Sweet, blackcurrants and cream sort of nose – really quite harmonious. Fresh too. Nicely judged and very smooth, even if not for the very long term. Score: 16.5/20 Jancis Robinson
From the smallest parcel of the Leoville estate, comes Chateau L?oville-Barton, a once mid-tier level 2nd Growth that has accelerated in quality and interest since the reinvigoration of current proprietor Anthony Barton in the mid 1980s. The rich, gravel-and-clay soils host a predominately Cabernet Sauvignon base of vines, though Merlot and Cabernet Franc also factor. New oak use is kept to around 50%, and the wines are notable for their purity yet power. 2010 is no exception, with a wine that drives with authority across the palate, while providing the baseline for a long time of pleasurable cellaring. Rightfully called one of the most exciting producers of St-Julien.
The Chateau L'Arrosee 2000 is a splendid representation of the renowned Saint-Émilion region in Bordeaux, France. This vintage, produced by the esteemed Chateau L'Arrosee, is a true testament to their expertise and passion for winemaking. Upon pouring, the wine reveals a deep, ruby red hue with glimmers of purple. On the nose, notes of ripe red fruits such as cherries and plums intertwine with hints of tobacco and cedar. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and velvety, with a perfect balance of tannins and acidity. Flavors of dark berries, cassis, and subtle spices are present, leading to a long and elegant finish. This wine is a true delight and pairs beautifully with red meats, hearty stews, and rich cheeses. Enjoy now or cellar for further aging.
The Collines De L'If 375ml 2019 is a stunning example of Bordeaux wine from the renowned Domaine de l'If in France. This vintage, produced in 2019, boasts a deep ruby red color with purple hues, giving a nod to the wine's youth and vitality. On the nose, delicate aromas of blackcurrant, plum, and cherry dance with hints of cedar, vanilla, and a touch of tobacco. The palate is rich and velvety, with ripe tannins and a well-balanced acidity. Flavors of dark berries, black cherry, and a touch of spice lead to a long, satisfying finish. This wine is perfect for those seeking a classic Bordeaux experience, and its 375ml bottle size makes it an ideal choice for a special occasion or intimate gathering.
The old school of the UK wine market have long loved the wines of Chateau Talbot, and the 2010 would have them purring. Chateau Talbot is a producer that occupies a large (102 hectares) swathe of land under vine in Medoc and makes wines that are set to a more traditional style, including rich wood scents, firm tannins, some rustic charm and a cassis-meets-violet fruit profile. This is a superb release of the wine, reminscent of classic Talbots that are sinewy when young, but still approachable, and for enthusiasts, glorious with cellar time.
Left in a sorry state by the previous owners, in 1962 the Rothschilds of Lafite took over the property and begun to reconstruct the vineyard which was planted mostly to Petit Verdot. 4 decades later and the wines of Château Duhart-Milon are now showing the flavour and concentration you expect from such a site in Pauillac.
Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste produce some of the best value wines in the Pauillac region, if not simply some of the best quality in general. Cabernet based reds are their staple and generally produce wines of a robust and masculine nature. In recent years the wines are close to rivalling the famed Pichons .