2009 is perhaps the greatest young Château Margaux we have tasted over the last 30 years. The 2009 Château Margaux is an unparalleled vintage in its tannic power and fullness (reminding us of 2005) and its softness (reminiscent of 1990). And since its alcoholic degree is barely over 13, its finish remains fresh, flavoursome and of astonishing length. When to drink it? This is a question that is difficult to answer as it already gives so much pleasure, but with such enormous potential.

Deep ruby-red color is not quite opaque. The aromas are tightly wound being dusty at first over cassis, them becoming more ceadry & perhaps chalky. The palate is tight & closed at present. There is a delicate leafy cassis fruit but the wine is dominated by plentiful, fine, smooth tannins. Acidity is good alcohol is balanced & the finish has superb length. The wine's fruit is largely closed up, but its excellent balance suggests this could open spectacularly with age.

“Among the best dry whites of Bordeaux and of Pessac Léognan, this wine combines richness, concentration and finesse. Like for the reds, the aromatic palette is both precise and full, with notes of citrus, green fruit, minerality and fine oak. On the palate, the concentration and length are exceptional.  Its potential for long ageing should be used to draw out all its quintessence.”  - Figaro Vin

Chateau Montrose is a 2nd growth in the Saint Estephe appellation of the left bank of Bordeaux. The location itself is exceptional, facing the Gironde Estuary which means the 95ha vineyard benefits from the moderating influence of this body of water during hot summers and harsh winters. This red blend is 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot and scored over 95 by many of the critics. All typical Medoc aromas and flavours of blackcurrant, licorice, pencil lead, crushed stones, warm spices and violets. Balanced and impressive, give this a decade before opening and age for the next 30+ years.

A dense, opaque wine with classic Fonseca aromas and flavours, dense blackberry and blackcurrant, spice, coffee, cocoa, and prune. Thick, velvety tannins give the wine a voluptuous density on the palate.

This wine will develop for decades in the bottle. 98 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Sappy and sensational in flavour and fruit, moderate tannins around the edges on first taste, velvety texture and a long finish.

The combination of great fruit and fine structure makes this a great Fonseca.

Blend: 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot
Drinking Window: 2029-2050

98 Points - James Suckling
"Complex, refined and truly mineral, this has natural vibrancy and freshness as well as excellent depth. Light midpalate concentration but also no sweetness at all. Medium- to full-bodied with chalky, stony tannins and a long, very tense finish. A vintage of delicacy and finesse. If you seek less alcohol and less power, this will be a great year to buy."

Blend: Merlot (85%), Cabernet Franc (15%)
Drinking Window: 2033-2060

96-98 Points – James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com
“A captivating L’IF with remarkable purity, finesse and precision. Aromas of black cherries, ripe plums and wild berries are layered with violets, crushed limestone, graphite and delicate exotic spices. The palate is silky and beautifully sculpted, revealing a concentrated core of dark fruit supported by ultra-fine tannins and vibrant freshness. Elegant yet deeply expressive, it balances richness with a pronounced mineral tension that carries effortlessly through the wine. The finish is exceptionally long, refined and persistent, highlighting the distinctive limestone terroir and the estate’s outstanding aging potential.”

Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon (77%), Merlot (22%), Cabernet Franc (1%)
Drinking Window: 2033-2060

96-98 Points – James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com
“A brilliantly refined Château Brane-Cantenac that showcases the elegance and aromatic complexity of Margaux. Fragrant aromas of cassis, wild berries, violets and crushed stones are intertwined with notes of graphite, cedar and delicate exotic spices. The palate is silky yet remarkably structured, revealing exceptional purity of fruit supported by ultra-fine tannins and vibrant freshness. Beautifully balanced, it combines depth, precision and mineral tension with effortless grace. The finish is exceptionally long, seamless and refined, confirming its place among the finest wines of the vintage with outstanding aging potential.”

Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon (81%), Merlot (17%), Cabernet Franc (2%)
Drinking Window: 2033-2060

96-98 Points – James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com
“A superb Gruaud-Larose that combines the depth and structure of Saint-Julien with remarkable elegance. The nose is intensely aromatic, revealing layers of cassis, blackberries and dark cherries intertwined with violets, graphite, cedar and subtle notes of cigar box and spice. Full-bodied yet impeccably balanced, the palate delivers concentrated dark fruit framed by silky, fine-grained tannins and vibrant freshness. A pronounced mineral backbone lends precision and energy, carrying the wine effortlessly toward a long, refined and persistent finish. A classic Saint-Julien with outstanding aging potential.”

Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon (58%), Merlot (40%), Cabernet Franc (2%)
Drinking Window: 2033-2060

97-98 Points – James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com
“A remarkably elegant Haut-Bailly with exceptional refinement and balance. Aromas of blackcurrants, dark cherries, violets and graphite emerge with striking purity, accompanied by subtle hints of cedar, tobacco leaf and spices. The palate is seamless and beautifully textured, combining concentrated dark fruit with fine-grained tannins and vibrant freshness. Sophisticated and precise, it delivers layers of complexity without sacrificing grace or energy. The finish is long, harmonious and mineral-driven, highlighting the estate’s hallmark finesse and outstanding aging potential.”

Blend: Cabernet Franc (45%), Merlot (40%), Cabernet Sauvignon (15%)
Drinking Window: 2030 - 2050

95 Points - Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux
“High pumice stone grip, certainly very much on the limestone character, attractive and with plenty of lift and grip, and an underlying and highly attractive drama from grilled sandalwood and incense oak notes. A more subdued Canon la Gaffelière at this early stage, will widen and deepen over ageing. Yield 35 hl/ha. 30% new oak for ageing."

Blend: Merlot (80%), Cabernet Sauvignon (20%)
Drinking Window: 2032-2055

96-98 Points – James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com
“A rich and captivating Clinet with impressive depth and polish. Aromas of black plums, ripe blackberries, violets and mocha rise from the glass, accompanied by subtle notes of truffle and spice. The palate is concentrated and velvety, showcasing layers of dark fruit, chocolate and mineral nuances framed by finely integrated tannins. Fresh acidity brings balance and precision, while the finish is long, seamless and remarkably elegant. A beautifully crafted Pomerol that combines power, texture and finesse with excellent aging potential.”

Blend: Merlot (90%), Cabernet Franc (10%)
Drinking Window: 2033-2060

96-98 Points – James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com
“A captivating Château Le Gay with remarkable richness and refinement. Aromas of blackberries, ripe black cherries and plums are layered with violets, truffle, graphite and subtle notes of cocoa and exotic spices. Full-bodied and beautifully textured, the palate reveals a concentrated core of pure dark fruit supported by silky, polished tannins and vibrant freshness. Powerful yet impeccably balanced, it combines the opulence of Pomerol with exceptional precision and mineral depth. The finish is long, seamless and elegantly persistent, highlighting the estate’s distinctive character and outstanding aging potential.”

Blend: 67% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon
Drinking Window: 2028 - 2050

98 Points - Antonio Galloni, Vinous
The 2021 Vieux Château Certan is a spectacular tour de force from Alexander and Guillaume Thienpont. What a wine. Vibrant and magnificent in its precision, the 2021 races across the palate, revealing seemingly endless layers of nuance over time. Dark blue/purplish fruit, cinnamon, new leather, graphite, lavender and crushed rocks all build effortlessly. The Cabernets are dialed up in 2021 and that comes through in the wine's flavor profile and overall feel. The purity of the flavors is just mind-bending. Harvest took place between September 25 and October 4. The blend is 67% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon. Readers who can find the 2021 should not hesitate, as it is truly magical. Score

Blend: Merlot 95%, Cabernet Franc: 5%
Drinking Window for Magnum Size: 2013 – 2050

98 Points - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
"This 1998 vintage of Petrus is dense and powerful, with aromas of black currant, plum, and a touch of graphite. It is structured and muscular, showcasing a firm tannic backbone that promises long ageing potential. The palate features concentrated dark fruit, a touch of earthiness, and hints of licorice and espresso. The wine is dense and full-bodied, with a long finish that echoes the layered fruit and mineral complexity. A slightly more reserved but very promising vintage.”

Blend: Merlot 95%, Cabernet Franc: 5%
Drinking Window: 2008 – 2040

98 Points - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
"This 1998 vintage of Petrus is dense and powerful, with aromas of black currant, plum, and a touch of graphite. It is structured and muscular, showcasing a firm tannic backbone that promises long ageing potential. The palate features concentrated dark fruit, a touch of earthiness, and hints of licorice and espresso. The wine is dense and full-bodied, with a long finish that echoes the layered fruit and mineral complexity. A slightly more reserved but very promising vintage.”

Blend: Merlot 95%, Cabernet Franc: 5%
Drinking Window: 2006 – 2035

98 Points - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
"The 1994 Petrus is one of the most expressive and opulent wines of the vintage. It opens with a seductive nose of blackberries, cassis, graphite, and hints of smoky incense. On the palate, it is powerful yet refined, boasting tremendous depth and concentration. The tannins are firm but polished, supporting a complex core of dark fruit and mineral notes. The finish is long and nuanced, revealing layers of spice, cedar, and dark chocolate. A classic Petrus that will continue to evolve beautifully.”

Blend: Merlot: 95%, Cabernet Franc: 5%
Drinking Window for Magnum Size: 2001 – 2047

98 Points - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
"The 1986 Petrus is a masterpiece of balance and elegance. It offers an intense bouquet of black cherries, plums, violets, and subtle hints of truffle and earth. The palate is full-bodied, rich, and lush, with beautifully integrated tannins and a remarkable length that lingers in the finish. The wine has aged gracefully, showing layers of complexity with hints of leather, tobacco, and forest floor emerging. A sublime expression of Merlot’s potential at its peak.”

Blend: 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot
Drinking Window: 2030 - 2065

98 Points - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
"Aromas of sweet dark berries and cherries mingled with notions of cigar wrapper, pencil shavings and licorice introduce the 2022 Pichon‑Longueville Baron, a full‑bodied, layered and multidimensional wine that’s deep, dense and lively, with terrific concentration, sweet tannins and a long, penetrating finish. Integrated and serious, this hints at the lavishness inherent to the vintage, while remaining classic and controlled.”

Blend: 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot
Drinking Window for Magnum Size: 2025–2060

95 Points - Wine Enthusiast
"Rich, generous and structured—black currant essence and elegant tannin combine superbly for long-term aging.”

Blend: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc
Drinking Window: 2027-2050

98 Points - Vinous
"The 2024 La Conseillante is shaping up to be one of the wines of the vintage. Vertical and explosive, with spectacular depth, the 2024 is an eye-opening wine, with regard to both the potential of the property and the vintage. In 2024, La Conseillante separates itself from the pack by a wide margin. It may ultimately not merit the very highest of scores, but it will almost certainly come close. Dark blue fruit, violet, spice, new leather, menthol and licorice stain the palate all the way through the creamy finish. Conseillante is a very serious wine. Technical Director Marielle Cazaux made all the right choices in a very challenging year in which yields were reduced by 50% in the field and then through strict selection in the cellar. Tasted two times."

Blend: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc
Drinking Window: 2027-2050

98 Points - Vinous
"The 2024 La Conseillante is shaping up to be one of the wines of the vintage. Vertical and explosive, with spectacular depth, the 2024 is an eye-opening wine, with regard to both the potential of the property and the vintage. In 2024, La Conseillante separates itself from the pack by a wide margin. It may ultimately not merit the very highest of scores, but it will almost certainly come close. Dark blue fruit, violet, spice, new leather, menthol and licorice stain the palate all the way through the creamy finish. Conseillante is a very serious wine. Technical Director Marielle Cazaux made all the right choices in a very challenging year in which yields were reduced by 50% in the field and then through strict selection in the cellar. Tasted two times."

Blend: 59% Semillon, 41% Sauvignon Blanc
Drinking Window: 2026-2047

98 Points - Vinous
"The 2024 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc, which has more Sémillon in the blend, was reticent on the nose and demanded more coaxing than usual, (reluctantly) offering scents of red apple, lime flower and crushed stone. The palate is more expressive with impressive weight and density. The 2024 is fresh and vibrant with palpable tension, revealing a tingle of lemongrass and stem ginger towards its sustained finish. When I returned to my glass after 20 minutes, the aromatics had burst open and shown their true colours, with hints of chai and popcorn and wonderful mineralité. This might turn out to be one of the best white La Missions in recent years."

Blend: 59% Semillon, 41% Sauvignon Blanc
Drinking Window: 2026-2047

98 Points - Vinous
"The 2024 La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc, which has more Sémillon in the blend, was reticent on the nose and demanded more coaxing than usual, (reluctantly) offering scents of red apple, lime flower and crushed stone. The palate is more expressive with impressive weight and density. The 2024 is fresh and vibrant with palpable tension, revealing a tingle of lemongrass and stem ginger towards its sustained finish. When I returned to my glass after 20 minutes, the aromatics had burst open and shown their true colours, with hints of chai and popcorn and wonderful mineralité. This might turn out to be one of the best white La Missions in recent years."

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Review - Rated 96:

The 2020 Masseto now sees new DNA with a touch of Cabernet Franc added to this celebrated Merlot-based icon wine. This is a vintage of enormous richness and density, and everything about the wine is taken up a notch or two (including the bottle glass weight and the 15% alcohol content). But Axel Heinz and his team are well prepared for the hot vintages like 2020, and changes to farming and canopy management ensure even ripening. This wine is always hard to analyze in its youth. It needs many more years to soften and flesh out. Give it time.

Opaque black/red colour and purple rim. Aromas seamlessly blend raspberry, cassis, cocoa-butter, vanilla & oak. Elegant silky, supple tannins. Fresh acidity lifts the fruit & alcohol is balanced. Finishes with cassis & raspberry flavours

98+/100 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Deep garnet-purple in colour, the Cabernet Sauvignon Estate needs a lot of swirling and coaxing to unlock notions of blackcurrant pastilles, warm black plums and mulberries, plus hints of black olives, tilled soil, mossy tree bark and violets with emerging baker's chocolate and star anise hints. Full-bodied, rich, concentrated and with impeccable poise, it has beautifully ripe, grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing epically long and earthy.

98/100 James Suckling

Gorgeous blackberry and currant aromas with hints of herbs. Wonderfully varietal character. Full-bodied with tannins that frame the wine so nicely and create a long, lightly chewy finish. Fantastic wine.