruit and an undertone of seashell, lilac and sandalwood that makes you dream, turning to chocolate. Full-bodied, but tight and precise with a laser-guided finish of ultrafine tannins. Superlong. 60 percen —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PAVIE-MACQUIN St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 96-99
Superfocused and beautiful, like looking at Mont Blanc with a clear sky and a blanket of snow. Full and refined, with gorgeous fruit and wonderful refinement. Silky tannins. Clearly the best ever. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU BELLEVUE-MONDOTTE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 95-98
Breathtaking aromas of crushed blackberries, dark chocolate and cassis. Full-bodied, with big and velvety tannins and intense fruit. Long finish. Massive. But polished and very balanced. Could prove to be the best of the Perse wines in 2009. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU CANON St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 95-98
What a gorgeous nose, with sweet and delicate fruits such as sliced plums that turn to milk chocolate and flowers. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, long finish. You want to drink this right away. 75 percent Merlot and 25 percent Cabernet Franc. —J.S.
CHAPELLE D'AUSONE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 95-98
Delivers blueberry and blackberry aromas, with hints of dark chocolate. Full-bodied, featuring chewy, rich tannins and a beautiful velvety texture. This is superb. Really structured. —J.S.
LA MONDOTTE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 95-98
Black olive, green olive and coffee bean. Ripe fruit too. Full-bodied, with velvety and polished tannins and fabulous fruit. Love the texture and depth of fruit to this wine. So long too. Tangy freshness at the end. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PAVIE-DECESSE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 95-98
Tar and blackberry on the nose, with hints of licorice. Full-bodied and very concentrated, with loads of blackberry fruit. Massive. But slightly less extracted than the Pavie. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU ANGÉLUS St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 94-97
Concentrated aromas of boysenberry and raspberry jam. Full-bodied and powerful, with beautiful fruit-coated tannins and a long, spicy, rich aftertaste. All there for a top vintage from Angélus. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU CANON-LA GAFFELIÈRE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 94-97
The Cabernet Franc really comes out here, with roasted berry, coffee bean and citrus following through to blackberry. Full-bodied, with fabulous concentration of fruit and supersoft tannins, a long, long finish. This is so juicy and wonderful. No dry tann —J.S.
LUCIA St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 94-97
Violets and dark berries, with loads of aromas. Full-bodied, with a gorgeous core of sweet and ripe fruit. Long and dense, yet stylish. 10 acres. Next to Clos Fortet. 90 percent Merlot and 10 percent Cabernet Franc. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PAVIE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 94-97
Blackberry, black cherry, licorice and mineral. Full-bodied, with a big core of velvety tannins and rich fruit. Full throttle, and all there. Really massive. Blockbuster and more. Could be a tad overdone. But we will see in bottle. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU BEAUSÉJOUR DUFFAU-LAGAROSSE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 93-96
Offers floral and licorice notes, with gorgeous fruit. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a beautiful, very long finish. Very fine and racy. Really serious. Stéphane Derenoncourt is now consulting here and I expect great things. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA DOMINIQUE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 93-96
Sweet berry and plum, with wild cherry. Full and velvety. Long finish. Clear and focused fruit. Best in years? —J.S.
CHÂTEAU GODEAU St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 93-96
Fab nose. Licorice and dark cherries. What a palate. Full body, with super silky tannins and a long, long finish. Seductive juice, polished and gorgeous. This is next to Tertre Roteboeuf. 95 Merlot, 5 percent Cabernet Franc. —J.S.
CLOS DE L'ORATOIRE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Loads of aniseed and black licorice aromas. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a lovely balance of fruit, and everything else. Love the length. 90 percent Merlot and 10 percent Cabernet Franc. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA CROIX FIGEAC St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Blackberry with licorice and black olive on the nose. Full-bodied, with lots of richness. Very concentrated, but I think it will come around just right. 80 percent Merlot, 20 percent Cabernet. This is really full throttle. Rock and roll. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA GAFFELIÈRE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Racy and beautiful, with blueberry and blackberry aromas and flavors. Solid core of everything. Impressive. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU BÉLAIR-MONANGE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 91-94
Delivers intense blueberry and blackberry, with hints of dark chocolate. Medium- to full-bodied, showing firm, silky tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Precise fruit. Racy, ripe tannins. Formerly Belair, and much better quality. —J.S.
CLOS DES PRINCE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 91-94
Sweet berry and currant on the nose turn to flowers. Solid core of fruit and superpolished tannins. Really fine. Really serious. Yummy. Vineyards next door to Monbousquet. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA COUSPAUDE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 91-94
Blackberry and blueberry, with Indian spices. Full-bodied, with vanilla and berry fruit. Long and beautiful. Juicy and gorgeous. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU HAUT SIMARD St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 91-94
Blueberry and mineral, with hints of flowers, lead to a full body, with velvety, rich tannins and a long, juicy finish. Beautiful. 70 percent Merlot and 30 percent Cabernet. This is made from the same team as Ausone. Made from 15 acres. —J.S.
CAPET-GUILLIER St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 90-93
Floral and blueberry aromas, with lots of violets. Full bodied, with supersilky tannins and a long, caressing finish. Tight and racy. Lots of wood at the end. Very close to Magrez-Fombrauge. —J.S.
CLOS DES JACOBINS St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 90-93
Blueberry and flowers on the nose follow through to a full body, with a mineral, slate and dark berry undertone. Tar too. Long and silky. —J.S.
CLOS LA MADELEINE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 90-93
Sweet berry and coffee aromas follow through to a full body, with reserved yet silky tannins and a long and juicy finish. Balanced and refined. Dense. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU HAUT-CORBIN St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 90-93
Crushed berries with lovely flowers on the nose. Full-bodied, with chewy yet polished tannins and plenty of fruit. Excellent length. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU JEAN-FAURE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 90-93
Floral and berry aromas, with hints of fresh flowers. Full-bodied, with a refined and silky tannin structure and a coffee and berry aftertaste. 55 percent Cabernet Franc and 45 percent Merlot. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU MOULIN-ST.-GEORGES St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 90-93
Offers blueberry and mineral on the nose. Full-bodied, with a tight tannin structure and juicy fruit. Bright acidity. Very lively. —J.S.
LE PETIT CHEVAL St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 90-93
Delivers plum and spices on the nose, with hints of coffee and black licorice. Full-bodied, offering a wonderful silky texture and a long, long finish. So inviting and delicious already. —J.S.
SAINTAYME St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 90-93
I love the dark fruits in this, with loads of black olive and red fruits too. Full-bodied, but so refined and delicious already. Lovely length. 100 percent Merlot. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA SERRE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 90-93
Blueberry, blackberry and mineral aromas follow through to a full body, with fine tannins and a juicy, chocolate finish, turning velvety and beautiful. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU TROTTEVIEILLE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 90-93
A solid red with spice, raspberry and coffee bean character on the nose and palate. Full and chewy, but silky and delicious. Much less production because of the hail in May, but they did well. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU ADAUGUSTA St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 89-92
Pretty and balanced red, with sweet berries and citrus underneath. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a fresh finish. A new wine for me. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU L'ARROSÉE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 89-92
Silky and very pretty with cedar and chocolate aromas and flavors. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a clean finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU MONBOUSQUET St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 89-92
Milk chocolate with bright berry character on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and gorgeous ripe fruit. Long and caressing. A little overripe. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU QUINAULT-L'ENCLOS St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 89-92
Porty, with fresh herb and almond on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a fruity, chocolate and tobacco aftertaste. A new and more refined style for Quinault. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA TOUR DU PIN St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 89-92
Soft and silky, with round and fine tannins. Medium- to full-bodied, with lovely texture and fresh acidity. Long and inviting. —J.S.
VIEUX-CHÂTEAU-ST.-ANDRE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 89-92
Blackberry and blueberry with just a whiff of flowers. Full-bodied, with superfine tannins and a lovely finish of sea shells, stones, and fruit. 80 percent Merlot and 20 percent Cabernet Franc. The Berrouet family, winemakers of Pétrus, are owners here. G —J.S.
CHÂTEAU BELLEVUE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Lovely juicy and ripe fruit on the nose. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and lots of bright fruit. Fresh jam. Slightly hollow center palate at the moment, but should fill in nicely. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU BERGAT St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Blueberry and mineral aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. This estate was hammered by hail in May. But the small production is very delicious. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA BIENFAISANCE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Silky and refined, with beautiful berry and licorice aromas. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a beautiful finish. Like it. —J.S.
LE CARILLON DE L'ANGÉLUS St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Very chewy, with ripe dark fruits and a mineral, spicy character. Full and silky, with a medium finish. Second wine of L'Angélus. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA COMMANDERIE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Dried flowers, with blueberry and blackberry on the nose and palate. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a slightly mouth-drying feel. A little overextracted. But stylish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DAUGAY St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Aromatic with blueberry character. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a juicy, fruity finish. Delicate. Very fine. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU FAURIE-DE-SOUCHARD St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Violets and berries, with hints of flowers on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied, with a solid core of tannins and a chewy finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DE FONBEL St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Pretty Cabernet Franc aromas of crushed berries and some milk chocolate. Medium- to full-bodied, with soft and silky tannins. Long sweet fruit on the finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU GUADET St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Love the berry and currant character here. Full-bodied, with soft tannins and a pretty finish. In harmony. Fruit and ripe tannins. Yes. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LAROZE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Blueberry and mineral aromas follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a medium finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU MAGDELAINE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Blueberry and floral aromas follow through to a full body, with racy tannins and a compacted berry and chocolate aftertaste. Expected a little more from this. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU SIMARD St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Aromas of earth, spices and meat follow through to a full body, with juicy fruit and bright acidity. Tangy and fruity. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA TOUR FIGEAC St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Blueberry and cream pie aromas, yet subtle and aromatic. Medium- to full-bodied, with lovely integrated tannins and a long finish. Polished. —J.S.
TROIS ORIGINES St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Sweet dark berries and flowers here. Aromatic. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a slightly chewy finish. A tad overdone. But lots of good fruit. —J.S.
CLOS DES MENUTS St.-Emilion L'Excellence 2009 Score: 87-90
Licorice and currant on the nose. Medium-bodied, with good fruit and a simple finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU EDMUS St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 87-90
Lilac and dark berries on the nose. Medium-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a mineral, berry and currant aftertaste. A new wine to watch. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LE JURAT St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 87-90
Blackberry and blueberry galore on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied, with slightly overly chewy tannins but some good fruit underneath. We will see. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LUSSEAU St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 87-90
Sweet berry and floral aromas follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fresh finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DES LAUDES St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 86-89
A little hollow but clean and attractive, with berry and light cream character. Medium finish. —J.S.
L'ART DES MUNCH St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 84-87
Spicy and earthy, with ripe fruit on the nose. Medium-bodied, with delicate fruit and a slightly hot finish. Not showing all that well. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU MUNCH St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 84-87
A good core of pretty berry fruit, with chewy tannins and a medium finish. A little hollow. —J.S.
St.-Emilion Satellite Appellations

CHÂTEAU LYONNAT Lussac-St.-Emilion Emotion 2009 Score: 92-95
Coffee and ripe plum, with hints of prune on the nose. Full-bodied, with beautiful fruit and supersilky tannins. Long and gorgeous. Best ever from here. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU BEAUSÉJOUR Montagne-St.-Emilion Montagne-St.-Emilion 1901 2009 Score: 90-93
Sweet berry and flowers on the nose. Violets. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and lots of new wood. A little overdone. But shows serious potential. —J.S.
VIEUX CHÂTEAU PALON Montagne-St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 89-92
Excellent core of fruit in this young wine, with silky tannins and a long, pretty finish. Well done. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU BEAUSÉJOUR Montagne-St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Crushed berries and blackberries on the nose. Floral undertone. Full-bodied, with super well-integrated tannins and a long finish. Racy. Excellent for the appellation. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU SOLEIL Puisseguin-St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 88-91
Coffee and dried fruits that turn to prune on the nose. Full-bodied, with loads of tannins that are a little overextracted. But should come out very good. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU HAUT-BERNAT Puisseguin-St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 86-89
Lovely sweet fruit, with flowers and slate on the nose. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. A little hollow. —J.S.

St.-Estèphe

CHÂTEAU COS-D'ESTOURNEL St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 97-100
This smells like Harlan a bit. Supercharged in fruit, with intense aromas of tar, spice, cardamon, clove, blackberry and black pepper. Crazy nose. Full-bodied, with masses of fruit, yet focused and in form. Chewy tannins, with great length. This goes on a —J.S.
CHÂTEAU MONTROSE St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 97-100
Big and structured, delivering wild aromas of Indian spices, crushed berry, sweet tobacco and coffee. Full-bodied, with loads of velvety, chewy tannins and a long spicy finish. The château says this is like the 1990, but I think it could be even better. I —J.S.
CHÂTEAU CALON-SÉGUR St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 93-96
Delivers gorgeous aromas of blackberry, blueberry and licorice, with hints of tobacco and spice. Full-bodied, offering a lovely texture and refinement. Very long and beautiful, with tangy acidity and lively fruit. A rich, yet very balanced, Calon. This is —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LILIAN LADOUYS St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 92-95
Dark color, with a spiced nose of cloves and cardamom. Tar too. Full-bodied, with round and velvety tannins and a rich, fruity aftertaste. Gorgeous young wine. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU MEYNEY St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 92-95
Spicy and beautiful with blackberry and currant character. Full and silky, with beautiful fruit and a long finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU TOUR DES TERMES St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 92-95
Wow. Great nose of bright dark berries and currant, with Indian spices as well. Full-bodied, with round and chewy tannins, but polished and very pretty and enticing. Big juicy wine with balance. This small estate continues to make excellent wines in top v —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LE CROCK St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 91-94
Blueberry and licorice aromas follow through to a full body, with a dense and powerful palate and a long, flavorful, velvet-textured finish. Very well done for this estate. From the owner of Léoville-Poyferré. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DOMEYNE St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 91-94
Full-bodied, with plenty of ripe fruit, toasted oak and spices. Long and caressing. A relatively new estate to watch. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU BEAU-SITE St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 90-93
This is sweet and beautiful, with a lovely combination of ripe tannins and pretty fruit. Full-bodied, but balanced and long. But the second sip, it really grabs you. One to look for. 24 percent Merlot, 70 Cabernet Sauvignon, 3 percent Cabernet Franc and 3 —J.S.
LES PAGODES DE COS St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 90-93
Wow. Intense aromas of blackberry, toasted nuts and spices follow through to full body, with layers of fruit and wonderful length. Very, very impressive. For a second wine, this is quite the glassful. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PHÉLAN-SÉGUR St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 90-93
Deep aromas of crushed blackberries and fresh herbs. Full-bodied, with round and soft tannins and a polished texture on the finish. Rich and structured. Could be best ever from here. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU SERILHAN St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 90-93
Very spicy and rich on the nose. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins that turn round and soft. Lots of fruit, too. Yummy wine. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU HAUT-BEAUSÉJOUR St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 89-92
Blueberry and spices on the nose. Full-bodied, with a lovely density of fruit and silky tannins. Long and rich. Best wine ever from here? 60 percent Merlot and 40 percent Cabernet Sauvignon. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LAFON-ROCHET St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 89-92
Currant and spices on the nose follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Solid structure. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU TRONQUOY-LALANDE St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 89-92
Mineral, with raspberry and blueberry on the nose. Full and powerful, with a lovely ripe tannin structure and a long raspberry finish. Same owners as Montrose and same winemaker, Jean Delmas. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU COS-LABORY St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 88-91
Very pretty aromas of sliced plums and blueberries, with hints of mineral, follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fruity finish with hints of vanilla bean and coffee. —J.S.
LA DAME DE MONTROSE St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 88-91
Aromas of berries, currant and citrus fruit follow through to a full body, with firm and chewy tannins and a medium finish. A little hollow in the midpalate. Second wine of Montrose. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DE PEZ St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 86-89
A straightforward wine with spicy fruit and a medium body. Medium finish. We will see. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA HAYE St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 85-88
Licorice and berry aromas follow through to a medium body, with chewy tannins that turn a little dry. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU TRONQUOY DE ST.-ANNE St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 85-88
Chocolate and berry character on the nose and palate. Medium-bodied, with a soft tannin structure and light finish. Second wine of Tronquoy. —J.S.
St.-Julien

CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE LAS CASES St.-Julien 2009 Score: 97-100
Black color. What a nose. Black licorice, raspberry, currant and dried flowers galore. Full-bodied and superpowerful, with masses of fruit and toasted oak, but a blockbuster finish of fruit, tannins and everything else. I have never tasted such a flashy s —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DUCRU-BEAUCAILLOU St.-Julien 2009 Score: 96-99
This has an impressive powerful and hearty structure, with seductive floral, currant and licorice aromas and flavors, showing powerful tannins at the end. This sneaks up on you at the end. Structured and very, very powerful. The blockbuster tannins are sw —J.S.
CHÂTEAU GRUAUD-LAROSE St.-Julien 2009 Score: 94-97
Beautiful aromas of currant, black licorice and blueberry follow through to a full body, with chewy tannins and a long, juicy finish. Big wine. Could be better than the classic 2000. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE POYFERRÉ St.-Julien 2009 Score: 93-96
Wonderful aromas of currant and blackberry, with black olives. Full-bodied, with a mouth-coating palate of supersoft tannins that go on and on. Solid and polished. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU BRANAIRE-DUCRU St.-Julien 2009 Score: 92-95
Aromas of blueberry, dried citrus fruit and currant. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long, long finish. Structured and tannic, but sweet fruit behind. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE BARTON St.-Julien 2009 Score: 92-95
Licorice, berry, grape and currant on the nose turns to crushed fruit. Full-bodied, with very fine tannins, pretty fruit, currant and mineral. A balanced and pretty wine. Not quite the intensity and blockbuster style of the 2005, but excellent. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DU GLANA St.-Julien 2009 Score: 91-94
Loads of black currant and blueberry on the nose. Full-bodied, with caressing tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Lots going on here. Yet subtle. Best in a long time. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LAGRANGE St.-Julien 2009 Score: 91-94
Intense aromas of blackberry and smoke. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and long finish. Solid and tight. As it should be. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU ST.-PIERRE St.-Julien 2009 Score: 91-94
Sultanas and subtle spices on the nose. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and excellent fruit concentration. Long and succulent. Stylish stuff. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU BEYCHEVELLE St.-Julien 2009 Score: 90-93
Sweet berry and floral aromas, with a creamy undertone. Full-bodied, with a dense and polished palate, fine tannins and a long finish. Best since 2000? —J.S.
CHÂTEAU GLORIA St.-Julien 2009 Score: 90-93
Crushed blackberries and fresh herbs on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, rich finish. Solid core of everything here. Right up there with the 2005. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LANGOA BARTON St.-Julien 2009 Score: 90-93
Opulent blackberry aromas. Lovely jam, but fresh. Full-bodied and rich. This wine sneaks up on you and follows on the end with lots of chewy tannins. Balanced and round. —J.S.
CLOS DU MARQUIS St.-Julien 2009 Score: 89-92
Raspberry and wild currant on the nose. Full-bodied, with superfine tannins and a long, pretty finish. Plenty of currant and mineral character. Builds on the finish. Tannic. —J.S.
CROIX DE BEAUCAILLOU St.-Julien 2009 Score: 89-92
Rose, mineral, currant and berries on the nose. Full-bodied, with firm and chewy tannins and a long finish. Polished and pretty. Could use a little bit more in the center palate, but very good indeed. Second wine of Ducru. —J.S.
LE PETIT LION St.-Julien 2009 Score: 88-91
Currants on toasted bread character on the nose and palate. Medium- to full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a medium finish. Balanced and attractive. This is the new second wine from Las Cases. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LALANDE-BORIE St.-Julien 2009 Score: 87-90
Wonderful aromas of flowers such as roses. Full-bodied, with firm and precise tannins. Fresh fruit, with a citrus undertone. Medium finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU MOULIN RICHE St.-Julien 2009 Score: 86-89
Aromatic, with raspberry and currant character that follows through to a medium body, with good fruit, firm tannins and a simple finish. Second wine of Léoville-Poyferré. —J.S.
Other

CHÂTEAU LA CROIX LARTIGUE Côtes de Bordeaux 2009 Score: 92-95
Black licorice and dark chocolate aromas. Full-bodied, with lots of juicy fruit and a coffee, cocoa finish. Serious tannin structure as well. A small-production wine from the team of Stéphane Derenoncourt, who are all leasing the property. First made in 2 —J.S.
CHÂTEAU CÔTE MONTPEZAT Côtes de Bordeaux Cuvee Compostelle 2009 Score: 91-94
Beautiful nose of crushed blueberries and raspberries. Full-bodied, with soft and velvety tannins and lots of pretty fruit. —J.S.
ROC Côtes de Castillon 2009 Score: 91-94
Sweet fruit, with loads of subtle raspberry and blueberry. Full and silky. Excellent finish. Wow. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA ROUSSELLE Fronsac 2009 Score: 91-94
Beautiful clarity of fruit here, with licorice, blackberry and currant. Full and silky, long and racy. Dig it. Best ever baby. —J.S.
DOMAINE DE L'A Côtes de Bordeaux 2009 Score: 90-93
Blueberry and violets on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Lovely raciness and balance to this. A little closed, but classy. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU D'AIGUILHE Côtes de Castillon 2009 Score: 90-93
Spearmint, vanilla bean and dried dark fruits on the nose follow through to a full body, with silky tannins and a fruity finish. Still in reserve, but excellent. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU GIGAULT Premières Côtes de Blaye Cuvee Viva 2009 Score: 90-93
Grapey, with lots of mineral and floral aromas that follow through to a full body, with well-integrated tannins and a juicy, fruity finish. Love the raspberries. Excellent as usual. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LES GRANDS MARÉCHAUX Côtes de Blaye 2009 Score: 89-92
Licorice and tar on the nose. Full-bodied, with a lovely core of fruit and silky tannins. Focused and clear. Could be best ever from here. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU HAUT-BALLET Fronsac 2009 Score: 88-91
Lovely berry, cherry and floral aromas. Turns to toasted oak and chocolate, but subtle. Medium-bodied, with medium chewy tannins and a delicious finish. Like it. —J.S.
LES CHARMES DE CLOS CHAUMONT Premières Côtes de Bordeaux 2009 Score: 87-90
Clean and fruity, with plums and hints of vanilla bean. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. —J.S.
CLOS LES LUNELLES Côtes de Castillon 2009 Score: 87-90
Blackberry and mineral aromas follow through to a medium to full body, with firm tannins and a spicy, berry and coffee bean finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DE FRANCS Côtes de Francs Les Cerisiers 2009 Score: 87-90
Spicy, with asphalt and ripe fruit aromas and flavors. Medium- to full-bodied, with medium chewy tannins and a clean finish. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU HOSTENS-PICANT Ste.-Foy-Bordeaux Luscullus Cuvee d'Exception 2009 Score: 87-90
Subtle sliced plum and dark chocolate. Medium body. Chewy. Medium finish. Good density of fruit and tannins. Lots of new wood, but stuff underneath. We will see. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA PRADE Côtes de Francs 2009 Score: 87-90
Fresh plum and berry aromas follow through to a medium body, with a good density of fruit and a medium finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PUYGUERAUD Côtes de Francs 2009 Score: 87-90
Mineral and blackberry skins aromas follow through to a full body, with mineral and spice flavors and a long finish. Yummy despite a tough growing season due to hail. Little dry. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DE CHANTEGRIVE Graves 2009 Score: 86-89
Mushroom and spice aromas with ripe fruit follow through to a medium body, with velvety tannins and a medium finish. A little simple. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DES FOUGÈRES Graves Clos Montesquieu 2009 Score: 86-89
Bright berry and currant on the nose. Medium-bodied, with bright acidity and a simple finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU HOSTENS-PICANT Ste.-Foy-Bordeaux 2009 Score: 86-89
I like the soft tannins and sweet fruit to this wine. Full and round, with plum and berry character. Subtle. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU VRAI CANON BOUCHÉ Canon-Fronsac 2009 Score: 85-88
Currant and spices on the nose and palate. Medium-bodied, but with a slightly lean finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU FERRANDE Graves 2009 Score: 83-86
A simple red, with some berry and chocolate character. Light finish. —J.S.

Bordeaux 2008

Bordeaux 2008
De la Cour d'Argent
Robert Parker (86-87): “…Another reliable bargain-priced Bordeaux, the 2008 La Cour d’Argent reveals good fruit, medium body, plenty of earth and spice, and the vintage’s fresh, lively acids. It should drink nicely for several years“

Charmail Cru Bourgeois
Robert Parker (87-89): “…Very low yields of 32 hectoliters per hectare as well as a backward style suggest that this wine's malolactic had only recently finished when I tasted it. Its dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by a chunky, fruity personality,loads of sweet black fruits, herbs, and earth, a boatload of tannin, and a high natural alcohol content of 13%. It will benefit from several years of cellaring, and should age nicely for 7-8 years.

Haut-Madrac Cru Bourgeois
Weinwisser : 17/20 „..Mittleres Rubin-Violett. Wunderschönes Brombeer-Heidelbeerbouquet, dunkle
Schokospäne, reif und wohlig duftend mit schönen Röstaromen. Im Gaumen viel Saft und Souplesse,
weiche Tannine, blaubeerige Frucht und Black Currant. Excellent vinifizierter Wein“.

Les Grands Chenes Cru Bourgeois
Robert Parker (87-89): “…This is a name that frugal consumers should remember as the consistently well-made Les Grands Chenes is part of the Bernard Magrez empire, which is synonymous with exceptionally high quality across the board. Ablend of 55% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Cabernet Franc that was harvested between October 8-24, the 2008's deep ruby/purple color is followed by sweet notes of currants, blackberries, new saddle leather, charcoal, and smoke. It is a fresh, medium to full-bodied, seriously endowed, charming, elegant Medoc to consume during its first decade of life.

Potensac Médoc

Robert Parker (90-92): “…Perhaps the finest Potensac made since the 1982, the 2008 is undoubtedly a sleeper of thevintage. Harvested between October 4-16, this blend of 42% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 18% Cabernet Franc was fashioned from modest yields of 44 hectoliters per hectare. While lacking the prestige of a grand cru classe, it offers an amazingdisplay of sweet black cherry and cassis fruit intermixed with notions of earth and spice. Good purity, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, a seamless balance, ripe tannins, and fresh acids result in an amazing wine that should sell for a song. It should evolve for a decade or more.

WineSpectator
(Score: 88-91):
„.. Offers currant and blackberry. Very aromatic. Full-bodied, with
silky tannins and bright acidity. Very fresh. The best Potensac in years. — J.S.

Tour de Pez Cru Bourgeois
Weinwisser : 18/20 „…Mittleres Granat-Purpur, feiner Rand. Erotisches Bouquet, volle süsse Frucht,
Kokos und Vanille sowie feine Zedernnoten und den barriques. Ein Mund voll Wein, burgundisch, cremig, weich mit Amarenaund Rotkirschennoten, schöne Länge. Ein erotischer St. Estèphe, sehr modern vinifiziert, einen königlichen Genuss bietend“.

Les Pagodes de Cos 2ème Vin du Cos
Robert Parker (90-92): “…The second wine, the 2008 Les Pagodes de Cos, is the finest example of this cuvee yet made. A blend of 53% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2% Petit Verdot, with a natural alcohol of 13.5%, it offers beautiful freshness along with sweet, pure notes of creme de cassis, earth, and forest floor. Sweet tannin, striking concentration, and a lush style make for an impressive wine that should drink beautifully for 15+ years.

Boutisse St-Emilion Grand Cru
Robert Parker (88-90): “…A strong effort for this fairly-priced cuvee, the 2008 is one of the finest wines I have tasted from Boutisse. Displaying spicy oak, tobacco leaf, licorice, and smoky elements intermixed with sweet red and black currant fruit, this ripe, round, generous St.-Emilion is ideal for drinking during its first 12-15 years of life.

d’Aiguilhe (Neipperg) Côtes de Castillon
Robert Parker (90-92): “…A sleeper of the vintage as well as a great bargain, this effort from Stefan von
Neipperg’s empire is a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Like so many of his wines, the grapes are handharvested in small plastic containers, there is strict temperature control, a month-long maceration, a Burgundian punch down (pigeage), malolactic takes place in oak, and the wine is aged sur-lie. An inky/purple color is followed by a beautiful bouquet of crushed rocks, black raspberries, and blueberries, sensational intensity, sweet, but high tannins, good acidity, and amazing length, especially for a wine of this pedigree. It should drink nicely for a decade“.

Vrai Canon Bouche Canon-Fronsac
Robert Parker (91-94): “…The finest offering from the Canon-Fronsac appellation, Vrai Canon Bouche’s 2008 was made from remarkably low yields of 20 hectoliters per hectare (about one-half to one-third of normal). The wine achieved 14.5% natural alcohol, and boasts stunning concentration, full body, and a gorgeous bouquet of spring flowers, blueberry pie, black raspberries, and charcoal. Dense and full-bodied with stunning purity, good acidity, and a 30-second finish, it is a blend of 98% Merlot and 2% Malbec. A superb over-achiever as well as a sleeper of the vintage, it isn’t
surprising that Stephane Derenoncourt is the consultant at this estate“

Les Cruzelles Lalande de Pomerol
Robert Parker (90-92): “…Probably the finest wine yet produced by proprietor Denis Durantou, this sleeper of the vintage exhibits beautifully ripe black raspberry and black cherry fruit interwoven with notes of truffles, licorice, and flowers. Surprisingly dense, with medium to full body, silky tannins, and lovely freshness, this is a concentrated, fleshy, mouthfilling Lalande de Pomerol to drink during its first 10-15 years of life.


2008 Top-Scoring Red Bordeaux – James Sucking – W.S.


St-Emilion
CHÂTEAU AUSONE St.-Emilion 2008 Score: 93-96
Floral and perfumed, with blackberry and black cherry aromas. Minerally and pretty. So
Burgundian on the nose. Full and supersilky, with a solid core of beautiful fruit. A wonderfully
textured wine, with great length. Impressive for the vintage. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU CHEVAL-BLANC St.-Emilion 2008 Score: 92-95
Offers blackberry and flowers on the nose, with hints of prune and spices. Full and chewy, with
vanilla and rose petal. This is muscular and angular now, but the finish lasts a long time. —J.S.
LA MONDOTTE St.-Emilion 2008 Score: 92-95
Crushed berries and blackberry on the nose follow through to a full body, with a lovely berry and
cherry character on the palate. Rich and long, with fresh acidity. Shows impressive concentration
from the old vines of Merlot. Tiny production this year.—J.S.
CHÂTEAU PAVIE St.-Emilion 2008 Score: 92-95
This is very Porty, with lots of fruit and richness. Big and powerful. A blockbuster style. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LARCIS-DUCASSE St.-Emilion 2008 Score: 90-93
Intense black licorice and black fruits, almost black currant. Very aromatic. Full-bodied yet refined,
with ultraripe and fine tannins and sweet, pretty fruit. Long. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PAVIE-MACQUIN St.-Emilion 2008 Score: 90-93
Flowers such as violets galore on the nose. Ripe fruit too. Full-bodied, with bright fruit and citrusy
acidity. Long and racy. Really bright and wonderful. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU ANGÉLUS St.-Emilion 2008 Score: 89-92
A tobacco, berry and orange peel character. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a clean finish.
Refined and balanced. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU BELLEVUE-MONDOTTE St.-Emilion 2008 Score: 89-92
Shows aniseed, licorice and exotic fruit on the nose. Full-bodied, with lots of concentration and a
long, rich finish. Very reserved. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU BERLIQUET St.-Emilion 2008 Score: 89-92
Licorice and flowers, with black fruits on the nose. Full-bodied, with a very succulent and savory
finish of meat, berry and aniseed. Subtle. 40 percent Cabernet Franc, 60 percent Merlot. Represents
a huge improvement. Under the guidance now of winemaker —J.S.
CHÂTEAU CANON St.-Emilion 2008 Score: 89-92
Fresh and floral, with berry and raspberry aromas. Medium- to full-bodied, with a solid core of ripe
tannins and a licorice, berry and milk chocolate character. Displays a beautiful core of fruit. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU CANON-LA GAFFELIÈRE St.-Emilion 2008 Score: 89-92
Blackberry, black chocolate and licorice aromas follow through to a full body, with wonderful
length and style. The 35 percent Cabernet Franc really comes through. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU MONBOUSQUET St.-Emilion 2008 Score: 89-92
Shows lots of rich fruit and berries, with hints of new wood and ripe tannins. Very pretty. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PAVIE-DECESSE St.-Emilion 2008 Score: 89-92
This offers a palate full of fresh crushed berries, ripe tannins and a clean, fresh finish. Refined. —
J.S.
Pomerol
CHÂTEAU LE PIN Pomerol 2008 Score: 93-96
Complex aromas of blackberries, cherries, chocolate and violets. Very Burgundian nose. Fullbodied,
with a wonderful texture and sweet fruit. So much chocolate and silky texture. Really
beautiful and mesmerizing. Superlong. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA FLEUR-PÉTRUS Pomerol 2008 Score: 92-95
Shows fresh strawberry and cherry aromas, with hints of fresh herbs. Full-bodied, with a solid core
of ripe tannins and a long, caressing finish. Very balanced and pretty. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LAFLEUR Pomerol 2008 Score: 92-95
A solid wine, with subtle layers to a dense structure of silky tannins, plum, blackberry and mineral
fruit. Long, caressing finish. Very compact. Very precise. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PÉTRUS Pomerol 2008 Score: 91-94
There's lots of rose in this wine, with hints of dark chocolate and berries. Full and powerful, with
chewy tannins and a long finish. A big, juicy wine. Very impressive for the vintage. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA CONSEILLANTE Pomerol 2008 Score: 90-93
Blackberries and other black fruits on the nose. Full and compacted, with lots of ripe and silky
tannins. Long and structured. Very pretty wine. 86 percent Merlot, 14 percent Cabernet Franc. —
J.S.
CHÂTEAU L'EVANGILE Pomerol 2008 Score: 90-93
Exotic aromas of blackberries and roses. Orange peel and perfumes. Milk chocolate as well. Fullbodied,
with a lovely texture of round tannins and a long, long finish. A beauty. Easily outstanding.
88 percent Merlot, 12 percent Cabernet Franc. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU TROTANOY Pomerol 2008 Score: 90-93
Offers dark chocolate and fresh berry character, with a hint of plum tart. Full-bodied, with a solid
core of fruit and tannins. Long and chewy. All there. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU CERTAN DE MAY Pomerol 2008 Score: 89-92
Almost exotic on the nose, with apricot, orange and blackberry. Medium- to full-bodied, with
chewy tannins and a medium finish. Firm and well-made. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA POINTE Pomerol 2008 Score: 89-92
Lots of bright berry and flowers on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a
clean, fresh and fruity finish. Long finish. A large property on the way up. The first vintage that
Hubert de Boüard de Laforest of Angélus has been consultin —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PROVIDENCE Pomerol 2008 Score: 89-92
Ripe and fresh, with strawberry pie and flowers on the nose. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a
long finish. Very chewy and structured for the vintage. —J.S.
VIEUX-CHÂTEAU-CERTAN Pomerol 2008 Score: 89-92
The texture is classic, with plum, fresh mushroom and berry aromas and flavors. Full and round,
with lovely length. There is plenty of acidity, but it's balanced and pretty. Very long and fresh. 70
percent Merlot, 20 percent Cabernet Franc, 10 percent Cab —J.S.
Margaux
CHÂTEAU MALESCOT-ST.-EXUPÉRY Margaux 2008 Score: 90-93
Delivers gorgeous aromas of blackberry, raspberry and blueberry. Full-bodied, with superfine
tannins and a beautiful core of pure, sweet fruit. So refined and pretty. A cold pre-fermentation
maceration yields lots of bright fruit and fine tannins. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU MARGAUX Margaux 2008 Score: 90-93
Currant, blackberry and mineral aromas lead to a solid core of fruit, with fine tannins and a long,
clean finish. Refined and very, very pretty. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU RAUZAN-SÉGLA Margaux 2008 Score: 90-93
Offers flowers, currant, berries and sandalwood on the nose. Full-bodied, with firm tannins and lots
of fruit and freshness. Firm and racy. There's a little more Cabernet this year and no Petit Verdot. —
J.S.
CHÂTEAU PALMER Margaux 2008 Score: 89-92
Shows blackberry and black cherry, with hints of currant. Full-bodied, with firm tannins and a solid
core. Long and fruity. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PALMER Margaux Alter Ego 2008 Score: 87-90
Blackberry and cherry on the nose, with hints of smoke. Medium-bodied, with firm tannins and a
silky finish. Slightly hollow midpalate. —J.S.
PAVILLON ROUGE DU CHÂTEAU MARGAUX Margaux 2008 Score: 87-90
Currant and berries on the nose, with hints of vanilla and coffee. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins
and lovely fruit. Refined and pretty, but short. —J.S.
Pauillac
CHÂTEAU LAFITE ROTHSCHILD Pauillac 2008 Score: 91-94
This has a very intriguing nose. Already shows complex aromas of currant and crushed berries, with
hints of dried flowers. Full-bodied and very chewy, with intense tannins, but polished and velvety.
Long and pretty. The finish stays with you a long time. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LATOUR Pauillac 2008 Score: 91-94
Offers currant and blackberry aromas, with hints of flowers. Starts as a slow attack on the palate,
then builds with superpolished tannins and pretty fruit, offering berries and mineral. Long and
caressing. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU MOUTON-ROTHSCHILD Pauillac 2008 Score: 91-94
Shows violet and crushed berries, with lots of other floral and fruit character. Full-bodied, with
supersilky tannins and a long finish. Very, very pretty. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PONTET-CANET Pauillac 2008 Score: 90-93
Very dark and brilliant in color, showing wonderful pure fruit, with crushed blackberry, currant and
fresh-cut flowers. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long, crisp, fruity finish. This offers
impressive finesse and length. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PICHON-LONGUEVILLE-LALANDE Pauillac 2008 Score: 89-92
Currant, mint and prune, with hints of wet earth. Full and velvety, with lots of fruit and silky, firm
tannins. Long finish. Very pretty. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU CLERC MILON Pauillac 2008 Score: 88-91
Rose and currant aromas follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a clean finish. A
more delicate style Clerc. —J.S.
LES FORTS DE LATOUR Pauillac 2008 Score: 88-91
Subtle aromas of currant and raspberry, with a minerally undertone. Medium-bodied, with fine
tannins and a medium finish. A little one-dimensional on the palate, but very good. —J.S
CARRUADES DE LAFITE ROTHSCHILD Pauillac 2008 Score: 87-90
Dark currant and berries on the nose, with hints of violet. Medium- to full-bodied, with silky
tannins and a medium finish. A little one-dimensional on the palate, but should develop well. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DUHART-MILON ROTHSCHILD Pauillac 2008 Score: 87-90
Displays lots of currant and berries on the nose, with hints of sweet tobacco. Medium- to fullbodied,
with tar and berry character, soft, round tannins and a medium finish. —J.S.
RÉSERVE DE LA COMTESSE Pauillac 2008 Score: 87-90
Mineral, mint, berry and chocolate aromas and flavors. Full and soft, with velvety tannins and
plenty of ripe fruit. Very pretty already. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU D'ARMAILHAC Pauillac 2008 Score: 86-89
Blackberry and hints of cedar and dried flowers on the nose lead to a medium body, with fine
tannins, fresh acidity and a medium finish. Attractive and friendly. —J.S.
PAUILLAC DE CHÂTEAU LATOUR Pauillac 2008 Score: 86-89
Displays currant and berry notes, with mineral and flowers. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a
clean finish. —J.S.
LE PETIT MOUTON DE MOUTON-ROTHSCHILD Pauillac 2008 Score: 86-89
Displays pretty rose and berry aromas and flavors in a medium-bodied package, with silky tannins
and a fresh finish. —J.S.
Pessac-Léognan
CHÂTEAU HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan 2008 Score: 93-96
A very complex wine, with black licorice, sweet tobacco, blackberry and earth. Full-bodied and
long, with big, juicy tannins and lots of bright fruit, mushroom, earth and decadent fruit flavors. The
most powerful wine of the vintage. Only 35 percent of the total production (normally this is 50
percent or 55 percent). Shows the selection. —J.S
CHÂTEAU LA MISSION-HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan 2008 Score: 91-94
Bright and perfumed, with mineral, hot stone, fresh currant and blackberry on the nose. Full-bodied,
with firm, silky tannins and a long, caressing finish. Layered, chewy and structured. Solid for the
vintage. —J.S.
LA CHAPELLE DE LA MISSION-HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan 2008 Score: 88-91
Offers currant and plum on the nose, with hints of young sweet tobacco. Medium- to full-bodied,
with a solid core of fruit and silky tannins. Medium finish. —J.S.
LE CLARENCE DE HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan 2008 Score: 88-91
Wonderful sweet tobacco and berry aromas follow through to a full body, with big, juicy tannins
and a chewy finish. A little tough, but shows concentration for a second wine. —J.S.
CLOS MARSALETTE Pessac-Léognan 2008 Score: 87-90
Grapey and minerally on the nose. Medium-bodied, with refined tannins and a pretty finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DE FIEUZAL Pessac-Léognan 2008 Score: 87-90
Minerals, violets and other flowers. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and very clean fruit.
Minerally and fresh on the finish. —J.S.
DOMAINE DE LA PASSION HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan 2008 Score: 87-90
Crushed berries, plums and warm stones on the nose. Medium-bodied, with velvety tannins and a
fresh, clean finish. 60 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 40 percent Cabernet Franc. From about 3.2
acres; a small parcel that used to be part of La Mission-Haut-Brion —J.S.
St.-Estèphe
CHÂTEAU CALON-SÉGUR St.-Estèphe 2008 Score: 88-91
Very pretty spicy aromas, with currant and blackberry. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a
delicate velvety texture. Balanced and easy, with a medium finish. 80 percent Cabernet Sauvignon,
18 percent Merlot and 2 percent Petit Verdot. This is much more —J.S.
CHÂTEAU MONTROSE St.-Estèphe 2008 Score: 88-91
Shows blackberry and black licorice, with hints of mint. Full-bodied and fruity, with very fine
tannins, good acidity and a nice intensity of mineral and spices. —J.S.
LES PAGODES DE COS St.-Estèphe 2008 Score: 87-90
Blackberry aromas, with spices and toasty oak. Medium-bodied, with bright fruit and spicy
undertones. A little short, but very pretty. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DE PEZ St.-Estèphe 2008 Score: 86-89
Tar and spice with currants on the nose. Full and silky, with good fruit and firm tannins. Citrus fruit
on the finish. Tight. —J.S.
St.-Julien
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE LAS CASES St.-Julien 2008 Score: 91-94
Wonderful nose of roses, violets, raspberries and black licorice. Full-bodied, with a solid core of
ripe fruit and lots of beautiful wood. Excellent. —J.S
CHÂTEAU DUCRU-BEAUCAILLOU St.-Julien 2008 Score: 90-93
Fabulous nose of crushed blackberries, minerals and raspberries, with hints of licorice. Full, with
very fine tannins and a racy finish. I love the precision of the tannins and the long finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE BARTON St.-Julien 2008 Score: 90-93
Roses, blackberries, currants and wet earth. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and very pretty fruit.
Long and juicy. A delicious wine, very balanced. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LANGOA BARTON St.-Julien 2008 Score: 89-92
Bright blackberry and currant aromas, with flowers. Cool and fresh on the nose. Full-bodied, with
fine tannins and juicy fruit. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU BRANAIRE-DUCRU St.-Julien 2008 Score: 88-91
Currants and blackberries, with hints of black licorice. Medium- to full-bodied, with firm tannins
and lots of pretty fruit. Love the nose. Tight and structured, but refined. —J.S.
CLOS DU MARQUIS St.-Julien 2008 Score: 88-91
A layered and minerally wine, with currants and berries. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins
and a fruity finish. Lacks a little in the midpalate. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU GRUAUD-LAROSE St.-Julien 2008 Score: 88-91
Plummy and perfumed, with sweet spices and currants. Lovely subtle nose. Full- to mediumbodied,
with fine tannins and lovely balance. Ripe and pretty fruit. Could get even better. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU ST.-PIERRE St.-Julien 2008 Score: 88-91
Sweet blackberry and currant on the nose. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins. Plenty of good fruit,
with roses and berries. Clean and crisp. —J.S.
CROIX DE BEAUCAILLOU St.-Julien 2008 Score: 87-90
Bright raspberry and blackberry aromas, with hints of mineral. Medium- to full-bodied, with layers
of firm, slightly angular tannins and a mineral, berry aftertaste. Second wine of Ducru. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU GLORIA St.-Julien 2008 Score: 87-90
Grapey and fruity, with blackberry and licorice. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a fresh
finish. A little more fruit concentration would push it up. —J.S.
Haut-Médoc
CHÂTEAU CANTEMERLE Haut-Médoc 2008 Score: 87-90
Currant bush and berries on the nose. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins, bright acidity and a clean,
fruity finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU MALESCASSE Haut-Médoc 2008 Score: 87-90
There's excellent fruit and spice on the nose and palate, with a medium body, fine tannins and a
fresh finish. Very good for the vintage. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU SOCIANDO-MALLET Haut-Médoc 2008 Score: 87-90
Grapey, with blueberry aromas and flavors. Medium- to full-bodied, with soft tannins and a clean
finish. —J.S.
Dry Whites
CHÂTEAU SMITH-HAUT-LAFITTE Pessac-Léognan White 2008 Score: 92-95
Beautiful apple pie, lemon and apricot aromas. Full-bodied, with complex apple tarte Tatin and
lemon peel flavors. There's bright acidity, but this is well-integrated. Solid. The best dry white of
the vintage. —J.S.
DOMAINE DE CHEVALIER Pessac-Léognan White 2008 Score: 91-94
Very appley and melony, with hints of lemon and honey. Full-bodied, with very crisp, bright acidity
and notes of green apple. Superlively and minerally. Tight and racy. Powerful. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DE FIEUZAL Pessac-Léognan White 2008 Score: 90-93
Complex aromas of lemon, lime, celery and mineral. Full-bodied, with exotic fruit and racy acidity.
Lively and very, very beautiful. Fieuzal is clearly back with this white. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan White 2008 Score: 90-93
Coconut and cream, with lemon curd and subtle pineapple. Full-bodied, with layers of fruit and
bright acidity. Superlively and crisp, with notes of lemon. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU PAPE CLÉMENT Pessac-Léognan White 2008 Score: 90-93
Dense and rich, with spice, honey and apple pie character. There's lovely richness and freshness for
the vintage. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LAVILLE HAUT BRION Pessac-Léognan White 2008 Score: 89-92
This fresh, clean wine sneaks up on you, offering mineral, lemon and lime peel on the nose and
palate, with vanilla and cream character. Lively, with bright acidity. —J.S.
AILE D'ARGENT Bordeaux White 2008 Score: 88-91
Offers sliced grapefruit and lemon, with hints of melon. Minerally and medium-bodied, with fresh
lemon, bright acidity and a long finish. Very pretty and lively. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LATOUR MARTILLAC Pessac-Léognan White 2008 Score: 88-91
This offers a good core of fruit, with melon and lemon character. Full-bodied, with a balance of
bright acidity and good fruit. —J.S.
PAVILLON BLANC DU CHÂTEAU MARGAUX Bordeaux White 2008 Score: 88-91
Lemon, light lime peel and mineral aromas. Medium-bodied, with lovely honey, celery and grass on
the finish. More subtle and fine than the 2007. —J.S.
Sauternes & Barsac
CHÂTEAU GUIRAUD Sauternes 2008 Score: 91-94
This shows wonderful spicy botrytis, tarte Tatin and dried pineapple aromas and flavors. Fullbodied
and medium sweet, with lots of spicy and sweet character. Long and flavorful. Very fine and
beautiful. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU D'YQUEM Sauternes 2008 Score: 91-94
Lemon peel, spice and candied fruit on the nose, with hints of botrytis. Very balanced and refined,
with a full body. Long, delicate and pretty. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DE FARGUES Sauternes 2008 Score: 90-93
A very classy wine, with spice, honey and lemon peel character. Dense and powerful, with honey,
white pepper and citrus fruit. Layered and rich for the vintage. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU SUDUIRAUT Sauternes 2008 Score: 90-93
Thick and very rich for the vintage, with loads of apple, cream, honey, toffee and botrytis character.
Full and layered. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU RIEUSSEC Sauternes 2008 Score: 89-92
Rich and layered, with honey, caramel, botrytis spice and vanilla aromas and flavors. Long and very
flavorful. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LA TOUR BLANCHE Sauternes 2008 Score: 89-92
Dense and rich for the vintage, with spice and honey character and hints of botrytis. Full, sweet and
spicy on the palate. —J.S.
CLOS HAUT-PEYRAGUEY Sauternes 2008 Score: 88-91
There's lots of richness in this wine, with a spicy botrytis and honey character. Full and long. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DOISY-DAËNE Barsac 2008 Score: 88-91
Offers lemon, lime and honey aromas, with hints of botrytis spice. Full-bodied and medium sweet,
with a spice and honey aftertaste. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LAFAURIE-PEYRAGUEY Sauternes 2008 Score: 88-91
Very fruity and pretty, with apple, honey and fresh apricot aromas and flavors. Full-bodied and
medium sweet, with hints of spice and a clean finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU LAMOTHE-GUIGNARD Sauternes 2008 Score: 88-91
Very lemony and spicy on the nose and palate, with a full body, medium sweetness and a spicy
finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DE MYRAT Sauternes 2008 Score: 88-91
Dense and rich, with lemon peel and some botrytis spice flavors. Full-bodied, with medium-to-light
sweetness and a medium finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU SIGALAS-RABAUD Sauternes 2008 Score: 88-91
Thick and rich for the vintage, with bitter lemon and botrytis spice character. Full and medium
sweet, with bright acidity. Should develop nicely. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU D'ARCHE Sauternes 2008 Score: 87-90
Shows attractive pineapple pie and lemon curd character. Medium-bodied and medium sweet, with
a clean finish. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU COUTET Barsac 2008 Score: 87-90
Spicy and lively, with bright acidity and plenty of noble rot character. Medium- to full-bodied and
medium sweet, with a medium finish. Wait and see. —J.S.
CHÂTEAU DOISY-VÉDRINES Barsac 2008 Score: 87-90
Lemon and melon character, with a citrus peel and candied fruit character. Medium-bodied and
medium sweet, with a clean finish. —J.S.


Bordeaux 2008 – Jancis Robinson


St Emilion
Ch Ausone 2008 St- Émilion 18.5 Drink 2018-35
55% Cabernet Franc (picked 20 Oct), 45% Merlot (picked 17 and 18 Oct). Deliberately not picked
for over-ripeness. 27 hl/ha. 16,000 bottles Polished blackish purple. Wonderfully exotic and ripe on
the nose – very nervy and exciting, Really caresses the palate. Lovely sensuality with lots of acidity
and tension but fully ripe black fruit flavours. So clean and brilliant! So finely etched. Still very dry
on the end but not excessively so. Great punch and energy. Definitely like an electric shock.
Ch Cheval Blanc 2008 St-Émilion 18- Drink 2018-35
Exceptionally dark crimson. Very polished. Fragrant and fresh. I got a hit of pine on this wine as
well as on its new stablemate La Tour du Pin – maybe from the trees outside the tasting room here
at Cheval? Very fine and sculpted and well mannered even if without perhaps quite the spark of life
that one would ideally hope for. Very cool and fresh. Lots of very ripe tannin. Clearly lots of
Cabernet Franc. Succulent and supple. Ticks all the boxes – am I being niggly to ask for just a little
more misbehaviour? Perhaps because I have just tasted the pretty wild Pétrus. Clearly this will have
a long life and I can’t see it disappointing anyone. But whom will it actually thrill? Limpid and
unctuous.
Ch Angélus 2008 St-Émilion 17.5 Drink 2015-27
Warm, toasty nose with real juice and life to it. Relaxed winemaking. Quite a bit of force though
less vibrant than the Ch Ausone I have just tasted. But good purity and not too much alcohol. Sweet
and succulent – just a little hint of dry tannins on the end.
Ch Pavie 2008 St-Émilion 17.5+ Drink 2014-28
70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Only 65% new oak this year.
Inky with barely a rim. Dark and firm, dry but with more freshness and the tannins a little more
melted than in previous vintages. Gerard Perse described as ‘more feminine’ than in the last few
years, though I think he must like his women to have worked out! Harvested last week in Oct to 2
Nov. Lovely dark fruit. Roasted but not cooked. Dark and intense but much more. Savoury and
concentrated but not the bitterness of some previous vintages. (JH)
Ch La Fleur Morange 2008 St-Émilion 17.5+ Drink 2014-25
Intense, glowing crimson. Wonderfully smooth and gorgeous but with great undertow of freshness
and incredibly ripe tannins. There is the most extraordinary contrast between the 2007 and 2008...
Silky and really ripe, firm tannins. Glowing finish. Full of richness and life.
Ch Canon La Gaffelière 2008 St-Émilion 17.5 Drink 2016-30
Dark and dramatic-looking. Sweet, juicy fruit on the nose. Quite a fresh, aromatic attack.
Comfortable and well balanced rather than exaggerated. Quite firm tannins on the finish. Great
concentration but some fluidity too. Lovely frankness and freshness. Fresh, sinewy, good stuff!
Ch Franc-Mayne 2008 St-Émilion 17.5- Drink 2017-30
Dark crimson. Sweet purple fruit with just a hint of rawness. A heck of a lot of effort in this
vigorous wine. Lots of ripe tannin and firm delivery of dry fruit. Good energy. Extremely
concentrated though not sweet.
Ch Bellevue Mondotte 2008 St-Émilion 17+ Drink 2013-20
90% Cabernet, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc.
Rich, sweet dark damsons. Savoury, spicy. Very, very firm but not hard. Mouth-gripping at this
point but has the fruit layer to fill it out in time. (JH)
Ch Tertre Roteboeuf 2008 St-Émilion 17.5! Drink 2012-20
Merlot with 15% Cabernet Franc.
Amazingly dark. Almost outrageously sweet. Such a statement – hence the exclamation mark with
the score. This is a wine to love or loathe. François Mitjavile is surely almost teasing us with this
eccentric wine. Burnt. Almost porty nose though actually fresh enough on the palate. Exotic,
actually enough acid. So sweet it’s almost chocolate. But lively too. Graceful and tender. Liquorice,
treacle and leather. A remarkable wine.
Ch Pavie Decesse 2008 St-Émilion 17 Drink 2013-20
90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc.
Dark and inky. Black core. Rich, dark, intense and spicy. Very slightly raisined but not porty.
Powerful, dense, full-blooded Merlot. Firm grip but in balance with the fruit weight. A way to go.
(JH)
Ch Pavie Macquin 2008 St-Émilion 17 Drink 2017-30
Bright healthy crimson. Rich, juicy, succulent fruit. Really appetising. Lots of ripe fruit plus lots of
acid and ripe tannin. Truly a youthful, but promising, package. Well done! Maybe just a tad too tart?
Or maybe this will keep it going splendidly for the long life it deserves.
Ch Ausone, La Chapelle d’Ausone 2008 St- Émilion 17 Drink 2018-30
80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc.
Second wine of Ausone. Dark purple. Toasty, spicy, attention-grabbing. Very sweet start then lots of
acid. Considerable focus and energy. Very dry finish. A bit like an electric shock. Rich and sweet
start. Pretty damned good as a second wine!
Ch Cheval Blanc, Le Petit Cheval 2008 St-Émilion 17 Drink 2014-21
Second wine. Dark crimson. Rich yet dry and vigorous on the nose. Very sweet start – round and
flattering even if without massive tannins. Though they certainly lurk there under the fruit. Lots of
spice. Just lacks a little follow through though there is certainly lots of pleasure here for the medium
term.
Pomerol
Ch Pétrus 2008 Pomerol 18+ Drink 2018-40
Deep crimson. Not the freshest sample on the nose. Lots of power and wildness – really does taste
as though it springs from the earth to heal sore throats everywhere. But it’s a less civilised, less
tamed expression than the Trotanoy tasted alongside. Very complex with a dry rather than sweet
finish. Extremely complex rather than an easy charmer. Quite burly. A J P Moueix wine.
Ch Lafleur 2008 Pomerol 18+ Drink 2016-30
54% Cabernet Franc, 46% Merlot. ‘We think 2006 will lead it for quite a few years but maybe 2008
will overtake it eventually’. Quite deep. Cabernet Franc is very fine and elegant. Deep and
concentrated crimson. Much more structure and harmony and completely subtle all the way
through. Great silky depth. Sinew and long. So fine, so classical. Not super sweet, but lovely. Juicy.
Concentrated. Muscular but not gawky. Very fine and harmonious. Herbs and black fruits but very
subtle. Revitalising. Very fresh and very long. Elastic and energetic.
Le Pin 2008 Pomerol 18 Drink 2015-25
Picked 1 and 2 Oct and the following Tuesday.
Mid crimson. Rich and vegy and succulent. Very sweet and complete and lively. So polished and
juicy yet great vivacity. Great zest as well as sweetness. Great stuff , all the way through. Very
smooth and lots of sleek quality. Much the most energetic vintage of Pin I remember. Not much
higher than 13% alcohol but definitely Le Pin in terms of richness.
Ch La Fleur-Pétrus 2008 Pomerol 18 Drink 2018-32
Mid as opposed to deep crimson. Very rich, then peppery on the nose. Limpid sweetness with
powerful liquorice and real appeal. Very visceral in its appeal. Great richness. This one lets itself go
– not a stitch of corsetry in sight. Very seductive. A J P Moueix wine.
Ch Trotanoy 2008 Pomerol 18 Drink 2014-32
Deep healthy crimson. Very rich and dense. A broad panoply of aromas. Really interesting
aromatically, and wonderfully balanced and neat. Tea leaves fragrance plus great richness AND
polish. A lovely package. This suggests it may drink well throughout its life, so hedonistic is the
fruit. Long and neat. A J P Moueix wine.
Vieux Château Certan 2008 Pomerol 17.5 Drink 2015-27
70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon – all of our Cabernet Sauvignon.
‘Last time we put all our Cabernet Sauvignon in the wine was 2000’. Blended a week before.
‘Everything is very late’.
Bright crimson. Fresh, meaty, savoury nose. Much less obviously sweet than Le Pin from the same
family – though there is a certain freshness and bloodiness. Reminds me a little of Haut-Brion in its
fresh frank expression. Very firm. Very precise – no flatterer. Quite cool. Good attack. 13.2%
Ch l’Église-Clinet 2008 Pomerol 17.5 Drink 2014-27
Mid crimson. Scented and rich on the nose. Very broad and mouthfilling – quite complex. Much
more than just sweet. An interesting wine – quite different from most Pomerols. Lots of lift and
attack – not at all playing the sweetness card. Very appetising. Intriguing – even quite intellectual.
Explosive with a savoury finish. Smooth and sleek and complete. Good wine! No holes. Lots of
energy.
Ch Nénin 2008 Pomerol 17.5 Drink 2013-20
Also less than 30% new oak and from mostly Merlot but from the higher plateau. Dense. Quite
refined structure but with lovely rich supple fruit – really very impressive. As though all tightened
up with a drawstring towards the end. Very rich at the start but lots of structure. A very successful
Nénin.
Ch Providence 2008 Pomerol 17.5 Drink 2018-32
Mid crimson. A very slight note of rawness on the nose? Enormous colour and ambition and on the
palate it’s glorious – smooth as satin and with lovely balance and energy. One of the more
transparent JP Moueix wines
Ch Petit Village 2008 Pomerol 17+ Drink 2015-25
In 2004 they dug up the poor clones. In 2006 they took on Stéphane Derenoncourt and built a new
winery. So 2007 and 2008 are wines of the new era. Very deep blackish crimson. Meaty/yeast
extract. Very sweet. Rich. Lively. Not the sweetest Pomerol 2008 but very dense. Energetic and
lively. Big improvement on some past vintages. Very positive and structured but with good flesh
and concentration. Long. Cool, fresh, succulent, limpid and not forced. Very slightly rustic but lots
of personality – a success!
Ch Le Bon Pasteur 2008 Pomerol 17+ Drink 2013-20
Lovely rich, dark spicy fruit. Smells intoxicating. Dry and savoury on the palate. Dense, firm and
dry and rather reluctant on the palate. But long and determined. (JH)
Ch L’Évangile 2008 Pomerol 17 Drink 2014-25
Extremely deep crimson. Healthy look. Rich and spicy nose – much riper than some Pomerols (eg
Conseillante and Église Clinet). Very heady and seductive. Rich and round and very flattering. Even
a little tarry. Pretty chewy on the finish. Rather dry on the finish. Super opulent. Tar macadam dry
finish. Fat and fleshy. Super flattering but may prove not as long lived as some?
Ch Clinet 2008 Pomerol 17 Drink 2012-18
Bright, cedary black fruit on the nose, peppery. Lively and inviting. Dense and rich on the mid
palate with firm but sweet tannins and a fine bright zesty finish. (JH)
Clos l’Église 2008 Pomerol 17 Drink 2012-18
Fragrant red fruit and a light touch of sweet oak spice. Elegant, fine, medium bodied. Finishes fine
and very dry and lingers well. (JH)
Ch La Conseillante 2008 Pomerol 17 Drink 2015-27
90% of production. Merlot with 14% Cabernet Franc. 90% new oak but with malo in tank not
barrel. Zesty nose. Fresh, fine nose. Subtle and juicy and really rather glorious. That’s my only
criticism. Easy to like. Very sweet and engaging with good dynamism but just a hint of sawdust.
Lots of oak! Very polished – though a little bit dry on the finish.
St-Estèphe
Ch Cos d’Estournel 2008 St-Estèphe 18 Drink 2018-32
78% went into this thanks to small vats in new cellar. High IPT.
Extremely deep purplish crimson. It even feels heavy in the hand... Dense terroir expression
dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon. Then some spice and much less brutal than some earlier
vintages. Extremely vital and lively. Not as concentrated as Latour but (slightly) more energetic
than Lafite. Great balance and very fine tannins. Some old hands will object that this is a little
‘lighter’ than, say, 2005 – but I think it’s very well judged. Not a trace of unripeness of fruit or
tannin. And some real personality jumps out. Should have an unusually long drinking window. Very
,very clean. Fine and neat. Livelier than many other vintages. 13.8%
Ch Calon-Ségur 2008 St-Estèphe 17.5+ Drink 2018-32
Mme Denise Capbern-Gasqueton is 85 and still very much in charge. 80% Cabernet Sauvignon,
18% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot. Merlot was picked on 6 and 7 Octand the Cabernet on 12 to 16 Oct. A
new winemaker was brought in from 2006 aiming to work on the Cabernet Sauvignon, to extend the
ripening process – as he had done at Ch Margaux. They changed the team – the new head of vines is
ex-Ch Margaux and another important member of the team is ex-Ch Latour. Yield was 40 hl/ha,
50% went into the grand vin. 80% new barriques. Deep crimson. Very different. Spicy sweet nose –
very fluid. Quite a contrast to the austere Montrose we have just tasted! Quite rich and supple and
fireworks. Round and rather glorious though not at all tarted up. Very fresh. Firm and with great
spin though no compromises. Very classic. A very confident vintage for Calon-Ségur.
Ch Phélan Ségur 2008 St-Estèphe 17.5+ Drink 2013-25
Sweet and smooth and flattering. Perhaps not very St-Estèphe but a wine that should give enormous
pleasure. Great balance and ripeness. Attractive and alluring top notes. Tea leaves. Aromatic. Great
complete wine with no sign of under-ripeness.
Ch Les Ormes de Pez 2008 St-Estèphe 17 Drink 2014-26
Particularly dense colour. Spicy, peppery nose with very full, voluptuous fruit – correct – and very
mouthfilling. Long. Makes quite a splash. Comforting and pretty classical. Blind, I preferred it to its
grander stablemate Ch Lynch Bages.
Pauillac
Ch Latour 2008 Pauillac 18.5 Drink 2020-40
Lowest Merlot proportion ever in the grand vin. The last time there was more than 90% Cabernet
Sauvignon was 2004. ‘Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot don’t complement each other at Latour –
Merlot diminishes our Cabernet Sauvignon unless they are very, very old Merlot vines which add
texture and density and concentration. The rest dilute it. It’s also probably our taste. I just don’t like
these Merlots – I prefer to keep this precision...’
Very dark and rich-looking. Dense and purple. Graphite notes and very dense. Some seductive
perfume. Then very ripe start with lots of ripeness. Very firm and confident and pure. Fine stones,
very precise. Sucky stones. Still very cool, very neat, very fine. Masses of density stops it being
painfully dry on the finish. Very fine sleek and dense – well back on track after ’07 by Latour’! One
of the most polished Latours but very Latour. Very healthy. Health juice.
Ch Mouton Rothschild 2008 Pauillac 18.5- Drink 2018-32
Tighter and denser than the Petit Mouton with hidden depths and less obvious seduction. Very neat
and firm with some fine polishing of texture and definite minerality at its core. Dry finish. Very
fresh and neat. Finer boned than many Moutons – almost playing the Lafite card. All very introvert
but nothing flashy. I found myself swallowing this at 9.20am! Well done.
Ch Lafite 2008 Pauillac 17.5+ Drink 2015-30
Cabernet Sauvignon 83%, Merlot just 13%.
Subtle purplish crimson. Sumptuous nose – almost Mouton-like (whereas Mouton seems to be
making a more Lafite-like wine in 2008). Richer and riper than some earlier vintages of Lafite with
even a hint of sweetness. Medium tannins and a dry finish but not the ballerina-like lift that I
associate with Lafite. Not much lift or real aromatic interest – but perhaps we were too hurried
through the tasting room to appreciate its finer points? Both Julia and Steven Spurrier tasting
alongside me were more enthusiastic.
Ch Grand-Puy Ducasse 2008 Pauillac 17.5 Drink 2014-26
Unusual black pepper note. Then sweet and succulent. Lots of work on the texture here. What’s not
to like? Such an opulent yet well balanced whole. Very clean, fresh and cleansing. Vibrant. Great
balance. Big.
Ch Pichon Lalande (Comtesse) 2008 Pauillac 17.5 Drink 2015-25
Dense crimson with a slightly weak rim. Scented, aromatic. Just 29% Merlot but this seems very
fleshy and seductive. Not the firmest 2008 though there were dry tannins on the finish. A little
lighter than some – a rather different, less dense wine than some more ambitious 2008 Pauillacs –
but should give lots of pleasure. Very rich and round and flattering. There is ripeness and real charm
here too. Impressive length.
Ch Pontet-Canet 2008 Pauillac17+ Drink 2013-20
Expressive dark fruit and sweet citrus freshness. Deep and mouthfilling, deep pile tannins, finishing
fresh and satisfying. Plenty of freshness on the finish. (JH)
Ch Duhart-Milon 2008 Pauillac 17+ Drink 2013-22
Purple. Extremely deep colour – deeper than Lafite! Fine, scented, aromatic and flattering on the
nose. Lovely texture. Rather forward and fine tannined. Powdery texture. Lots of Cabernet (73%)
but very ripe Cabernet. Very fine and neat – truly baby Lafite, except that of course it tastes much
less embryonic in terms of development than its stablemate Lafite. A very successful seductive
Duhart-Milon. Great balance.
Ch Pichon-Longueville (Baron) 2008 Pauillac 17+ Drink 2018-30
Very vibrant blueish purple. Complete and neat. Low key but in the same idiom as Latour with 71%
Cabernet Sauvignon. Tight and dry and not at all flashy. Serious stuff. May well develop into
something really quite considerable.
Ch Batailley 2008 Pauillac 17 Drink 2013-23
Dense, complex crimson. Interesting, putty nose. Lots of intrigue here. Plush, broad, complex
flavours already. Very lively. Sweet though more acid than tannin in evidence.
Ch Haut-Bages Libéral 2008 Pauillac 17 Drink 2014-16
Very dark but healthy. Smells a bit like a Dão - something vaguely goaty! Sumptuous fruit and
texture – black berries – what a lot of work has gone into this super-polished wine. Well done! Lots
of interest but maybe could do with very slightly more freshness for an even higher score. Certainly
makes a statement... Big and dense.
Ch Lynch Bages 2008 Pauillac 16.5+ Drink 2016-26
Quite brutal smelling. Then rich and sweet and silky at first but followed by lots of acidity. A bit
green and awkward. Very drying finish. Needs lots of time. Not charming at the moment... though
it’s certainly solid and gets better toward the end.
Saint Julien
Ch Léoville Las Cases 2008 St-Julien 18 Drink 2018-35
Extremely deep blackish crimson. Spicy oak on the nose – very intense. Then amazingly opulent on
the nose. Round and dense and dramatic. Like a cross between mulberries and tarmacadam. The
Cabernets were naturally more than 13% apparently. Real excitement. Neat though not
extraordinarily long finish. Still very, very youthful. The finish is very dry and brooding but much
more supple than some earlier vintages.
Ch Léoville Las Cases, Clos du Marquis 2008 St-Julien 17 Drink 2016-28
Second wine. Dense purplish crimson. Heady nose and very succulent fruit sort of hangs in the
atmosphere in the most admirable way. Really pretty exciting! Lots of effort has clearly gone into
this wine; it’s not just a slop bucket. Not too hot, nor (just) too tannic. Lots of breed and family
style. Opulent. Jean-Hubert Delon describes this, like the 2007, as very Pauillac. Very fragrant.
Ch Beychevelle 2008 St-Julien 17 Drink 2014-24
Quite aromatic. Very neat. Lovely sweetness on the front and a perfume. Great balance. Fine
tannins. Fresh without being tart. Very well put together even if not the most extreme 2008.
Ch Ducru-Beaucaillou 2008 St-Julien 17 Drink 2016-30
85% Cabernet Sauvignon. 90% new oak. Seven different coopers. Only 35 out of an estate total of
100ha goes into this wine now, though it used to be much more (before La Croix existed as a
distinct entity).
Impressive density with a pale purple rim. Aromatic and dry but with a lot of rich, velvety mass in
the middle. Pretty impressive! Marginally flashy but really makes a splash. Dry finish. Very firm
with lots of dry tannin. Pretty confident and savoury.. Wait! Ambitious. Very ‘masculine’.
Ch Gruaud Larose 2008 St-Julien 17 Drink 2013-21
Mid crimson with a pale rim. Very sweet for a St-Julien. Almost right bank ripeness. Sweet start.
Not as classical as most St-Juliens. More forward and winning! Attractive drink for the medium
term. Hint of chocolate even. Medium charge of tannins. Polished silky texture. Very beguiling.
Ch Langoa Barton 2008 St-Julien 16.5+ Drink 2014-20
Dark and concentrated. Wild flowers and dark and dangerous aromas. Sweet foxglove start –
definitely floral – and then slightly hollow. Drying finish. Not quite complete, though competent
enough. Very dry finish but lots of personality.
Ch Léoville Barton 2008 St-Julien 16.5+ Drink 2014-19
Purplish with a lightish rim. Quite integrated nose. Well balanced. Some savour though no great
intensity. Very fine tannins and good balance even if not a very firm imprint of personality. Marked
tannins on the finish without a great weight of exciting fruit.
Ch Branaire Ducru 2008 St-Julien 16.5 Drink 2014-28
Quite brutal and vegetal on the nose. Great density and extreme youth. Just a hint of oak. Thick and
pretty earthbound at the moment with marked acidity.
Ch Lagrange 2008 St-Julien 16.5 Drink 2012-19
Crimson. Sweet and aromatic on the nose. Very flattering. Fine tannins and lots of flesh without
being specious. A bit forward but attractive in the short term.
Ch Lalande Borie 2008 St-Julien 16.5 Drink 2014-22
Quite dark crimson. Scented, perfumed. Some sweet notes. Very clean and well selected. Not
enormously dry or intense but unusually luscious for 2008.
Ch St-Pierre 2008 St-Julien 16.5 Drink 2015-22
Mid healthy crimson. Looks very exciting! Sweet and light on the nose. Unctuous, great texture and
very seductive but perhaps not the most typical St-Julien. Just a little awkward with the sweetness
and acidity not married - yet. A certain inkiness.
Ch Léoville Poyferré 2008 St-Julien 16- Drink 2013-19
Dark crimson. Rather raw on the nose – some underripe fruit? Sweet start then a bit rhubarby –
smashed fruit. Fades very fast.
Margaux
Ch Palmer 2008 Margaux 18 Drink 2014-26
Dark and glowing. Quite grown up and sophisticated. Draws you in on the nose – much more
compelling than most 2008s. Sweet start - 51% Merlot! – very unusually high for 2008 and for
Palmer. The opposite of Ch Margaux. Actually quite Ornellaia like, very soft and rich. Very
seductive and lively. With velvety texture. Neat and energetic. Cool, even slightly minty. Really lots
of pleasure. Even if quite unusual. The Palmer team love it – not least because it was so difficult.
Italian bite. (Not that this will be a popular tasting note in Margaux.) Quite electric. 13.4%.
Ch Margaux 2008 Margaux 17.5+ Drink 2020-35
87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot.
Bright crimson. Rather opulent on the nose – hints of tobacco – and a little more burly and savoury
than usual, perhaps because of less Merlot flesh. Dry start with the same backbone as the Pavillon
Rouge. Firm, very fine tannins. No shortage of acidity. Mainly structure at the moment. Very clean
but very youthful. Great freshness. Purity but I do feel we are tasting this too young. It should take
on a bit more flesh. Very straight backed. Very fresh. Very embryonic.
Ch Giscours 2008 Margaux 17.5 Drink 2014-27
Healthy crimson. Already quite complex, seductive aromas. Fresh start with real spring in its step –
energetic and lively and very well balanced yet with real intrigue still to be revealed. Good wine.
Neat finish. Tightly packed. Limpid – wonderful confidence!
Ch Malescot St-Exupéry 2008 Margaux 17+ Drink 2013-23
Purple crimson. Rich and meaty on the nose – quite complex. Lots of life and nerve in here – really
energetic and demanding. Great interest and complexity bubbling away beneath the surface. Long
and exciting. Quite forward – perhaps because of the sheer weight of fruit.
Ch d’Angludet 2008 Margaux 17 Drink 2014-28
Deep purplish crimson. Fragrant, scented, complete – elderberries again. Very opulent but good
freshness too and some very ripe tannins. Real zip on the finish. An admirably complete wine.
Long. Perhaps a little less classical than some but very well sculpted.
Ch d’Issan 2008 Margaux 17 Drink 2014-20
68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot.
Mild, ripe nose. Silky texture and great freshness. Attractive, complete, confident wine. Very
Margaux. Or do I mean very Cantenac?
Ch Marojallia 2008 Margaux 17 Drink 2013-22
Black like you have never seen Margaux. Intense dark cassis. The freshness and fluidity is a
welcome surprise after the expectation of unrelenting power. It is very concentrated and powerfully
extracted, with a big firmly built structure but it is still balanced in its power. (JH)
Ch Palmer, Alter Ego de Palmer 2008 Margaux 17 Drink 2012-18
Not made to age faster but to be enjoyed younger! They adapt extraction to have a tannin structure
that will not be too harsh in the first five or six years. Less pumping over, cooler temperatures, less
extraction. They choose to make it especially aromatic. Has it changed? Yes, at the beginning it was
just marketing but since then we have changed the vinification deliberately. Had to chaptalise two
cuves of Cabernet by 0.5%. Impressive crimson. Fresh and dense and lively on the nose. Polished
and just the merest hint of green. Bit of meat extract. Pretty nice and opulent and ripe. 13%
Ch Prieuré-Lichine 2008 Margaux 16.5+ Drink 2014-22
Blackish. Unusually, strong blackcurrant aromas. Blackcurrant juice in fact, with the right balance
of acid and some fairly prominent tannins. Dry end and at the moment the range of flavours is just a
little too narrow but this may well develop in bottle. Nice opulence without being sweet.
Ch Rauzan-Gassies 2008 Margaux 16.5 Drink 2013-22
Distinctive wild flowers nose. Well balanced. Quite chewy. Polished and interesting. Neat and tight.
Very dry finish. Real life here! Though, as usual, quite marked acidity. Not for those who seek
opulence.
Ch Rauzan-Ségla 2008 Margaux 16.5 Drink 2012-18
Lightly fragrant. Not especially intense but well balanced though pretty forward. Sudden finish.
Easy wine for relatively early consumption. Neat, long finish. It’s all on the end with this wine.
Great complex finish.
Pessac-Léognan Rouge
Ch Haut-Brion 2008 Pessac-Léognan Rouge 18 Drink 2018-34
41% Merlot, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc.
Much deeper colour than La Mission 2008. Really powerful dark purple colour. Minerals and
lightness of touch on the nose. The most solid red from this stable but a little muted at this stage.
Very firm, even slightly austere Cabernet tannins and pretty drying on the finish. Far from opulent.
Needs, like La Mission, to put on a bit of flesh. Medium persistence. Impressive purity of fruit – the
opposite of tarted up.
Ch La Mission Haut-Brion 2008 Pessac-Léognan Rouge 18 Drink 2015-29
43% Merlot, 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc.
Dark crimson. Lightly fragrant with a hint of tea leaves. Now this is elegant! But it’s rather different
from old La Missions. Much more polished and suave. Once this puts on weight it should come into
better balance. At the moment it’s perhaps just a little too light, but is certainly marvellously pure
and has a wonderful line along the palate.
Ch Larrivet Haut-Brion 2008 Pessac-Léognan Rouge 17.5 Drink 2015-27
Dark crimson with a pale rim. Sweet fruit plus tar on the nose. Very sweet and opulent start –
almost syrupy! Really quite remarkable because there is also enough freshness here and lots of ripe
tannins. Hugely ambitious. Takes this appellation to a new place. Not nearly as classical as La
Mission and Haut-Brion but almost a surfeit of pleasure. Long with a fan of flavours.
Dom de la Passion Haut-Brion 17.5 Drink 2013-20
The wine from the recently reclaimed enclave in the Haut-Brion vineyard vinified by Stephane
Derenoncourt. Trademark round, delicate, relatively soft texture and none of the density of Haut-
Brion but there is some tobacco leaf Pessac savour - and even a hint of warm bricks on the finish.
One to watch.
Ch Bouscaut 2008 Pessac-Léognan Rouge 17 Drink 2015-23
Brilliant purple. Something a little ‘singed’ on the nose and then a hint of leafiness on the palate.
Lots of tannin – pretty ripe tannin. Then very fluid texture with lots of juice. Pretty ambitious and
persistent.
Dom de Chevalier 2008 Pessac-Léognan Rouge 17+ Drink 2014-20
Very dark purple indeed. Attractive savour and life on the nose but a little bit green on the palate.
Round but marked by acidity and less than opulent tannins but very polished and savoury. A bit too
muscular? Fades on the finish. A little more flashy than previous vintages of Domaine de Chevalier
than I remember. But it grew in the glass.
Ch Haut-Bailly 2008 Pessac-Léognan Rouge 17 Drink 2013-22
Rather pale rim. Interesting savour. Well balanced. Very harmonious and polished with lots of ripe
fruit and the (considerable) tannins well hidden. Glossy stuff. What’s not to like? Though it’s not a
blockbuster.
Ch Smith Haut Lafitte 2008 Pessac-Léognan Rouge 16.5++ Drink 2015-28
Something a little cheesy on the nose. Sweet start but a lack of concentration. A little slack. Rather
green tannins. A bit austere. But confident and with real attack and bite. Lots there. All on the finish.
Impressive on the finish, which makes me think I may have underrated it. Absolutely no tartiness.
This seemed an especially pure Smith, quite a departure from some previous vintages, or a next step
on the road for Smith: less seductive and going for pure individuality.
Ch Pape Clément 2008 Pessac-Léognan Rouge 16.5! Drink 2014-24
Very dark purple. Unusually ripe purple berry aromas. Very sweet and luscious and not especially
bordeaux but capable of giving lots of pleasure. Fine, dry tannins. Difficult stylistic question, rating
this wine. It’s almost more right bank than Graves but so long as you know that in advance and
aren’t expecting a classic refreshing Graves, you could find it rewarding.
Ch Haut-Bergey 2008 Pessac-Léognan Rouge 16+ Drink 2015-25
Low key fruit and a hint of some strangely spicy oak. Very opulent start and extremely polished
texture, then masses of tannin. Embryonic. Just a little sour on the finish. Not really together yet.
Pessac-Léognan Blanc
Ch Haut-Brion 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 17.5+ Drink 2012-22
55% Semillon, 45% Sauvignon Blanc.
Golden tinge. For a 2008 white, this is relatively fat. Passion fruit nose. Really racy and vibrant.
Ch Haut-Bergey 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 17 Drink 2011-14
Smoky and lightly oily grapefruit nose. Intense, zesty and fine. Oak really restrained but adds
weight and texture. Fresh and tight and persistent. (JH)
Ch Carbonnieux 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 17.5 Drink 2011-15
Lightly mineral/smoky and a little reduced at this stage but with fine grapefruit aromas. Fine,
concentrated, zesty and focused but spreads well in the mouth without an ounce of fat. Tight and
minerally and long. (JH) Stinky and catty and very Sauvignon but pretty pure - for purists and for
those who want to toast the late André Perrin - JR
Dom de Chevalier 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 17.5 Drink 2011-18
Spicy and a little oily on the nose but also fresh citrus and cedar. Marked freshness with tight fresh
grapefruit flavours, perhaps just a little reductive but appropriately so at this stage in its evolution.
Lovely long tangy finish. (JH)
Ch Smith Haut Lafitte 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 17 Drink 2010-15
Very precise in terms of acidity but hugely much more flattering than most 2008s in terms of
breadth of fruit. Very complete - really rather puts the others in their place. Nice oak judgement.
Though maybe not for the very long term.
Ch Larrivet Haut-Brion 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 17 Drink 2009-14
Big, ripe and flashy. Very round and a competently different style from, for example, Domaine de
Chevalier. All extrovert and opulent and quite a lot of fun.
Ch Malartic Lagravière 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 17- Drink 2011-15
Both citrus and savoury aromas (oak and fruit). Pretty grippy around the gums. Very determined but
could do with a little more depth of fruit as well to fill out the mid palate, hence the minus. Fine and
minerally on the finish. (JH)
Ch Couhins-Lurton 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 16.5 Drink 2013-20
Smoky. Quite light and yet very well balanced and restrained with a strong green mineral note.
Quite long. Wait!
Ch de Cruzeau 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 16.5 Drink 2011-16
Very mineral and lean and rangy. Transparent but very well balanced.
Ch Ferran 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 16.5 Drink 2010-13
Smoky nose. Very tight and green and transparent with a hint of very ripe pears and lots of pizzazz.
Ch de Fieuzal 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 16.5 Drink 2011-14
Oily Sémillon nose and spice aromas. Broad flavoured but with fine acidity to balance. Tight,
mineral intensity and reasonable fruit weight on the mid palate. Dry, elegant finish. (JH)
Ch de France 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 16.5 Drink 2010-14
Spiced, honeyed citrus, pretty ripe on the nose. Tangy, dry and grainy mineral flavours. Pure, fresh
citrus in the mouth leading to a long mineral finish. Much fresher on the palate than I expected from
the nose. (JH)
Ch La Garde 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 16.5 Drink 2011-15
Smoky mineral notes and good density. Dry chalky finish. Very serious, and likely to be good value.
Ch Latour Martillac 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 16.5 Drink 2010-13
Citrus and herbal, veering towards box tree aromas. Cedary and fresh. Intense and seemingly
powerful on the palate though the power is mainly in the attack. Fades rather quickly aside from the
extreme freshness on the finish. (JH)
Ch Olivier 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 16.5 Drink 2009-13
Stinky, oily nose with much more weight and fat than most. Rich yet lively. Maybe not for the very
long term but lots of pleasure in the short term.
Ch Pape Clément 2008 Pessac-Léognan Blanc 16 Drink 2009-13
Deeper gold than most. Sweet, full, broad nose with a hint of smoke. Exotic tropical fruits - a bit too
much sweetness and bâtonnage? Flattering but very unusual for the vintage. Much richer and more
alcoholic. In fact lots of pear juice and alcohol on the finish. Sweet. Not that appetising.
GRAVES BLANC
Ch Laville Haut-Brion 2008 Graves Blanc 17.5 Drink 2013-20
79% Semillon, 21% Sauvignon Blanc.
Greenish tinge. Firm grapefruit aromas, then attractive fruit weight on the palate. Green streak. Very
cleansing! Mineral finish. Skinnier than many other years. Very brisk and bracing.
Clos Floridène 2008 Graves Blanc 17 Drink 2010-14
Denis Dubourdieu wine. Ripe melon and citrus fruit. Zesty and bright. Lovely freshness
complemented by light oak spice and a creamy, leesy fullness on the mid palate. Tight just now but
still long. (JH)
Ch Bouscaut 2008 Graves Blanc 16.5 Drink 2011-15
Intense aromas of spice and inviting apricot and orange notes but perhaps a little too broad. Broad,
rich and dense on the palate. Plenty of spicy oak but it is filled out by firm fruit. Tangy length and
freshness to finish. Makes its mark but a little too woody for me. (JH)
Ch de Chantegrive, Clos Caroline 2008 Graves Blanc 16.5 Drink 2010-15
Rich, fat, exciting. Pear juice and very smooth. Rich finish. Hint of apple skin but more weight than
most.
Ch Rahoul 2008 Graves Blanc 16.5 Drink 2010-16
Toasty oak at first, then fresh citrus follows. Dense, tangy, dry and finely spiced. Pure, minerally,
tight and long. Very fresh, highly strung. (JH)
Bordeaux Blanc
Ch Valandraud, Blanc de Valandraud No 1 2008 Bordeaux Blanc 17 Drink 2012-16
50% Semillon, 50% Sauvignon Blanc.
Strong grapefruit and directed. Grown just outside the St-Émilion appellation. Pretty ripe grapes but
not fat. Quite exciting tension with lots of minerality. Dense. Long. Quite powerful.
Ch Monbousquet 2008 Bordeaux Blanc 17 Drink 2010-12
Highly aromatic thanks to the two thirds Sauvignon but quite full in the mouth. Maybe a little heavy
but hard to taste after the Pavie. Pretty powerful. And long. Creamy and full in the mouth with a
fine citrus streak. (JH)
Ch Margaux, Pavillon Blanc de Ch Margaux 2008 Bordeaux 17 Drink 2016-24
Pale greenish gold. Lots of acidity and more minerals than usual but with passion fruit too. Very
firm and tight. Chalky finish. Bracing. Not as potent as some other recent vintages.
Ch Reynon 2008 Bordeaux Blanc 17 Drink 2010-13
With Sauvignon Blanc prominently on the label. Denis Dubourdieu's wine.
Fresh, intense grapefruit and grapefruit pith aroma plus a mineral note. Dry, intense and more
mineral on the palate. Very persistent. (JH)
Dourthe, No 1 Sauvignon Blanc 2008 Bordeaux Blanc 16.5 Drink 2010-11
Maybe a little reduced at the moment on the nose. Very tight, very crisp and fresh. A slightly grainy
texture and good length but a little one-dimensional? (JH)
Ch Mont-Pérat 2008 Bordeaux Blanc 16.5 Drink 2010-12
Tastes much richer than most Bordeaux Blanc. Intense grapefruit and smoky reductive notes but
very full and creamy and rich and long and powerful. Plenty of oak. Maybe a bit hot on the finish?
(JH)
Ch Thieuley, Cuvée Francis Courselle 2008 Bordeaux Blanc 16.5 Drink 2010-12
A little smoky and mineral but mainly ripe citrus on the nose, though there is also a grassy element.
Grainy, tight and crisp. Refreshing with moderate concentration, mouthwatering finish. (JH)
Ch Cos d'Estournel Blanc 2008 Bordeaux Blanc 16 Drink 2011-15
80% Sauvignon Blanc.
Very pale gold. Fatter than many 2008 whites with just a hint of catty stink. Lots of greenness and
even some leafiness. Tight but much more interest than the average Bordeaux Blanc. Oak seems
very low key. Tends to be expensive...
Sauternes & Barsac
Ch d'Yquem 2008 Sauternes 18 Drink 2018-36
Quiet on the nose. More spiced pear and apricot than orange. Lovely concentration. Spiced power,
depth and quite warm on the finish. Fresh in a powerful rather than a delicate way. Dense and long.
Rich and well integrated oak though there's lots of spice all the way through. A less delicate style
than many in this vintage. (JH)
Ch Climens 2008 Barsac 18 Drink 2016-36
As every year, the final blend has not been made and the tasting at the châteaux is of various barrel
samples of individual lots picked on different dates, even at different times of the day. Harvesting
took place 30 Sep to 30 Oct with just 4 tries or picking phases, with 57% of the harvest gathered in
the 4 days of the second phase (21, 22, 26, 27 Oct). The total harvest was 122 barrels, split into 13
lots, a little lower than the average of the last 10 years. Yield was 11 ha/ha.
The first tri was generally richer and more fruity than the others. My favourite lot was perhaps less
concentrated than recent vintages but with a delicate floral character and lovely brightness and
elegance. The slightly lower concentration seemed to allow an attractive liveliness. All six lots
tasted were quite distinct, some more marked by oak than others, so it's hard to draw a conclusion
on how the final blend will taste but this selection of possible components suggests a fresh, bright
lightly floral wine, still with excellent intensity and lovely apricot botrytis depth but a little less rich
than the 2007 and none the worse for that. (JH)
Ch Doisy-Daëne 2008 Sauternes 17.5 Drink 2014-30
Pale gold. Peachy/apricot nose, quite delicate. The rich and concentrated on the palate, brisk and
racy and full of life; lovely clean fresh finish. Very attractive and one of my favourites of the
tasting. (JH)
Ch de Fargues 2008 Sauternes 17.5 Drink 2016-30
Quite deeply coloured and intense aromas of orange and spiced honey. Rich, powerful, broad and
quite spicy though still finishes fresh. Full, concentrated, rich and long with a slight and attractive
bitterness of orange pith on the finish. (JH)
Ch Suduiraut 2008 Sauternes 17.5 Drink 2016-28
Honeyed lemon aroma. Very sweet and orange flavoured. Pure rather than complex at the moment
but lots of spice on the finish and fine freshness despite the lightly oily finish. (JH)
Ch Doisy-Védrines 2008 Barsac 17 Drink 2016-28
Spicy/sour lemon nose. Very pure citrus flavours, then richer orange depth and concentration. Pure,
reasonably concentrated and fresh to the end. (JH)
Ch d'Arche 2008 Sauternes 17 Drink 2014-26
Oily lemon aromas, a hint of linseed. Then concentrated, spicy and fresh on the palate. Good depth
and freshness combined. (JH)
Ch Guiraud 2008 Sauternes 17 Drink 2016-28
Broad, intense spiced citrus. Bright and racy and pure. Well balanced and moderate length. Dense
and viscous and tangy. (JH)
Ch Haut-Peyraguey 2008 Sauternes 17- Drink 2016-28
Oily and a tad woody at first. Sweet/sour on the palate. Concentrated and well balanced with lots of
spice on the end. Full-flavoured and rich. Very sweet and thick and rich rather than elegant. (JH)
Ch de Malle 2008 Sauternes 17 Drink 2016-30
Freshly aromatic - citrus and pineapple. Concentrated and zesty with a note of spice (ginger?) on
the palate. Lovely fresh zip and length. Mouthwatering finish. (JH)
Ch Nairac 2008 Barsac 17 Drink 2016-28
Very cloudy sample - looks more like apple juice. Honey and lemon cold remedy aromas but also
fresh apple and pear. Intense orange and lemon zest on the palate. Full flavoured, crisp,
concentrated and long. (JH)
Ch Rieussec 2008 Sauternes 17 Drink 2016-28
Intense orange and apricot botrytis flavours with lots of spice on the tip of the tongue. Creamy
depth and fine fresh length. Very pure to the end. Rich with lots of pleasure. (JH)
Ch Sigalas Rabaud 2008 Sauternes 17 Drink 2016-30
Bright zesty apricot. Oily and spiced and quite viscous. Lots of barley sugar flavour and depth.
Concentrated with a mouthwateringly fresh finish, quite a bit of oak. (JH)
Ch Bastor-Lamontagne 2008 Sauternes 16.5 Drink 2014-22
More delicate on the nose, pears and grapefruit. Then grapefruit pith zest, almost sourness on the
palate but not in an unpleasant way. Much lighter than Ch de Fargues tasted immediately before this
but quite an elegant, fresh finish. (JH)
Ch Caillou 2008 Sauternes 16.5 Drink 2014-28
Citrus and lightly mineral on the nose. Then broad and spiced on the palate, good depth of fruit,
orange pith zest at the end. Moderate weight in the middle and then a long finish. (JH)
Ch Coutet 2008 Barsac 16.5 Drink 2013-23
Fat and oily, rich and full flavoured but quite elegant in the mouth, perhaps lacking a little in acidity
to balance the breadth. Soft peachy finish. (JH)
Ch Filhot 2008 Sauternes 16.5 Drink 2014-26
Bright and orangey on the nose. But then a little bitter on the mid palate but finishes fresh and zesty.
(JH)
Ch Lafaurie-Peyraguey 2008 Sauternes 16.5 Drink 2016-28
Cloudy. Bright and zesty on the nose but richer and more oily on the palate. Firm and dense. Just
fresh enough. (JH)
Ch Lamothe-Guignard 2008 Sauternes 16.5 Drink 2014-22
Not much on the nose. Just a hint of citrus, then rather bitter on the palate, like lemon zest. Fresh
finish, pure citrus fruit, moderate concentration and quite good length. (JH)
Ch de Myrat 2008 Sauternes 16.5 Drink 2016-24
Deeper gold with orange intensity on the nose. Plenty of botrytis and spice and broad in the mouth
and good freshness to balance that weight. Long. (JH)
Ch Partarrieu 2008 Sauternes 16.5 Drink 2011-18
Fragrant apricots and pineapple. Rich and viscous but still fresh and clean. More sweet than
botrytised. Nice bitter lemon pith finish, just enough acidity. (JH)
Ch Rabaud-Promis 2008 Sauternes 16.5 Drink 2014-22
Honeyed. Broad in the mouth but with moderate concentration, though there's a bright fresh apricot
length and zesty finish. (JH)
Ch de Rayne Vigneau 2008 Sauternes 16.5 Drink 2016-28
Not especially aromatic on the nose but fresh and bright citrus fruit in the mouth. Rich, viscous and
full and finishes pretty fresh still. (JH)
Ch Suau 2008 Barsac 16.5 Drink 2014-26
Peachy nose, barley-sugar flavours but also quite spicy and a fresh racy finish. Moderate
concentration but good length and balance. (JH)