BORDEAUX EN PRIMEUR
After having deserted, to my great regret, due to work commitments, the En Primeur vintage 2017, this year, fortunately, I went to Bordeaux, stopping in Agen and then the next morning, Saturday, going to lunch to Arcachon to eat my beloved oysters. On Sunday I went to Saint Emilion to taste some of the wines produced with the advice of the oenologist Stephane Deranancourt.
From the first tastings of these wines, coming from different parts of Bordeaux, I began to realize how the climatic trend could have been. I have to say that in the following days while tasting the wines, I had the confirmation of my first impressions. Taking into consideration the climate trend, examining how the months before the harvest were.
The 2018 vintage was the hottest of the early twentieth century.
In February, frosts occurred in some areas. During the rest of the year the temperatures were very hot, in relation to the seasonal temperature. In the first half of the year, abundant rainfall occurred from January to early July. In the remaining months the rains were sporadic and weak. These precipitations recalled the 2009 vintage. In general the white wines were harvested at the end of August, while the red wines were harvested from mid-September for the Merlot until mid-October for the Cabernets.
The harvest was not easy and those who did not pay attention, especially for the merlot, harvested overripe grapes.
In this respect, this harvest reminds me, for the right bank, of 2015.
In tasting the wines the reminded me of the wines of the last two 2015 and 2016 vintages I tasted during the respective “En Primeur”.
I remember the 2015 vintage in general in Pomerol and Saint-Emilion, as an important vintage but with a lot of Merlot maturation. I remember the Cheval Blanc really important and complete, proof of this is that the Petit Cheval was not produced. The Petrus and the Vieux Château Certan were also great. Usually in Pomerol and in Saint Emilion I remember having savoured many “Mon Cheri” wines, namely sweet chocolate, milk chocolate and candied cherry. I love the Mon Cheri chocolate but not the Mon Cheri-flavored wines. When the year after I tasted the 2016 vintage wines, I was left speechless for the pleasantness of feeling wines not so much with floral aromas, virtues of the few, but fresh fruit, squeezed into almost all the wines, namely the plum, the cassis, the cherry, the blackberry and other fruity scents.
Just a few Château produced better wines in 2015, and they are really only few, rather than in 2016, but the “Mon Chery” effect, in general, I did not feel in the 2016 vintage. This year, in general, was superior for me to 2015. In 2016 I gave more important evaluations, apart from the Cheval Blanc, compared to 2015. I made this premise to introduce the 2018 that surely was not an easy year, with fewer yields and a lot of work in the vineyard. Definitely not an easy year for the Sauternes due to the inadequate freshness (se si riferisce alla temperature forse meglio coolness). I have found, in general, wines that are not very structured, balanced to taste, with acidity superior to the alcohol, in red wines pleasant fruit with perfect maturity, but in general, not in Pomerol, in Saint Emilion and in Saint Estephe. In red wines I have felt tannins, important, exuberant, thick but not completely wide and with a slightly dry finish on the upper gum. White wines, apart from several exceptions, have turned out to be less important than red wines.
These considerations of mine have a general value because I tasted wines, such as in Saint Emilion at the Chateau Ausone a great Chapelle D’Ausone (93-95 / 100), in Pauillac I admired a great Petit Mouton (94-96 / 100) the best ever tasted by me. At Château Lafite, I felt an almost perfect first wine (98-100 / 100). In Margaux I tasted the Château Palmer, great, not a structured but very elegant wine (98-100 / 100), as well as the Château Margaux (97-99 / 100). For the name Pessac – Leognan I really enjoyed the Haut-Bailly, a wine of great elegance (97-99 / 100). In Saint Estéphe I enjoyed both white and red wines from the Château Cos d’Estournel.
In Pomerol I liked the Petrus (96-98 / 100), the Vieux Château Certan (97-99 / 100) which did not have the overripe cherry but with the right maturity and structure, with elegant tannins. I repeat the 2018 vintage has given, in general, wines not of structure but of elegance.
For Sauternes wines the vintage was not important because of the climatic conditions that did not give wines rich in acidity and with the finale, generally, of the right amarine (bitter?) note of bitter orange jam and / or of Amaretto di Saronno, suitable to contrast, to taste, honeyed sweetness.
Before moving on to wine tasting notes, it is important that, for the tannins, I make some clarifications so that it can be understood. I feel the tannin of the wine on the upper gum. The total tannin width is 6/6, that is the whole width of the upper gum. Obviously, if the tannin is less wide, it could be for example 5/6 and so on. The tannin width is important when the quality of the tannin is good or high level. If the tannin is wider, the wine is more worthy of attention, but the tannin, as I have pointed out, must in any case be of good quality.
Let us now go on to describe the wines tasted.
CHÂTEAU D’AGASSAC 2018 Haut Medoc – red
(Grapes: 63% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11% Cabernet Franc)
Purple red – black robe
Aromas of plum, light cherry, coscia pear, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg with hints of herbaceous and blond tobacco from Virginia.
The taste is a little bit sour. The body is medium and the alcohol is not perceived thanks to the freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, fairly large (5 / 6–) initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little. The persistence is long, with a squeezed plum finish. The wine shrinks in the mouth.
(89-91 / 100)
ANGELIQUE DE MONBOUSQUET 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Red purple – black
Olfactory mix of mustard aromas, mortadella pistachio, black maraschino cherry, mint, eucalyptus, processed leather, black pepper, nutmeg and boisè.
A taste of chocolate explodes on the palate. The body is medium and the balance is slightly fluctuating between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are slightly wide (4/6 ++) initially velvety to then dry and make the upper gum burn a little.
Its persistence is long with a slightly bitter finish (for wood?)
(87-89 / 100)
CHÂTEAU ANGELUS 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 65% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple-red coat – black
Open nose with aromas of black marasca cherry, plum, black pepper, nutmeg, sweet from the outside of the sugared almond, vanilla and bosié.
The palate is embraced by fruity sensations of cassis and black marasca cherries.
The body is medium. Wine balanced between alcohol and freshness while tannins are large (6 / 6–), initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little, due to the tannins of the wood.
Long is its persistence with cassis and woody finish.
(92-94 / 100)
N. 3 D’ANGELUS 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Intense purple red – black
Olfactory luggage made of medium dry grass, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg, cheese marbling, leather saddle, and cherry.
When tasted, it turns out to be a little green like the nose. The body is medium, just enough. Balanced wine for alcohol, while tannins are dense, thick, fairly large (5/6) initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little.
Long is its persistence with cherry and woody finish (ends a little bitter)
(88-90/100)
CHÂTEAU D’ARMAILHAC 2018, Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot)
Beautiful purple red.
Nose characterized by aromas of chocolate, plum, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg, black marasca cherry, light green and blackberry.
The body is just medium enough.
Plum and chocolate flavors. Well balanced wine with sweet, fairly broad (5/6) and velvety tannins. Its persistence is long with a chocolate and plum finish immediately felt.
(92-94 / 100)
ARÔMES DE PAVIE 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 65% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc and 17% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Intense cardinalate mantle
The olfactory range opens onto mint perfumes, eucalyptus, chocolate, leather saddle, a little ripe cherry, laurel, sage, chocolate and Bosie.
The body is medium and the wine is balanced between acid shoulder and alcohol. The tannins are wide enough (5/6) initially velvety to then dry and block the upper gum a little. Long persistence with woody finish and with a bitter note due to the wood.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU AUSONE 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 60% Cabernet Franc e 40% Merlot)
Intense purple red – black
Pleasant and varied nose with aromas of plum, hard almond shell, mint, eucalyptus, graphite, tomato paste, light pear, lavender, black maraschino cherry, black pepper and nutmeg.
On the palate you can enjoy a multimedia structure and flavors of plum and squeezed cherry.
The well balanced wine, the alcoholic mass is submissive to freshness and tannins. The tannins are sweet, thick, large (6 / 6--) initially silky to gently dry the upper gum. Long is its persistence with a final fruit sensation.
I found it less boisè than 2016.
I wrote: "beautiful mouth"
(96-98 / 100)
CHÂTEAU BALESTARD LA TONNELLE 2018 Saint Emillon – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc e 5% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Intense dark red-black coat.
On the nose, it reveals aromas of ripe black marasca cherry – candied, mint, eucalyptus, rosemary, with final whispers of black truffle and black olive. The sensation of chocolate explodes on the palate, followed by cherry and mint (reminiscent of that contained in the chocolate “after eight”). Medium-bodied wine, fairly balanced with alcohol a little in evidence on freshness. The tannins are sweet, velvety and fairly broad (5/6). Long persistence with “Mon Chery” taste. The tongue and throat burn a little. American taste, similar to 2015.
(88-90/100)
CHÂTEAU BEAUSEJOU BECOT 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Franc e 6% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Beautiful deep purple red.
The nose shows aromas of oil paint, a little candied cherry, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg, bay leaf and sage.
On the palate it has a candied cherry and chocolate flavor, "Mon Chery" effect. The body is medium and the wine is balanced.
The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6), initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little. His persistence with "Mon Chery" is long
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU
BATAILLEY 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23 % Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot)
Red-purple nuance
Aromas of candied cherry, plum, mint, chocolate and boisè.
In the mouth, chocolate and plum flavors are spread.
The body is medium enough. A little swinging balance between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5 / 6–), initially velvety and then in the end they dry and cause the upper gum to burn a little.
Its persistence is long.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU BEAUREGARD 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 75% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc)
Purple red, black.
Balsamic start with aromas of mint, eucalyptus, bay leaves, rosemary and sage. Following are tones of sweet tobacco from pipe, candied cherry, juniper berry and boiled browns (cooked wild fennel)
Pleasant sip with chocolate and cherry flavors. The body is medium and the wine is balanced. The tannins are sweet, large (6/6) thick and velvety. Its gustative persistence is long, with a final taste that is very reminiscent of candied cherry and chocolate. (Mon Chery).
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU BELAIR, Pomerol 2018 – red
(Grapes : 100% Merlot)
Purple red color
Olfactory opening with an intense fragrance of lemongrass, followed by sweet notes of sugared almond, cherry, rubber, vinous, mint, eucalyptus, tow soaked in wine and hard almond shell.
The body is medium enough, wine balanced between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are velvety and quite wide (5 / 6-). There are slight bitter notes. Its persistence is long. It would have needed, to the taste, a little more structure and fruity flavors.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU BELLEVUE MONDOTTE 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 90% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc e 5% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Deep purple red black color.
From the glass emerge aromas of candied cherry, chocolate (Mon Chery), mint, eucalyptus, boisè, black pepper and nutmeg.
On the palate the body is medium and the wine has the taste of cooked cherries, intense chocolate and bosié.
Wine balanced between alcohol and freshness.
The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6) initially velvety and then dry the upper gum.
Wine for American taste.
My score was generous.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU
BEYCHEVELLE 2018 Saint Julien – red
(Grapes: 50% Merlot, 41 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petiti Verdot e 3 % Cabernet
Frac)
Purple red, black.
From the glass, aromas of a little candied cherry rise, intense chocolate, mint, eucalyptus, fresh and partially dried plum, and rosemary.
Sip with a medium body, cherry, chocolate and mild licorice flavors.
Balanced wine with sweet, fairly broad (5/6) and velvety tannins.
Its gustative persistence is long with a slightly candied cherry and chocolate finish.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LE BON PASTEUR 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc)
Purple-red – black glass
It gives a fruity smell of a little candied cherry, chocolate (Mon Chery), black pepper, nutmeg, mint, eucalyptus and licorice. The taste of wood is felt to the taste. The body is medium generous while the wine is balanced between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are sweet, wide (6 / 6-) initially silky and then dry the upper gum. Its persistence is long with a candied black cherry finish.
Definitely an excellent wine for the American market that generally loves to feel wood and very ripe fruit.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU
BRANAIRE DUCRU 2018 Saint Julien – red
(Grapes: 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33 % Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc e 4% Petit
Verdot)
Intense purple black coat
Aromatic spectrum made of aromas of black cherry, plum, cassis, blackberry, mint, eucalyptus, chocolate, bay leaves, sage and rosemary.
The palate is perceived as having a medium body and a pleasant fresh plum squeezed.
The wine is balanced except for a very slight fluctuating effect between alcohol and freshness that it will surely lose over time. The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5 / 6-) and velvety.
Its taste persistence is long.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU
BRANE CANTENAC 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot e 3% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple-black cape
Aromatic amplitude with intense aromas of chocolate followed by ripe cherry, mint, eucalyptus, ash, black pepper, nutmeg, mild geranium, episperm (second skin of boiled brown) and plum.
The body is very thin balanced wine with imperceptible alcohol thanks to its freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, fairly large (5/6) and silky. Taste of plum, cherry and blueberry that remain during its not long persistence.
Normally this wine does not have much structure.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LA CABANNE 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 94% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc)
Olfactory mix of aromas of cherry, cypress, chocolate, mint and eucalyptus. On the palate the alcohol and freshness are in balance with each other while the tannins are sweet, thick, quite wide (5/6) initially silky and then dry the upper gum. The body is medium and the wine has a cherry flavor. Its persistence with a boisè finish is long.
(88-90/100)
CHÂTEAU CANON LA GAFFELIERE 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 50% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Franc e 15% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Intense purple-black red
Aromas of candied cherry, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg, plum, black olive and oil paint.
On the palate it has a medium body that tends to undress and to highlight tannins. The latter are quite wide (5/6), initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little. Wine balanced with freshness in evidence on alcohol.
Its gustative persistence is long with a chocolate and cherry finish.
Looks like 2016.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU
CANTENAC BROWN 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28 % Merlot e 3% Cabernet Franc)
intense purple-black
It evokes aromas of ripe cherry, chocolate, mint, eucalyptus, plum and ash.
Fruity taste of cherry and plum. The body is medium and the acid-alcohol-tanini axis is in equilibrium. The tannins are sweet, fairly broad (5/6 +) and silky.
Its gustative persistence is long, with a chocolate and ripe cherry finish, but not candied.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU CAP DE MOURLIN 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 65% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc e 10% Cabernet Sauvignon)
deep purple – black
The olfactory box reveals aromas of a little candied cherry, boisé, mint, eucalyptus, cypress, oil paint and chocolate.
The intense chocolate flavor spreads in the oral cavity. The body is medium and the wine for the freshness is balanced, while the tannins are wide enough (5 / 6-) initially velvety to then dry and make the upper gum burn a little. Long persistence with bitter and woodsy chocolate finish.
(87-89 / 100)
CHÂTEAU CARBONNIEUX 2018 Pessac Leognan – red
(Grapes: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc e 5% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple red – black
It expresses aromas of plum, cherry, chocolate, mint, eucalyptus, Scots pine, black pepper and nutmeg. On the palate it is balanced with a medium enough body. The tannins are sweet, thick, fairly broad, initially velvety and then in the end they become a little astringent. Its taste persistence is long.
(89-91 / 100)
CARILLON D’ANGELUS 2018 Saint Emillon – red
(Grapes: 85% Merlot e 15% Cabernet Franc)
Purple red- black
Bouquet made of aromas of black marasca cherries, mint, eucalyptus, semi-dried herbs, black pepper, intense nutmeg, worked and vegetable skin with final puffs of cloves.
On the palate it shows a medium sufficient body. Balanced wine for alcohol, thanks to the acid shoulder. The tannins are sweet, thick, initially velvety and then dry the upper gum. Long is its persistence with bosié finish.
(89-91 / 100)
CARRUADES DE LAFITE 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes : 56,5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot e 5,5% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple red – black
On the nose it diffuses aromas of mint, eucalyptus, plum, black pepper, nutmeg, smoked, black marasca cherry, gazzozzola and eggs.
The body has a good structure and the wine is well balanced between alcohol and freshness, while the tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6), thick, initially velvety and then burn the upper gum a little. Its persistence is long with a slightly bitter finish due for the boisé.
In my notes I wrote: “very concentrated”
(91-93 / 100)
CHAPELLE D’AUSONE 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc e 10% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Very beautiful purple-black red
Olfactory debut with hints of sweet boisé, mint, eucalyptus, plum, cassis, black maraschino cherry, chocolate, bay leaf, sage, juniper berry, black pepper and nutmeg.
On the taste test it has a pleasant fruity sensation of plum and blueberry. The body is medium and the wine is well balanced.
The tannins are sweet, velvety and broad (6 / 6–). Its persistence is long with a fruity finish.
(93-95 / 100)
LA CHAPELLE DE LA MISSION HAUT- BRION 2018 Pessac-Leognan – red
(Grapes: 51,6% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40,8% Merlot e 7,6% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple red – black
The olfactory profile is broad and varied, with intense aromas of cherry followed by slightly crispy prune, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg, cassis, sweet outside of the candy, slight cloves, sweet pipe tobacco, laurel, blackberry slightly ripe, light black olive to finish with tomato sauce.
On the palate it has a nice fruity sensation, has a medium body and the wine has a nice balance. The tannins are sweet, fairly broad (5/6), elegant and initially silky for a little then dry the upper gum.
Its persistence is long.
Wine more elegant than powerful.
(91-93 / 100)
CHAPELLE DE POTENSAC 2018 Medoc – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon e 5% Cabernet Franc)
Beautiful ruby red and light purple
A slightly lazy nose that highlights, in succession, the aromas of yellow and red pears, mint and cassis.
On the gustatory test we perceive a medium body which tends to lighten. Good taste balance with sweet, silky and fairly broad tannins (5/6 +).
Its taste persistence is long enough with a chocolate finish.
(88-99 / 100)
DOMAINE DE CHEVALIER 2018 Pessac Leognan – red
(Grapes : 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot e 5% Petit Verdot)
Dress red purple – black
Intense hints of pear thigh followed by plum, cherry, mint, eucalyptus, tomato paste, bay leaf, rosemary and a smoky trail.
The taste has a pleasant plum flavor. The body is delicate, not heavy. Well balanced wine with freshness and tannins that exceed the alcoholic mass. The tannins are sweet, wide (6 / 6-) and velvety. Its persistence is long with a squeezed plum and chocolate finish.
(93-95 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LA CHENADE 2018 Lalande de Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc)
Red-purple color – black.
Aromas of cherry, mint, eucalyptus, chocolate and processed leather
Chocolate flavor. The body is medium enough. Balanced wine with alcohol submitted to freshness.
The tannins are sweet, fairly broad, initially velvety and then slightly stick the upper gum. Its persistence is long.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LA CHENADE 2018 Lalande de Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc)
Red-purple color – black.
Aromas of cherry, mint, eucalyptus, chocolate and processed leather
Chocolate flavor. The body is medium enough. Balanced wine with alcohol submitted to freshness.
The tannins are sweet, fairly broad, initially velvety and then slightly stick the upper gum. Its persistence is long.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU CHEVAL BLANC 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 54% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc e 6% Cabernet Sauvignon)
On the visual it is purple-black red
The nose smells of marasca cherry, cassis, black pepper, nutmeg, mint, eucalyptus, chocolate, hard almond shell, fresh plum, rose, lilac, cocoa, bay leaf and sage.
At the shell there is a pleasant elegance of tannins which are sweet, thick, wide (6 / 6–) and silky. The body is medium enough and the wine is well balanced with alcohol, subjected to alcohol and tannins. Its taste persistence is long. Fine and elegant wine that would have needed a little more structure.
(95-97 / 100)
LE CLARENCE DE HAUT-BRION 2018 Pessac-Leognan – red
(Grapes: 58.2% Merlot, 28.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9.7% Cabernet Franc and 3.6% Petit Verdot)
Intense ruby red – purple
The olfactory profile opens up to various aromas including cherry, black pepper, nutmeg, plum, sweet notes, mint, eucalyptus, laurel, sage, incense, sacristy furniture, ripe tomato, sweet notes, starch (amid to iron ), blueberry, to finish with light green notes and worked leather.
The body is medium enough. Well balanced wine with sweet tannins, fairly large (5 / 6-), silky and fine.
Its persistence is long with a finish of plum and licorice.
(92-94 / 100)
DOMAINE DE A 2018 Castillon – Côtes de Bordeaux – red
(Grapes: 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc)
Purple red
Aromas of cherry, mint, eucalyptus, fresh plum, cypress berry, sweet boisè, light black pepper and nutmeg, hay and puffs of incense.
On the palate pleasant flavors of cherry and plum, medium body, alcohol exceeded by freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, velvety and fairly broad (5/6 +). Long fruity persistence accompanied by sweet bosié notes.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU CLERC MILON 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot and 1% Carmenere)
Intense purple red cloak
To the nose it evokes aromas of ripe cherries with candied tones, ripe plum, cherry in alcohol, mint and eucalyptus.
The body is medium enough. Well balanced wine with alcohol dominated by freshness and tannins.
The latter are sweet, large (6 / 6-) and velvety. Slightly cooked cherry flavor. Its gustative persistence is long with a chocolate finish.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU CLINET 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 85% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Red-purple coat
On the nose the woody note emerges that recalls, for this reason, 2016.
This is followed by a little candied cherry, mint, eucalyptus, chocolate, bay leaves, sage, juniper berry, processed leather, plum and blueberry.
On the palate it reveals a medium body and cherry flavor. The wine is balanced between alcohol and freshness while the tannins are sweet, fairly large (5 / 6–), initially velvety and then in the finish to burn the upper gum a little. Its persistence is long.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU CLOS DE BAIES 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc)
Dress red purple – black
Nose gratified by aromas of ripe cherry, rubber, intense chocolate, black pepper, nutmeg, mint, eucalyptus and boisé. Pleasant chocolatey sip. The body is medium and the wine is well balanced, alcohol is not perceived.
The tannins are sweet, thick, fairly large (5/6) initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little. Long persistence with chocolate and light cherry finish.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LA CLOTTE 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc)
red purple-black
Olfactory fan with aromas of plum, cherry, black pepper, nutmeg, mint, eucalyptus, laurel, sage, rosemary, chocolate, spray starch (starch), cocoa, blueberry, licorice and mild boisé.
Pleasantly fruity in the mouth with a taste of plum, blueberry and black marasca cherry. The body is medium enough and the wine is well balanced. The tannins are sweet, thick, large (6 / 6–) initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little. Its persistence is long with a fruity and licorice finish.
2016 was more boisé, ending with the memory of the chocolate “After Eight”.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU CLOS FOURTET 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc)
Dress red purple black.
The nose reveals the scent of pear thigh, followed by the slight drawer of medicines, black pepper, nutmeg, medicinal herbs (reminiscent of the bitter Don Bairo), mint, with a slight incense finish.
The taste has a pleasant fruity sensation of cherry and plum. The body is moderate, medium, just enough. Wine balanced with imperceptible alcohol, thanks to the freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, wide (6 / 6–) and silky. Its persistence is long but not very long.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU CLOS LUNELLES 2018 Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux – red
(Grapes: 80% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon)
It dresses deep purple red
Olfactory expression made of aromas of chocolate and candied cherry (Mon Chery) followed by black olive, mint, eucalyptus, sweet pipe tobacco with dried cherry and boisé.
The body is medium and the wine is balanced between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are wide enough (5/6) initially velvety to then dry the upper gum a little. Its persistence is long with a slightly bitter finish. (wood?)
(89-91/100)
CHÂTEAU CLOS DE MARQUIS 2018 Saint Julien – red
(Grapes: 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple-black red
Aromatic incisiveness made up of aromas of chocolate, licorice, smoky, mint, laurel, rosemary, oil paint, incense, black maraschino cherry and plum.
On the palate the body is medium and the wine has a good balance with freshness and tannins in relief. The latter are sweet, large (6 / 6-), initially velvety to then dry slightly in the finish.
Long persistence with cocoa, plum and black marasca cherry finish.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LA CONSEILLANTE 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 83% Merlot, 17% Cabernet Franc)
deep purple red – black
It gives a sense of smell of cherry, chocolate, mint, eucalyptus, oil paint, pea peel, graphite, plum, laurel and chocolate.
Fruity mouth of blackberry, cassis, and black marasca cherry. The body is just medium enough and is supported by freshness. Pleasant taste balance with the freshness and tannins that dominate the alcohol. The tannins are sweet, fairly broad (5/6) and velvety.
Even if the body loses a bit of substance, the freshness sustains it and makes its gustative persistence long, leaving a trail of black marasca cherry and slightly bitter chocolate.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU COS LABORY 2018 Saint Estephe – red
(Grapes: 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot and 10% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple red black
Olfactory range made of scents of licorice, candied marasca cherry, black pepper and nutmeg.
The taste reveals a medium body and a good balance between alcohol and freshness. Tannins are sweet, fairly large ((5/6), initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little in the finish. Boisé flavor. Long is its gustatory persistence with woody finish.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU COUHINS 2018 Pessac Leognan – red
(Grapes: 56% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot and 6% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple red – black
Olfactory debut with intense perfume of coscia pear, followed by mint, eucalyptus, cherry, plum, slight boisé, licorice and smoky tones.
To the taste the wine has a medium body and has a good balance, alcohol is not perceived thanks to the freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, large (6 / 6–), initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little. Smoked flavor (wood ember). Its persistence with a plum and smoky finish is long.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU COS D’ESTOURNEL 2018 Saint Estephe – red
(Grapes: 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple-red coat – black
Sweet olfactory onset reminiscent of the outer part of the sugared almond. This is followed by aromas of licorice, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg, juniper berry, laurel, cassis, episperm, leather in fine tannery processing, black olive, plum, black maraschino cherry, chocolate and tomato paste.
On the gustatory test, a medium body is sufficient and the acid – alcohol – tannin axis is in equilibrium. The tannins are sweet, wide (6/6) initially silky and then in the finish slightly dry the upper gum. (wood tannins)
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU COUSPAUDE 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Purple robe with black heart
The olfactory approach highlights aromas of warm bread, yeasts and medicine drawer, oil paint, cherry, black pepper, nutmeg, rosemary and black olive.
Chocolate flavor. The body is medium and the wine for alcohol is balanced.
The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6 +), thick, initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little.
Its persistence with a chocolate finish is long.
(89-91 / 100)
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LACROIX DE GAY 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 93% Merlot and 7% Cabernet Franc)
Deep purple-red color
It evokes aromas of slightly candied cherries, boisé, mint, eucalyptus, starch (spray starch), black pepper, nutmeg, bay leaf and sage.
The nose feels the boisé and sweet pipe tobacco with freeze-dried cherry.
The body is medium and the wine, between alcohol and freshness, is well balanced.
The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6), initially velvety and then dry the upper gum.
Its persistence is long with a chocolate and a little candied cherry finish (Mon Chery).
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LES CRUZELLES 2018 Lalande de Pomerol – white
(Grapes: 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple cloak
The olfactory approach is dominated by an intense chocolate note followed by black maraschino cherry, starch (spray starch for ironing), blond pipe tobacco with freeze-dried cherry, black pepper, nutmeg, bay leaf and sage.
Chocolate and medium body flavor. The wine is balanced with alcohol dominated by freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, fairly large (5/6 +) initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little.
Long persistence with final that dries the upper gum a little.
He feels a little boisé.
(90-92 / 100)
LA DAME DE MONTROSE 2018 Saint Estephe – red
(Grapes: 52% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot and 4% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple-red cape – black
Olfactory mix made of aromas of fairly ripe fruit and exactly of cassis, plum, and black marasca cherry. Follow notes of juniper berry, mint, eucalyptus, licorice and rosemary.
The body is medium and the wine has a good balance between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are sweet, wide (6 / 6–), initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little. Flavors of plum, slightly ripe cherry squeezed, and chocolate.
Its gustative persistence is long with a chocolate finish.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU DAUZAC 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 68% Cabernet Sauvignon and 32% Merlot)
Intense purple – black
Bouquet made of aromas of lightly cooked plum, fulminant, mint, eucalyptus, black olive, chocolate, blueberry, bay leaf, sage and rosemary.
The body is medium enough. Plum and blueberry flavor, slightly unripe.
Wine balanced with harmless alcohol thanks also to the abundant freshness.
The tannins are sweet, wide (6 / 6-) and silky. Its persistence is long with a finish of plum and blueberry with the right maturation and in the final it feels a more mature fruit.
(93-95 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LA DOMINIQUE 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 85% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Ruby red and purple mix.
Olfactory register made of aromas of cherry, mint, eucalyptus, oil paint, laurel and rosemary.
On the palate it shows a medium body and a good gustative balance with the alcoholic mass dominated by freshness and tannins.
The latter are sweet, large (6 / 6-), thick and velvety. Long is its persistence with chocolate flavors, sweet pipe tobacco (Clan) and candied cherry.
(88-90/100)
CHÂTEAU DUHART-MILON 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot)
Red purple-black coat
The nose expresses aromas of plum, blueberry, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg, black maraschino cherry, oil paint, laurel and rosemary.
Pleasant sip with chocolate explosion.
The body is medium and the wine has an excellent gustatory balance. The tannins are sweet, fairly broad (5/6 + +) thick and velvety.
Long is its persistence with cherry and chocolate finish.
(93-95 / 100)
ECO DE LYNCH BAGES 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple red – black
It evokes aromas of chocolate, plum, light peel peas, mint, eucalyptus, to end with flavors of tomato paste.
Pleasant mouth with intense plum sensations. The body is medium and the wine is well balanced with the alcoholic mass dominated by freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, large (6/6), fine and silky. Its persistence is long with a finish of plum and chocolate.
For me the best eco ever made.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU L’EGLISE CLINET 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc)
It is tinged with intense purple red
The olfactory efficacy shows aromas of intense chocolate, cherry, starch, black pepper, very light black truffles, slight boiled milk to end with whispers of tomato paste.
The taste has an intense flavor of chocolate and followed by cherry. The body is medium. Acid-alcohol-tannins in perfect balance. The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6 + +), initially velvety and then in the end dry and cause the upper gum to burn a little.
Its taste persistence is long.
(92-94 / 100)
ESPRIT DE PAVIE 2018 Bordeaux – red
(Grapes: 65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Intense purple-red – black coat.
On the nose it evokes aromas of candied cherry, chocolate, spray starch, mint, eucalyptus and bosié.
Sweet mouth reminiscent of the “Mon Chery” chocolate (candied cherry and milk chocolate). The body is medium and freshness dominates the alcohol. The tannins are not very wide (4/6 +), initially velvety to then dry and cause the upper gum to burn. Its persistence is long with a slightly bitter finish for the woods.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU L’EVANGILE 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc)
Black dress
The nose has an intense aroma of chocolate, followed by mint, eucalyptus, cypress, black pepper, nutmeg and woody.
Pleasant sip, characterized by aromas reminiscent of slightly candied cherry and chocolate. The body is medium and the wine is perfectly balanced. The tannins are sweet, velvety and fairly broad (5/6 +). Its taste is long with a concentration of flavors already felt with the addition of a woody note.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU FERRANDE 2018 Pessac Leognan – red
(Grapes: 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Deep purple-red – black robe
Aromatic joint made of aromas of ripe marasca cherry, plum, chocolate and eucalyptus.
When tasted, it reveals chocolate, cherry and sweet pipe tobacco flavors.
The body is medium and the wine is balanced. The tannins are fairly large (5/6) sweet, initially intense, velvety and then dry the upper gum a little.
Its persistence is long.
(88-90 / 100)
BLASON DE L’EVANGILE 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc)
It dresses deep purple red, black
Bouquet with aromas of chocolate, partially candied cherry, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg and black olive.
On the palate you can feel the “Mon Chery” effect, that is chocolate and candied cherry. The body is medium and the wine for alcohol is balanced. The tannins are thick, fairly broad (5/6), initially velvety and then in the end dry the upper gum a little. Its persistence is long with a finish of peach and coconut. (wood?)
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU DE FONBEL 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 10% Carmenere)
At the sight it is purple-black red
Rich olfactory range with fragrances of medicine drawer (typical in young merlot), mint, eucalyptus, rightly ripe cherry, sweets from the outside of the candy, leather at the end of tannery processing, black pepper, nutmeg, slight juniper berries, chocolate, very light green, to end with blueberry and plum references.
Palate gratified by a beautiful black marasca cherry, followed by plum and blueberry.
The body is medium and the wine is well balanced with the alcoholic mass dominated by freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, fairly large (5 / 6–), initially velvety and then, at the end, slightly dry the upper gum. Nice wine.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU FONPLEGADE 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc)
Red-purple – black color
A bit boisé olfactory approach (moldy orange peel), followed by mint (remember the chocolate after eight), eucalyptus, chocolate, cherry, plum and hints of graphite.
The body is at the limit of sufficiency.
Wine balanced between alcohol and freshness.
The tannins are quite wide (5/6 +) initially silky and then dried and the upper gum burns a little. Its persistence is long with a slightly bitter and woodsy finish.
(89-91 / 100)
LES FORTS DE LATOUR 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 65.6% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot and 0.4% Petit Verdot)
Beautiful deep purple red – black
From the olfactory casket, aromas of pear, thigh, cigar box, hydrolytic, plum, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg, bay leaf, sage, light mothballs and rubber are spread.
In the mouth it resumes for its elegance. Plum flavors, which take all the oral cavity and chocolate.
The body is medium and the wine is well balanced. The tannins are sweet, wide (6/6) and silky.
Its gustative persistence is long with the continuation of flavors of plum and chocolate.
A second important wine.
(94-96 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LA GAFFELIERE 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 63% Merlot and 37% Cabernet Franc)
Black purple red cloack.
From the glass rise aromas of black pepper, nutmeg, cloves, cherry, coscia pear and tomato in a jar.
Palate cheered by fruity flavors of plum and black marasca cherry a little ripe.
The body is medium and the wine for alcohol is well balanced while the tannins are sweet, wide (6-6-), quite thick, initially silky and then in the end to burn, slightly, the upper gum.
Its taste persistence is long.
(93-95 / 100)
CHÂTEAU GAZIN 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 93% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple-red – black cloack.
It spreads an intense perfume of liquorice followed by cherry, processed leather, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg, bay leaf, sage, chocolate, (goudron), sweet pipe tobacco to end with juniper berry.
The taste is reminiscent of a sweet pipe tobacco with freeze-dried cherry.
The body is medium and the wine is balanced with alcohol dominated by freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, large (6 / 6–) initially velvety to then dry and burn the upper gum a little.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU GISCOURS 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 55% Cabernet Souvignon, 39% Merlot and 6% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple – black.
The olfactory approach has the scent of black cherry, ripe cherry, plum, blueberry, mint, eucalyptus, light black pepper, chocolate and a hint of green note.
Taste has flavors of plum, blueberry and fresh blackberry. The body is medium to the limit of sufficiency. Balanced wine and sweet, velvety and fairly wide tannins (5/6 +). Its persistence is long.
Pleasant wine that would have needed more structure.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU GLORIA 2018 Saint Julien – red
(Grapes: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc)
On the visual it is intense purple red – black
Olfactory fan with aromas of enamel paint, cypress, plum, blueberry and cherry, mint, eucalyptus, chocolate with sweet woody whispers.
The body is medium and the wine has flavors of plum, blueberry and black marasca cherry. Balanced wine with sweet tannins, quite wide (5/6) initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little. Its persistence is long. This wine surprised me positively for the pleasant fruity note both on the nose and on the taste.
(92-94 / 100)
GOULÈE de Cos D’estournel 2018 Saint Esthephe – red
(Grapes: 73% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Cabernet Franc)
Beautiful purple red with black heart.
Nose enchanted by the scent of a pleasant cherry, followed by mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg, fir, cypress, boisé and leather at the end of tannery processing.
On the palate the body is just medium enough and has a pleasant cherry sensation.
Wine balanced with imperceptible alcohol.
The tannins are sweet, fine, fairly broad (5/6) and silky. Its taste persistence is long.
Elegant wine and certainly not power.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU GRAND PUY DUCASSE 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 48% Merlot)
Dress purple red – black
The immediate olfactory sensation is the intense boisé, followed by mint, plum, old wood, black pepper, nutmeg and chocolate.
Taste debut with flavors of black marasca cherries, liquorice and boisé.
The body is medium and the wine is balanced. The tannins are quite wide (5/6) and velvety. Long taste persistence with boisé finish.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU GRAND PUY LACOSTE 2018 Paullac – red
(Grapes: 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot)
Red purple – black
Bouquet of cassis aromas, paint enamel, mint, eucalyptus, cherry, plum, marzipan paste and oil paint.
The body is medium and the wine is balanced for the alcohol that is dominated by freshness. The tannins are sweet, fairly broad (5/6 initially velvety to then dry the upper gum a little. Long gustatory persistence with boisé finish.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU GRAUD LAROSE 2018 Saint Julien – red
(Grapes: 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple red
Olfactory mix of plum, cassis, mint, eucalyptus, licorice, cherry, chocolate, bay leaf, rosemary, caoutchouc and tomato paste.
On the gustatory test a diffused fruity sensation of plum is enjoyed. The body is medium and the wine is well balanced. The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6 + +), initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little. Its persistence with a plum and woody finish is long. He will have to lose and lose some boisé.
(92-94 / 100)
LES GRIFFONS DE PICHON BARON 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 52% Cabernet Sauvignon and 48% Merlot)
Intense purple red – black
Olfactory sensations of chocolate, licorice, mint, eucalyptus, plum, black pepper, desserts from the outside of the comfit, starch (spray starch for ironing), black maraschino cherry, and nutmeg.
On the palate it shows a medium body and a good balance with subdued alcohol. The tannins are sweet, thick, fairly large (5/6) initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little. Its gustative persistence is long with final boisé accents. It will need some refinement in the bottle because the wine loses a little wood.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU HAUT BAILLY 2018 Pessac Legnan – red
(Grapes: 55% Cabernet Suvignon, 35% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 5% Cabernet Franc)
Dress red purple – black
An olfactory casing that reveals aromas of leather at the end of its processing, a sweet from the outside of the comfit, plum, cherry, mint, eucalyptus, blueberry and slight final puffs.
The body is medium sized, a wine that tends more to elegance than to power.
Well balanced wine with sweet tannins, quite large (5/6) and silky. Its taste persistence is long.
It is elegant and pleasant.
(97-99 / 100)
CHÂTEAU BAILLY ǁ 2018 Pessac Legnan – red
(GRAPES: 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Purple-red – black cloak
The nose reveals aromas of vegetable leather, plum, cherry, mint, eucalyptus, sweets from the outside of the candy, black pepper and nutmeg.
On the palate the wine spreads in width.
The body is thin, fine and elegant. Balanced wine with non-perceptible alcohol thanks to its freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, fairly large (5/6), initially silky and then burn the upper gum a little. Its persistence is long with a finish of plum and cherry.
(91-93 / 100)
TOWARDS “DE CHATEAU HAUT BATAILLEY 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 82% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Merlot)
Purple coat
Not particularly rich nose with aromas of plum, oil paint, light green, black pepper and nutmeg.
The body is medium and the wine is balanced between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are a little central (4/6 +), initially, velvety, and then dry the upper gum. Its persistence is long.
(87-89 / 100)
CHÂTEAU HAUT BATAILLEY 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 59% Cabernet Sauvignon and 41% Merlot)
Dress red purple – black
The nose expresses aromas of plum, chocolate, pea peel and black marasca cherry.
On the palate, sensations of plum and chocolate are enjoyed. The body is medium and the wine is well balanced. The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6 +) initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU HAUT BERGEY 2018 Pessac Leognan – red
(Grapes: 42% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc and 6% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple red – black
Aromas of plum, mint, eucalyptus, cherry, light boisé, laurel, sage and chocolate.
When tasted, the body is medium enough with flavors of plum and chocolate.
Balanced wine with sweet, fairly broad (5 / 6–) tannins, initially velvety, which dry the upper gum a little at the end.
Its persistence is long.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU HAUT- BRION 2018 Pessac-Leognan – red
(Grapes: 49.4% Merlot, 38.7% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11.9% Cabernet Franc)
Black – purple red cloak
The olfactory baggage evokes aromas of black pepper, nutmeg, intense incense and lavender, cherry, plum, Virginia blond tobacco, boisé, cocoa, apretto, mint, eucalyptus, laurel, sage, hydrolytic (powder that transforms the still water into sparkling) and milk cream.
On the palate the body is medium-fine and the wine is sapid well balanced, thanks to the freshness and tannins that exceed the alcoholic mass. The tannins are sweet, fine, wide (6 / 6-), thick, elegant and silky.
Its persistence is long with a finish that recalls the hard almond shell.
(96-98 / 100)
CHÂTEAU SIMARD 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon)
It dresses intense purple red – black
Nose characterized by intense spicy aromas of black pepper, nutmeg and cloves, followed by plum, cherry, leather at the end of the tannery, laurel, sage, mint, eucalyptus, slight drawer of medicine, sacristy furniture, and incense .
The taste is perceived as a medium body that tends to thin. Chocolate flavor. Wine with good acidity that dominates alcohol. The tannins are sweet, fairly broad (5/6) initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little. Long persistence with a plum finish.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU The IF 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 74% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Franc)
Beautiful purple red
Fragrances that evoke flavors of cherry, mint, eucalyptus, slight juniper berries, oil paint, milk cream, to end with spicy puffs of black pepper and nutmeg. Mouth satisfied with a pleasant cherry.
The body is medium and the wine is well balanced with little perceptible alcohol thanks to its freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, thick, fairly large (5/6 +), initially silky and then dry and burn the upper gum a little.
Long persistence with cherry finish. For tannins it reminds me of 2016.
(93-95 / 100)
CHÂTEAU KIRWAN 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 13% Petit Verdot)
Intense bright purple red color.
Aromas of cherry, plum, blueberry, chocolate, mint, eucalyptus, light black pepper, nutmeg spread from the glass. It has a fine and elegant nose.
The palate is captivated by fruity notes of cherry and plum and a dose of chocolate. Balanced wine with acid-alcohol-tannins in complete harmony. The body is medium enough while the tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6 +), fine, silky and elegant.
Its persistence is long.
Wine that surprised me for its pleasure.
(93-95 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LABEGORCE 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot)
Beautiful cardinalized mantle.
Not a particularly generous nose with incense-infused sacristy furniture, followed by mint, eucalyptus and chocolate.
The body is medium to the limit of sufficiency. Taste of cherry and plum, slightly sour, followed by chocolate. Balanced wine with sweet, silky and wide tannins (6 / 6–). Long persistence with boisé finish.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LAFITE ROTHSCHILD Pauillac 2018 – red
(Grapes: 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8.5% Merlot and 0.5% Peti Verdot)
Deep purple-red – black dress
Range of olfactory sensations characterized by intense notes of plum, followed by blueberry, cassis, bay leaf, sage, rosemary, mint, eucalyptus, blackberry and peeled red tomato.
Pleasant palate with ripe blackberry flavor. The body is not excessive but it is medium enough. The wine is perfectly balanced and the tannins are large (6/6), sweet, thick and silky. Its persistence is long with a finish of blackberry and cassis.
Beautiful wine of great elegance and with high level tannins.
(98-100 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LAFON ROCHET 2018 Saint Estephe – red
(Grapes: 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot and 4% Cabernet Franc)
Purple red with black heart
On the nose I seem to perceive a slight green note that reminds me of the skin of peas and tar, following clear hints of licorice, mint, eucalyptus, plum and black marasca cherry.
On the palate the body is medium enough.
The wine is balanced between alcohol and freshness.
The tannins are quite wide (5/6 +) initially velvety and then in the end dry the upper gum a little.
Long is its persistence with cherry, plum and woody finish.
Due to the presence of wood it reminds of 2015.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LAGRANGE 2018 Saint Julien – red
(Grapes: 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple-black coat
The olfactory profile reveals aromas of plum, cherry, mint, eucalyptus, laurel, sage, licorice, woody sweets, cassis and chocolate.
On the palate the body is medium enough and the wine has a slight up and down feeling between alcohol and freshness which, with the stop of the wine in the bottle, will disappear.
The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6) initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little.
Its persistence is long with a finish of plum, cherry and woody.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LARMANDE 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 80% Merlot, 17% Cabernet Franc and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon)
It dresses intense purple red – black
Aromas of candied cherry, mint, eucalyptus, oil paint and light black pepper.
In the mouth it tastes of candied cherry and chocolate (Mon Chery).
The body is medium and the wine is balanced with tannins, sweet, thick, fairly large (5/6), initially velvety to then dry the upper gum a little. Its persistence is long. American style.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LANGOA BARTON 2018 Saint Julien – red
(Grapes: 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple red cloak.
Smell enchanted by a beautiful crunchy cherry, followed by fruity sensations of plum, cassis and intense blueberry. The olfactory trail continues with notes of mint, eucalyptus, leather at the end of processing, licorice and graphite.
On the gustatory test we perceive a medium body and a wine balanced between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are pounding and are sweet, fairly large (5/6), initially silky and then slightly dried to burn the upper gum.
Its persistence is long with a finish of plum and squeezed cherry.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LARRIVET HAUT- BRION 2018 Pessac Leognan – red
(Grapes: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc)
Red purple-black coat.
Bouquet of plum, smoked, black pepper, nutmeg, graphite green pepper, mint, eucalyptus, laurel, sage and lemongrassa.
Sour flavor with a taste of plums and cherries, a little unripe. Strong acidity. The body is medium and the wine is balanced for the alcohol that is not perceived. The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6), initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little. Long persistence with a plum finish.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LASCOMBES 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple black
It reveals aromas of ripe black marasca cherries, intense chocolate, mint, eucalyptus, rosemary, boisé and sweet pipe tobacco.
On the palate there is a noticeable intrusiveness of the wood which will diminish with time.
The body is medium, to the limit of sufficiency. Wine balanced between alcohol and sour shoulder.
The tannins are sweet, wide (6 / 6-) initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little. Its persistence is long with a slightly boisé finish.
(90-92 / 100)
GRAND VIN DE CHÂTEAU LATOUR 2018 – Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Merlot)
Intense purple-red / black cloak.
On the nose it evokes aromas of plum, cassis, cigar box, intense hydrolytic (powder that turns still water into sparkling), chocolate, lemongrassa, blueberry, pear thigh, mint, eucalyptus, bay leaf, sage, peeled tomato and marasca cherry Black.
Plum and chocolate flavors, medium body and well balanced wine with imperceptible alcohol. The tannins are sweet, large (6 / 6-), thick and silky. Long intense aromatic persistence.
(96-98 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LATOUR MARTILLAC 2018 Pessac Leognan – red
(Grapes: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32 Merlot and 8% Petit Verdot)
Red purple dress.
Range of olfactory sensations with aromas of a little candied cherry, mint, eucalyptus, light black pepper, sweet bémeé, plum and warm cloth.
On the palate, fruity notes of ripe plum and cherry are felt. The body is medium and the wine for alcohol and freshness is balanced. The tannins are fairly large (5/6 +) sweet initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little. Its taste persistence is long.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LYNCH BAGES 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple red
Bouquet made of aromas of chocolate, pugna, ciliegio, mint, eucalyptus, light green, to finish with the enamel of paint.
Chocolate flavor. The body is medium, well balanced wine. The tannins are sweet, wide (6 / 6-), thick, initially silky and then in the final, slightly dry the upper gum.
Its persistence is long.
(96-98 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LEOVILLE BARTON 2018 Saint Julien – red
(Grapes: 82% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Merlot)
Deep purple red, black.
Nose open to the aromas of ripe cherry, chocolate, plum and woods.
Plum and blueberry flavor. The body is medium enough. Well balanced wine with sweet, fairly large (5 / 6-) and velvety tannins. Its persistence is long with a fresh plum finish.
(91-93 / 100)
GRAND VIN DE LEOVILLE 2018, Saint Julien – red
(Grapes: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc and 9% Merlot)
It is tinged with intense purple – black
The olfactory efficacy shows aromas of chocolate plum, graphite oil paint, starch (iron starch spray), licorice, cherry, blackberry, black pepper, nutmeg and incense.
On the palate the body is medium. The wine tastes like cocoa powder and is well balanced with acidity and tannins that dominate the alcohol mass without hesitation.
The tannins are sweet, wide (5 / 6–) and silky. Its taste persistently long with a cocoa and plum finish.
(95-97 / 100)
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LEOVILLE POYFERRE 2018 Saint Julien – red
(Grapes: 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot)
It expresses its youth by showing an intense purple color – black.
Olfactory sensation of medicine drawer, boiled milk, chocolate, mint, eucalyptus, licorice, cherry and boisé.
The body is medium enough. Plum and boisé flavor. Wine balanced between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6) initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little.
Its gustative persistence is long with a boisé finish.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LESPAULT- MARTILLAC 2018 Pessac Leognan – red
(Grapes: 64% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot)
Red-purple color – black
Nose of pear, mint, eucalyptus, light boisé, plum, cherry, bay leaves, tomato paste and rosemary puffs.
The body is medium enough. Well balanced wine with fairly large tannins (5/6), sweet and a little rough. Pleasant wine with a taste of plum and cherry that remains even during its persistence.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LA LOUVIERE 2018 Pessac Leognan – red
(Grapes: 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Merlot)
Purple red
Nose with aromas of plum, cherry, mint, light boisè, black pepper, light eucalyptus and leather in fine tannery processing.
On the palate it has a medium body and is balanced between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are quite wide (5/6) and velvety.
Long persistence with a bitter finish for the wood. This is why 2018 reminds me of 2016 and 2015.
(87-89 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LUCIA 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc)
Red-purple coat
Olfactory mix of cherry and plum squeezed perfumes, mint, eucalyptus, intense rosemary, medicinal herbs, boisé and incense.
Fruity taste of cherry and plum.
The body is medium and the wine is well balanced between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are wide (6 / 6-), initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little at the end.
Its gustative persistence is long with fruity notes.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LUSSEAU 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Red-purple color – black
Aromatic imprint of black pepper, candied cherry, intense pine resin, gazzozzola, mint, eucalyptus and boisé.
The taste of wood is very strong, the tannins are quite wide (5/6), dry the upper gum, the alcohol is not perceived thanks to the freshness. The body is medium and long and its persistence with candied cherry and boisé finish.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU MALARTIC LAGRAVIERE 2018 Pessac Leognan – red
(Grapes: 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot)
Beautiful purple red.
The smell of candied cherries followed by the balsamic vinegar of pine, mint, eucalyptus, ripe plum and hints of dried plum is in evidence.
On the palate it feels a fruit too evolved and that is cooked. The body is medium. Balanced wine for alcohol that is imperceptible. The tannins are sweet, large (6 / 6–) and velvety.
Long persistence with cooked fruit and mint finish.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU MALESCOT 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc)
Intense red-purple – black robe.
The beginning of the olfactory examination makes us smell aromas of chocolate and candied cherry followed by notes of plum, cypress, mint, eucalyptus, rosemary and sage.
Mouth characterized by flavors of plum, cherry and chocolate. The body is medium to the limit of sufficiency and the wine is balanced between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are quite wide (5 / 6-) initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little.
Long persistence with slightly bitter finish for the boisé.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU MARGAUX 208 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot)
Beautiful purple red
On the nose it diffuses aromas of fresh plum, mint, eucalyptus, intense cigars, black pepper, nutmeg, bay leaves and dried tomato references.
The body is medium and the wine has an excellent balance with imperceptible alcohol thanks to the acid shoulder and tannins.
These last ones are sweet, thick, wide (6 / 6-) and velvety. Long persistence with a plum and chocolate finish. Unlike Palmer, which is already ready, this wine will need a little time to stay in the bottle. Great wine.
(97-99 / 100)
BLASON DE L’EVANGILE 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc)
It dresses deep purple red, black
Bouquet with aromas of chocolate, partially candied cherry, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg and black olive.
On the palate you can feel the “Mon Chery” effect, that is chocolate and candied cherry. The body is medium and the wine for alcohol is balanced. The tannins are thick, fairly broad (5/6), initially velvety and then in the end dry the upper gum a little. Its persistence is long with a finish of peach and coconut. (wood?)
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU MARQUIS DE TERME 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot)
Red cardinal with an intense – black heart.
The olfactory effectiveness shows aromas of fir, cypress, intense chocolate, mint, eucalyptus, cherry, black pepper, nutmeg and boisé.
On the gustatory test we perceive a medium body, at the limit of sufficiency, and a chocolate flavor. Wine balanced between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6), initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little.
Its taste persistence is long.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LA MISSION HAUT – BRION 2018 Pessac Leognan – red
(Grapes: 53.5% Merlot, 42.9% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3.6% Cabernet Franc)
Intense ruby-purple red.
Wide and varied nose with intense aromas of old wood, plum, black olive, cassis, black pepper, nutmeg, incense, black marasca cherry, cocoa, blueberry, mint, eucalyptus, laurel, sage, starch (spray starch for ironing) and tomato.
The taste is a medium-fine body.
The wine is well balanced with harmonious acid-alcohol-tannin axis. The tannins are sweet, thick, wide (6 / 6-), initially velvety to then dry a little in the finish.
Its persistence with a plum and boisé finish is long.
(93-95 / 100)
CHÂTEAU MONBRISON 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple – black
Nose characterized by aromas of chocolate, cherry, warm bread, plum, cassis, mint and eucalyptus.
On the palate it has a medium body sufficient. Flavors of intense plum and cherry. Wine balanced with imperceptible alcohol. The tannins are sweet, not so wide (4/6 ++) initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little. Its taste persistence is long.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU MONBOUSQUET 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Red purple – black
With an olfactory approach with aromas of mint, eucalyptus, mortadella pistachio, mustard, candied cherry, chocolate and graphite.
Chocolate flavor. The body is medium and the wine is balanced between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are velvety and wide (6 / 6–).
Long is its persistence with a bitter finish (for wood?)
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU MONTLANDRIE 2018 Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux – red
(Grapes: 72% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Ruby red with purple textures.
Olfactory mix of intense aromas of chocolate, cherry, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper and nutmeg.
Flavors of chocolate and cherry can be tasted. The body is medium and the alcohol is exceeded by the acid shoulder. The tannins are sweet, thick, fairly large (5/6), initially thick and then dry the upper gum a little.
Its persistence is long.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU MONTROSE 2018 Saint Estephe – red
(Grapes: 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot)
Purple-red – black robe.
Aromas of mint, eucalyptus, woodsy, plum, cassis, episperm and intense chocolate.
When tasted it shows a medium body and a chocolate flavor. Good taste balance between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are sweet, fairly broad (5/6 +) initially velvety and in the end they make the upper gum dry and burn a little. Its persistence is long with a finish of plum, chocolate, ripe cherry and boisé.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU MOULIN SAINT GEORGES 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc)
Beautiful purple red
Nose composed of scents of licorice, cherry, mild boisé of episperm, cream of milk, black pepper, nutmeg, piece of sacristy, blueberry, plum, incense and mint.
On the palate you can enjoy a nice fruity sensation reminiscent of plum, blueberry, and marascanera cherry.
The body is medium and the acid – alcohol – tannin axis is in equilibrium. The tannins are sweet, thick, fairly large (5/6 +) initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little. Its gustative persistence is long with a fruity finish.
It seemed to me less boisé than the past.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU MOUTON ROTHSCHILD 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc)
Red purple – black
Aromas of chocolate, black marasca cherry, starch (spray starch for ironing), black pepper, nutmeg, licorice, ripe blackberry and incense.
Pleasant sip with cherry and plum flavor. The body is medium and the wine is well balanced. The alcohol is not felt in the least. The tannins are sweet, thick, wide (6 / 6-) and velvety.
Its gustative persistence is long with a boisé finish that also recalls the hard almond shell.
(95-97 / 100)
FUGUE DE NENIN 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 88% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Franc)
He wears purple-red
Olfactory debut with an intense note of graphite marked by cherry, dried tomato, oil paint, mint, eucalyptus and laurel.
The body is just medium enough. Cherry flavor. The wine is well balanced.
The tannins are sweet, not large (4/6 +), initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little. Its persistence with a slightly bitter finish is quite long.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU NENIN 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 63% Merlot and 37% Cabernet Franc)
Bright purple red
Graphite notes, oil paint, light cherry green with incense.
When tasted, the wine has a medium body and has a good balance between alcohol and freshness, while the tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6 +), initially silky and then dried a little in the finish. Its persistence is long with a bitter finish for the wood.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU ORMES DE PEZ 2018 Saint Estephe – red
(Grapes: 50% Merlot, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot)
Beautiful purple red
Range of olfactory sensations with aromas of cherry and fresh plum, pea peel, black pepper, nutmeg, mint, eucalyptus, light sweets from the outside of the candy, blackberry and chocolate.
Palate enthralled by the flavors of intense plum, cherry, cassis. The body is medium and the wine is well balanced. The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5 / 6–) and silky.
Its taste persistence is long.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU ORMES DE PEZ 2018 Saint Estephe – red
(Grapes: 50% Merlot, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot)
Beautiful purple red
Range of olfactory sensations with aromas of cherry and fresh plum, pea peel, black pepper, nutmeg, mint, eucalyptus, light sweets from the outside of the candy, blackberry and chocolate.
Palate enthralled by the flavors of intense plum, cherry, cassis. The body is medium and the wine is well balanced. The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5 / 6–) and silky.
Its taste persistence is long.
(92-94 / 100)
PAGODE DE COS 2018 Saint Estephe – red
(Grapes: 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 6% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple-red – black
On the nose it diffuses aromas of rubber, black pepper, nutmeg, plum, cassis, mint, eucalyptus, licorice, laurel, sage, black maraschino cherry, and vegetable leather (it is the skin that comes close to the sweetness of blond leather) and ends with chocolate caresses.
On the palate it reveals an adequate medium body and flavors of cherry and chocolate.
Wine balanced with alcohol not perceptible thanks to the freshness and tannins.
The latter are sweet, fairly large (5/6 + +) and silky.
Long is its gustatory persistence that does not end up as bitter as it did a few years ago.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU PALMER 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 53% Cabernet Suvignon, 40% Merlot and 7% Petit Verdot)
60,000 produced bottles and the Alter Ego is not produced
Cardinal purple red
Olfactory sensation of fresh plum, box of cigars, black pepper, nutmeg, mint, eucalyptus, candy sweets, cherry, bay leaves, sage, rosemary, chocolate, light enamel paint and dried tomato.
The palate pleasantly overwhelmed by an intense fruity sensation of fresh plum. The body is moderately medium and the wine is perfectly balanced. The tannins are sweet, silky and wide (6 / 6-). Very long is its gustatory persistence with a twisted plum flavor.
Very elegant wine, ready.
(98-100 / 100)
CHÂTEAU PAPE CLEMENT 2018 Pessac Leognan – red
(Grapes: 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple red – black.
The nose evokes aromas of boisé, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg, plum, black maraschino cherry and loose ice cream cone.
The body is medium reinforced. Balanced wine for alcohol and freshness. The tannins are sweet, wide (6/6) initially velvety and then in the end to dry and to make the upper gum burn a little. Its persistence with a boisé finish is long. On the nose it is less boisé than 2015 and 2016.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LE PAPE 2018 Pessac Legnan – red
(Blend: 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Red-purple color – black
Scents of Coccoina glue (coconut milk and almond), mint, eucalyptus, cherry, plum, light black olives, blueberries, bay leaves, rosemary and boisé. On the palate the body is medium enough and the wine is balanced between alcohol and freshness while the tannins are quite wide (5/6 +) initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little. Its persistence is long with a slightly bitter finish perhaps due to new wood (30%).
(89-91 / 100)
PAUILLAC de CHÂTEAU LATOUR 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 56.9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30.8% Merlot and 12.3% Petit Verdot)
Red-purple – black color
From the glass, aromas of cherry, plum, hydrolyzin (a powder that makes natural water carbonated), mint, eucalyptus, coscia pear, cigar box, black pepper, nutmeg, lemongrassa, caoutchouc, chocolate and licorice are spread.
Pleasant sip with plum flavor. The body is medium enough and the wine is balanced. The tannins are sweet, silky, wide (6/6) and elegant.
Its persistence with a plum finish is long.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU PAVIE 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 60% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc and 18% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Intense purple red – black
Aromas of candied cherry, chocolate, mint, cold coffee, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg, plum, licorice and boisé.
On the palate the tannins have the dominion, they are a little intrusive, quite wide (5/6 +), initially velvety to then block and cause the upper gum to burn a little. The body is medium and alcohol is imperceptible, thanks to the freshness.
Long is its persistence with candied cherry, chocolate (Mon Chery) and boisé finish.
It is not easy for me to give evaluations to overripe and too woody wines.
Some people manage to give 100/100 I don’t have these skills.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU PAVIE DECESSE 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc)
Deep purple red robe
Aromas of licorice, mint, eucalyptus, candied cherry and chocolate.
The palate feels the presence of wood that affects the tannins of the wine. The latter are quite wide (5/6), initially velvety and then dry and cause the upper gum to burn. The body is medium and the wine is balanced because the acid shoulder dominates the alcohol. Taste and finish with a long finish, candied cherry and chocolate (Mon Chery).
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU PAVIE – MACQUIN 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 78% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Beautiful purple red color
From the glass, aromas of partially candied cherry, mint, eucalyptus, slight juniper berries, bay leaves and sage emerge.
On the palate it reveals a medium body and flavors of a little candied cherry, sweet pipe and chocolate tobacco.
Balanced wine for alcohol and freshness.
The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5 / 6-) and velvety.
His persistence is long with a final taste of “Mon Chery.”
(88-90 / 100)
LE PAVILLON ROUGE de Chateau Margaux 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 9% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc)
Intense red.
Aromas of plum, mint, eucalyptus, intense black pepper and nutmeg. Followed by notes of dried tomato, blueberry and cassis.
The body is medium just enough and the wine is balanced. The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6) velvety and a little rough.
Its persistence is long with a finish of plums and blueberries. The tannins will refine over time.
(92-94 / 100)
LE PETIT CHEVAL 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Purple red
It offers pleasant aromas of black pepper, nutmeg, cherry, mint, eucalyptus, bay leaf, sage, strawberry and rosemary.
Good sweetness to the taste with perfectly ripe cherry. The body is delicate, it’s more about elegance than about power. Perfectly balanced wine. The tannins are sweet, silky and wide (6/6). Long persistence with cherry and chocolate finish.
(92-94 / 100)
LE PETIT LION 2018 Saint Julien – red
(Grapes: 45% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon and 13% Cabernet Franc)
Cardinal purple red
Olfactory charge made of graphite, black pepper, nutmeg, bay leaves, sage, rosemary, cherry, plum, processed skin and blueberry aromas.
Taste encounter with an emphasis on freshness on alcohol. The body is medium and the tannins are sweet, wide (6 / 6-), thick and velvety. Taste of plum and black marasca cherries that remain during its long taste persistence.
(92-94-100)
LE PETIT MOUTON DE MOUTON ROTHSCHILD 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc)
Intense red – black color
Rich and varied bouquet made of aromas of ripe black marasca cherry, plum with the right ripeness, black pepper, nutmeg, light sacristy furniture, incense, laurel, sage, rosemary, vanilla with final caresses of licorice.
Palate entranced by a pleasant ripe black marasca cherry. The body is medium and the wine is well balanced. The tannins are sweet, thick, wide (6 / 6–) and velvety. Its taste persistence is long. This for me, for what is my experience, is the best Petit Mouton ever made.
(94-96 / 100)
CHÂTEAU PETIT VILLAGE 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 72% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Intense purple red – black
It highlights aromas of ripe cherries, cocoa, mint, eucalyptus, licorice, vegetable leather (it is the skin that tends to the sweetness of leather), black pepper, nutmeg, to end with references of spray starch.
The body is medium enough. Flavors of chocolate and cherry. Balanced wine with tannins that are sweet, fairly large (5 / 6–) and velvety.
Its persistence with a chocolate finish is long.
(89-91 / 100)
LA PETITE EGLISE 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc)
Pretty intense ruby red and purple red color.
Nose made of liquorice scents, intense chocolate, cherry, mint, eucalyptus, and starch, black pepper and nutmeg.
On the palate the body is medium and there are flavors of chocolate and cherry. The wine is balanced with alcohol dominated by freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, fairly large (5/6) and velvety. Its persistence is long with a chocolate and cherry finish.
I called it “very chocolatey” and I didn’t hear the violet.
(90-92 / 100)
PETRUS 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 100% Merlot)
Intense purple-red black dress
Multifaceted nose with aromas of perfectly ripe black marasca cherries, mint, eucalyptus, fine processing leather, oil paint, laurel, sage, iris, red apple, cassis, mild rubber and licorice, graphite and intense chocolate.
Pleasant taste with hints of chocolate and fresh cherry. The body is medium enough and the wine is perfectly balanced thanks to the freshness and tannins.
The latter are fine, elegant, sweet, silky and wide (6 / 6–). Its internal aromatic persistence is very long with a chocolate and fresh cherry finish.
Delicate wine that never ends. For me if he had a little more structure and completely wide tannins he would have reached the maximum score.
(96-98 / 100)
CHÂTEAU DE PEZ 2018 Saint Estephe – red
(Grapes: 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 49% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot)
It dresses intense purple red – black
Olfactory mix of aromas of plums, black pepper, nutmeg, mint, mild rubber, cocoa powder, black marasca cherry and violet.
The body is medium-sized and the wine is balanced while the tannins are sweet, thick, not so large (4/6 + +) and velvety. The flavor of the plum emerges in the end of its long persistence.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU DE PEZ 2018 Saint Estephe – red
(Grapes: 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 49% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot)
It dresses intense purple red – black
Olfactory mix of aromas of plums, black pepper, nutmeg, mint, mild rubber, cocoa powder, black marasca cherry and violet.
The body is medium enough and the wine is balanced while the tannins are sweet, thick, not so large (4/6 + +) and velvety. The flavor of the plum emerges in the end of its long persistence.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU PHELAN SEGUR 2018 Saint Estephe – red
(Grapes: 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot)
Deep purple-red robe – black.
Rich and varied bouquet with aromas of plum, blueberry, cassis, mint, eucalyptus, black maraschino cherry, black pepper, nutmeg, candy confetti, cloves and boisé.
Cassis flavor, The body is medium enough.
Balanced wine with sweet tannins, quite wide (5 / 6-) initially silky and then in the finish dry the upper gum a little.
Long persistence with a slightly boisé finish.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU PIBRAN 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 54% Cabernet Sauvignon and 46% Merlot)
Intense purple red color
Aromatic articulation made up of aromas of chocolate, mint, eucalyptus, worked leather, light black pepper and black olive, cassis, black marasca cherry and plum.
On the palate, fruity sensations of fresh cherry and plum are enjoyed.
The body is medium and the wine is well balanced, thanks to the freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, fairly large (5 / 6–) and velvety. Long taste persistence with plum and chocolate finish.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU PICHON LONGUEVILLE COMTESSE DE LALANDE 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple red – black
From the glass, aromas of black cherry, black pepper, nutmeg, chocolate, cassis and plum emerge.
In the mouth it has a medium body and an excellent balance with alcohol dominated by freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, thick, fairly broad (5/6 + +) and velvety. Long persistence with chocolate and plum finish.
(94-96 / 100)
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU PICHON BARON 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 22% Merlot)
Beautiful deep purple red – black
Bouquet made of scents of licorice, boisè, blackberry, mint, eucalyptus, laurel, sage, rosemary and fine leather.
Very pleasant mouth with a sensation of plum, blueberry and blackberry with perfect ripeness. The body is perfectly medium. Alcohol axis – tannin – freshness in perfect harmony. The tannins are sweet, wide (6-6) and silky. Its gustative persistence is long with a fruity finish. Nice wine!
(97-99 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LA POINTE 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 74% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Franc)
Red purple-black
Olfactory panorama with an intense aroma of candied cherry accompanied by mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg, processed leather, licorice, bay leaves, rosemary, cypress and juniper berries.
The body is just medium enough and the wine has a good balance of taste. The tannins are sweet, wide (6 / 6–) initially velvety to then dry and make the upper gum burn a little. Long is its persistence with candied cherry and chocolate (Mon Chery) finish.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LE PIN 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 100% Merlot)
Pleasant deep purple red – black
From the glass, intense aromas of cherry rise, followed by mint, eucalyptus, laurel, rosemary, warm cloth, chocolate, boisé, oil paint and tomato paste.
The taste is fine and elegant with a chocolate flavor. The body is just medium enough. Well balanced wine with acid-alcohol-tannins in perfect harmony with each other. The tannins are sweet, silky, fine and fairly broad (5/6). Its persistence with a chocolate finish is long.
(96-98 / 100)
CHÂTEAU PONTET – CANET 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple-red – black cloak
Varied nose made of aromas of black pepper, nutmeg, caoutchouc, chocolate, mild manure, cassis, plum, blueberry, mint, eucalyptus, tomato paste, leather in fine tannery processing, small liquorice beans, laurel, sage, rosemary, to finish with black marasca cherry puffs.
On the palate it reveals a medium body and a good balance between freshness and alcohol. The tannins are sweet, wide (6/6) initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little. Its gustative persistence is long with bosié and slightly bitter finish for the wood. The stop in the bottle will improve it, on the nose and on the taste.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU POTENSAC 2018 Medoc – red
(GRAPES: 45% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot)
Attractive purple red.
Bouquet composed in succession of aromas of plum, cherry, mint, eucalyptus, oil paint, light black pepper and nutmeg, chocolate to end with touches of violet.
The taste does not stand out its structure but its pleasant mouth. The body is medium enough and the wine has a good gustative balance with alcohol in sub-tone to freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, wide (6 / 6-) and silky. Flavors of black cherry and plum.
Its gustative persistence is long with a chocolate flavor in addition to the fruity flavor already tasted.
Elegant and pleasant wine.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU POUJEAUX 2018 Moulis – red
(Grapes: 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot)
Red purple – black
Olfactory mix of perfumes of enamel paint, light pear, black pepper, nutmeg, mint and eucalyptus.
The taste has a pleasant fruity sensation, slightly ripe, of cherry and plum.
The body is just medium enough, a wine balanced between freshness and alcohol. The tannins are sweet, wide (6 / 6–) initially velvety to then dry the upper gum. Long persistence with a finish of plum, cherry and boisé.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU PRIEURE LICHINE 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot)
intense purple color
At the olfactory encounter aromas of slightly ripe black marasca cherry, chocolate, mint, eucalyptus, plum, licorice with a slightly boisé finish.
Flavor of cherry, plum, chocolate and boisé.
The body is medium enough and the wine has a good gustative balance even if the tannin is sweet, fairly broad (5/6 +), initially silky, and then in the end dry the upper gum a little.
Its gustative persistence is long with a chocolate finish.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU QUINAULT ENCLOS 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 71.5% Merlot, 14.5% Cabernet Franc and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Beautiful purple red
Olfactory register made of aromas of cherry, mint, eucalyptus, rose, black pepper, nutmeg, blueberry, plum, bay leaf and rosemary.
Mouth enchanted by fruity sensations and intense fresh plum and blueberry. The body is medium and the wine is well balanced with alcohol dominated by freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, silky and fairly broad (5/6 +). Its persistence is long with a fruity finish already tasted.
I wrote: “beautiful finesse and elegance”
(94-96 / 100)
CHÂTEAU RAUZAN GASSIES 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 74% Cabernet Sauvignon and 26% Merlot)
Cardinal’s mantle with an intense heart.
It spreads aromas of wild strawberry, mint, eucalyptus, plum and rosemary.
On tasting, the body is medium enough and the wine is balanced with alcohol dominated by freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, fairly large (5/6) and silky. Its gustative persistence is long with a finish of plum and blueberry.
(90-92 / 100)
RESERVE DE LA COMTESSE 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 53% Cabernet Sauvignon and 42% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc)
Medium purple red.
Hints of plum, mint, eucalyptus, laurel, smoky, light green, rubber, blackberry with a chocolate finish.
Flavor of chocolate and boisè, the body is medium and the wine has a good balance between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are sweet, not very large (4/6 ++) and velvety.
Its gustative persistence is long with a slightly boisé finish.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU ROL VALENTIN 2018 Saint Emilio – red
(Grapes: 75% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Malbec)
Red purple-black color
Aromas of black cherry, unlit candle, plum, black pepper, nutmeg, mint and eucalyptus.
On the palate there is a ripe black cherry, almost cooked, squeezed. The body is medium and the wine is balanced with alcohol in subtone compared to the freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, velvety and fairly broad (5 / 6-).
Its persistence is long with a finish of ripe cherries and chocolate.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU RAOUL 2018 Pessac Leognan – red
(Grapes: 60% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot)
Purple red color
Aromas of boisè, cherry, plum, black pepper and nutmeg.
The body is medium. Balanced wine with sweet tannins, quite wide (5/6) initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little.
Its persistence is long with a slightly bitter and boisé finish, of hard almond shell.
(87-89 / 100)
CHÂTEAU ROUGET 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 85% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple red – black
From the glass emerge aromas of a little candied cherry, intense chocolate, mint, eucalyptus, licorice, black pepper, nutmeg and juniper berry.
On the palate it is perceived a medium body and a chocolate flavor, a well balanced wine between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are sweet, fairly wide (5/6 +) initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little. Long is its persistence with a chocolate finish, followed by mint.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU SAINT – PIERRE DE CORBIAN 2018 Saint Estephe – red
(Grapes: 64% Merlot and 36% Cabernet Sauvignon)
Red-purple – black color
Hints of graphite, plum, boisé cherry, light coscia pear, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper and nutmeg.
Flavors of plum, black marasca cherry. A balanced wine for alcohol and freshness, while the tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6 +), initially velvety and then in the end dry the upper gum. (Too much wood?)
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU SAINTEM SAINTAYME 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 100% Merlot)
Intense purple red color
From the glass there is a slight pungency of alcohol followed by aromas of cherry, chocolate, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper and nutmeg.
Mouth open with a beautiful cherry, even if it is a little ripe and with chocolate.
The body is medium and the wine is balanced.
The tannins are sweet, fairly broad (5/6) and velvety.
Its persistence is long.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU SANCTUS 2018 Saint Emilon – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc)
Bright purple red
Aromas of cherry and plum, squeezed, intense pear, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg with a slight hint of vegetable skin (it comes close to the sweetness of blond leather).
The body is medium to the limit of sufficiency. Fresh cherry and plum flavors. Wine balanced with alcohol dominated by freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, velvety and fairly broad (5 / 6-). Long persistence. Pleasant wine even if it does not have so much structure.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU SIMARD 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon)
It dresses deep purple red – black
Nose characterized by intense spicy aromas of black pepper, nutmeg and cloves, followed by plum, cherry, leather at the end of the tannery, laurel, sage, mint, eucalyptus, mild medicine drawer, sacristy and incense cabinet.
The taste is perceived as a medium body that tends to thin. Chocolate flavor. Wine with good acidity that dominates alcohol. The tannins are sweet, fairly broad (5/6) initially velvety and then dry the upper gum a little. Long persistence with a plum finish.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU SIRAN 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc)
It is dyed deep purple – black
The nose diffuses aromas of enamel paint, chocolate, black maraschino cherry, plum, mint, eucalyptus, licorice, bay leaf and sage.
Pleasant mouth with cherry and chocolate flavor.
The body is medium and the wine is balanced with an imperceptible alcoholic mass. The tannins are sweet, fairly broad (5/6 +), initially velvety and then in the finish they dry the upper gum a little.
Long persistence with chocolate, plum and licorice finish.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU SOUTARD 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 60% Merlot, 31% Cabernet Franc and 7% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Malbec)
Purple red – black dress
Olfactory mix of aromas of a little candied cherry, chocolate, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper and nutmeg.
The taste releases chocolate and candied cherry flavors. The body is medium and the acid-alcohol-tannin axis is in equilibrium. The tannins are large (6/6), sweet, thick, initially silky and then dry the upper gum a little. His persistence with “Mon Chery” is long.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU TALBOT 2018 Saint Julien – red
(Grapes: 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot)
Beautiful deep purple – black
The nose opens with aromas of plum, mint, eucalyptus, cherry, black pepper, nutmeg, blueberry, cassis, bay leaf and rosemary.
Pleasant fruity sip with flavors of plum, blueberry and chocolate. The body is medium and the wine is balanced with freshness and tannins in relief on the alcohol. The tannins are sweet, thick enough (5/6), initially silky and then slightly dry the upper gum.
Its gustative persistence is long with a fruity and pleasant finish.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU DU TERTRE 2018 Margaux – red
(Grapes: 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Franc and 14% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple-red robe – black
Bouquet made of aromas of plum, cherry, chocolate, mint, eucalyptus and slight boisé.
On the palate you can feel a little woody note together with the plum. The body is medium and the wine is balanced between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are sweet, velvety and fairly broad (5/6 +). Its persistence is long with a slightly bitter finish for the wood.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LA TOUR FIGEAC 2018 Sanit Emilion – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc)
Red purple – black
Nose of coscia pear aromas, intense of medicinal herbs, mint, eucalyptus, black pepper, nutmeg, plum and cherry.
The body is just medium enough. Balanced wine with not perceptible alcohol. The tannins are sweet, wide (6 / 6-) initially velvety, in the final they dry the upper gum a little. Long is its persistence with cherry, plum and boisé finish.
(91-93 / 100)
LES TOURELLES DE LONGUEVILLE 2018 Pauillac – red
(Grapes: 66% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc and 6% Petit Verdot)
Intense purple – black.
Nose made of aromas of coscia pear, cherry, light black truffle, mint, eucalyptus, chocolate, bay sage and rosemary.
The body is medium and the wine has a good balance. The tannins are sweet, thick, fairly broad (5 / 6–) and velvety. Its persistence is long with a slightly boisé finish.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU TRONQUOY – LALANDE 2018 Saint Estephe – red
(Grapes: 51% Merlot, 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple-red tone
Olfactory richness made of aromas of black marasca cherries, a little candied, mint, eucalyptus, chocolate, vegetable leather, black pepper, nutmeg, bay leaves, rosemary and plum.
The gustatory examination shows flavors of chocolate and candied cherry. The body is medium.
Balanced wine with acid shoulder and tannins that dominate the alcoholic mass. The tannins are sweet, fairly broad (5/6) and velvety.
Its gustative persistence is long with candied cherries and chocolate reminiscent of the “Mon Chery” chocolate.
Pleasant wine but, for me a bit evolved. 2016 is at another level.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU VALANDRAUD 2018 Saint Emilion – red
(Grapes: 90% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Malbec)
It dresses intense purple red – black
Intense mint fragrance (reminiscent of the After Eight) followed by eucalyptus, laurel, sage, rosemary, warm bread and cherry.
On the palate the body is medium and the wine, for alcohol, is balanced. The tannins are sweet, fairly large (5/6), initially velvety to then dry and burn the upper gum. Long persistence with chocolate and mint finish (After Eight).
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU VAL DE ROC 2018 Bordeaux Superior – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc)
Intense purple red – black
Olfactory mix made of chocolate aromas, a little candied cherry, mint, eucalyptus, tannery skin at the end of processing, boisè, sweet confetti, to end with lavender caresses.
The body is medium enough. Wine balanced between alcohol and freshness. The tannins are sweet, quite wide (5/6 +) initially silky to dry the upper gum a little. Its persistence is long.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU VIEUX CHATEAU CERTAN 2018 Pomerol – red
(Grapes: 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc)
Intense ruby red color
Bewitching nose with various aromas of cherry, leather at the end of the tannery, mint, eucalyptus, chocolate, light black pepper, nutmeg, cypress, rosemary, caoutchouc, tomato paste, to finish with hints of Indian ink.
In the mouth it is a triumph of pleasantness with a crunchy cherry flavor. The body is medium and the wine is perfectly balanced with alcohol dominated by freshness and tannins. The latter are sweet, silky, thick and wide (6/6). Its persistence with a chocolate finish is long.
I didn’t feel the floral note of violet.
(97-99 / 100)
AILE D’ARGENT MOUTON ROTHSCHILD 2018 Pauillc – white
(Grapes: 55% Sauvignon and 45% Sémillon)
Straw yellow with green reflections
The olfactory approach highlights aromas of hawthorn, white pepper, mint, white peach, mineral, brackish to end with boisé and episperm tones (second skin of boiled chestnuts)
On the palate it is a triumph of pleasantness with flavors of yellow grapefruit and salt.
The body is medium and the wine is perfectly balanced with the freshness and the mineral that dominate the alcohol. Its taste persistence is long.
This 2018 and 2017 are the best ever made. The wine did not make malolactic fermentation.
(94-96 / 100)
CHATEAU CARBONNIEUX 2018 Pessac Leognan – white
(Grapes: 65% Sauvignon and 35% Sémillon)
Straw yellow with green reflections.
Nose with aromas of hawthorn, lemon, mint, eucalyptus, blond leather and iodine.
On the palate it is a bit flat, with a medium body, to the limit of sufficiency, which is sustained by freshness. Subtle alcohol and long taste persistence thanks to the lemon sensation that looks a little pushed. In the final I felt a bitter note reminiscent of rhubarb root. (boisé?).
(86-88 / 100)
DOMAINE DE CHEVALIER 2018 Pessac Legnan – white
(GRAPES: 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Sémillon)
Beautiful straw yellow.
The nose lavishes aromas of hawthorn, yellow peach, light boisè, lemon, white pepper, smoked, williams pear, to end with puffs of episperm.
On the palate it has flavors of lemon, boisé and salt. The body is medium enough supported by freshness. Balanced wine with the freshness that dominates the alcoholic mass. Its persistence is long with a finish of lemon and salt.
(93-95 / 100)
LA CLARTE ‘DE HAUT – BRION 2018 Pessac Leognan – white
(Grapes: 79.2% Sémillon and 20.8% Sauvignon)
Straw yellow with green reflections
On the nose it evokes scents of episperm (second skin of boiled chestnuts), hawthorn, white pepper, mint, mint leaf, tomato leaf, Marseille, lemon and brackish.
On the palate it is sapid and mineral. The body is medium enough. Balanced wine with imperceptible alcohol. Long persistence with salt and lemon at the end.
The acidity is there even if the lemon flavor is not very evident.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU COUHINS 2018 Pessac Leognan – white
(GRAPES: 96% Sauvignon Blanc and 4% Sauvignon Gris)
It is straw yellow in color with gray overlays.
Nose made of scents of salt, lemon, boisé and mild williams pear.
The exuberant note of the lemon feels to the taste. Savory wine with medium body supported by salt and freshness. Alcohol is not perceptible. Its persistence is long with an overflowing lemon and salt finish.
(87-89 / 100)
CHÂTEAU COS D’ESTOURNEL 2018 Saint Estephe- white
(Grapes: 67% Sauvignon Blanc, 33 Sémillon)
Straw yellow color with green reflections.
Olfactory luggage made of scents of graphite, hawthorn, episperm, mint, woodsy, caoutchouc and Marseille soap.
Very savory on the palate. The body is medium. Lemon flavor. Wine with rich acidity that together with the flavor do not make you perceive the alcohol. Its persistence is long. Good wine!
(94-96 / 100)
CHÂTEAU FERRANDE 2018 Pessac Leognan – white
(Grapes: 40% Sémillon, 30% Sauvignon Gris, 30% Sauvignon Blanc)
Straw yellow with green highlights.
The glass releases aromas of hawthorn, boisè, mint, white pepper and Marseille soap.
The body is just medium enough and the wine for alcohol is balanced thanks to the superior freshness.
Fairly persistent. Too much salt.
(85-87 / 100)
CHÂTEAU HAUT BERGEY 2018 Pessac – Leognan – white
(Grapes: 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Sémillon)
Straw yellow color with green reflections.
Aromatic imprint made of aromas of mint, eucalyptus, hawthorn, episperm, mild white pepper and homemade ice cream cone.
Taste characterized by an intense lemon flavor that spreads throughout the oral cavity, accompanied by boisè and salt. The body is medium and the alcohol is imperceptible. Its persistence with lemon flavor is long. The lemon is a little too present and slightly attacks the upper gum.
(87-89 / 100)
CHÂTEAU HAUT BRION 2018 Pessac Leognan – white
(Grapes: 80.6% Sauvignon and 19.4% Sémillon)
It’s straw yellow with green reflections.
The olfactory profile opens with an intense scent of episperm, white pepper, lemon, brackish, blond leather, tomato leaf, mint leaf and Marseille soap.
On the palate one perceives a sufficient average structure. The wine is well balanced and tastes of salt and lemon.
Its persistence with a lemon finish is long. For salt and lemon it reminds me of 2015, which however had more structure.
(94-96 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LARRIVET HAUT- BRION 2018 Pessac Legnan – white
(Grapes: 75% Sauvignon and 25% Sémillon)
Straw yellow with gray reflections. Hints of salt, hawthorn, lemon, williams pear with a sweet finish of episperm (second skin of boiled chestnut)
On the palate it is richly sapid, with a lemon flavor.
The body is medium but goes a little way.
Balanced wine with the freshness that dominates the alcoholic mass. Its persistence with lemon and salt finish is quite long.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LATOUR MARTILLAC 2018 Pessac Leognan – white
(Grapes: 54% Sauvignon and 46% Sémillon)
Straw yellow with green reflections.
Nose marked by woody, mint, lemon, intense notes of yellow peach, hawthorn, episperm, mint and eucalyptus.
On the palate the wine has a medium body and is balanced. Flavors of yellow grapefruit, cedar, lemon and salt that take the whole oral cavity.
The taste persistence is long.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LYNCH BAGES BLANC 2018 Pauillac – white
(Grapes: 59% Sauvignon Blanc, 21% Sémillon and 20% Muscadelle)
Straw yellow with gray reflections. Nose not particularly open and varied. Scents of hawthorn, mint and eucalyptus.
The taste of salt is immediate on the palate followed by a slight citrus lemon note.
The body is medium and the wine is well balanced. Its gustative persistence is long with a finish of lemon and episperm (second skin of boiled chestnut)
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LESPAULT MARTILLAC 2018 Pessac – Legnan – white
(Grapes: 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Semillon)
Light straw yellow with gray tones.
Aromas of hawthorn, lemon, white pepper and yellow grapefruit.
The taste is sapid, mineral and citrusy with lemon. Wine with rich acidity that dominates alcohol. The body is medium enough. Its persistence is long with a finish of lemon yellow grapefruit and salt.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LA LOUVIERE 2018 Pessac Leognan – white
(Grapes: 100% Sauvignon)
Straw yellow with green and gray reflections.
The nose expresses aromas of hawthorn, mint, eucalyptus, episperm and lemon.
The body is medium enough but gets naked and leaves room for freshness with a lemon flavor. Wine balanced with imperceptible alcohol.
Its persistence is long with a finish of lemon and salt.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU MALARTIC LAGRAVIERE 2018 Pessac Leognan – white
(Grapes: 90% Sauvignon and 10% Sémillon)
Straw yellow
Nose characterized by aromas of hawthorn, mint leaf, tomato leaf, pepper
white, mint and pear williams. On the palate, intense sensations of lemon are perceived followed by salt. Wine with medium body and well balanced. Its persistence is long with a finish of salt and lemon.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LA MISSION HAUT- BRION 2018 Pessac Leognan – white
(Grapes: 57.4% Sauvignon and 42.6% Sémillon)
Straw yellow with green reflections
Bouquet of scents of episperm, mint, white pepper, salt, mint leaf, tomato leaf, warm cloth with starch, marseille soap, iodine, hawthorn and lemon.
Sip characterized by flavor and taste of episperm and lemon. The lemon on the upper gum is felt. Lemon and salt are in evidence throughout the oral cavity. The body is medium. Balanced wine. Its taste persistence is long.
(93-95 / 100)
CHÂTEAU MONBOUSQUET 2018 Saint Emilion – white
(Grapes: 60% Sauvignon Blanc, 30% Sauvignon Gris, 5% Sémillon and 5% Muscadelle)
Straw yellow with green and gray reflections.
The nose expresses floral and hawthorn aromas, Coccoina glue (coconut milk and almond), mint, fresh celery, nail polish, white pepper, rue leaf and tomato leaf.
On the palate it is richly sapid and mineral and has a medium body. A balanced wine with an alcohol not perceptible due to its freshness, flavor and minerality. Its persistence is long with a finish of salt and lemon.
The presence of wood is acceptable, thinking that it will lose a little.
(92-94 / 100)
PAGODES DE COS 2018 Saint Estephe – white
(Grapes: 93% Sauvignon Blanc and 7% Sémillon)
Clear straw yellow with green reflections.
Olfactory kit made of aromas of hawthorn, episperm, Marseille soap, mint, fresh celery, rubber, eucalyptus and brackish.
Sapid, mineral and citrusy palate with flavors of lemon and yellow grapefruit.
The body is medium enough and the wine is well balanced. Thanks to the freshness of minerality and flavor, the alcohol is inoffensive.
Its gustative persistence is long with a citrusy finish.
(92-94 / 100)
CHÂTEAU PAPE CLEMENT 2018 Pessac Leognan – white
(Grapes: 55% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Sémillon and 5% Muscadelle)
Straw yellow color with green reflections
Olfactory casket made of episperm fragrances, white pepper, hawthorn, woodsy, Marseille soap, mint and eucalyptus.
On the palate the body is medium enough and the salt and lemon that are felt spread throughout the oral cavity.
Balanced wine with long taste persistence.
(92-94 / 100)
LE PAVILLON BLANC de Chateau Margaux 2018 Margaux – white
(Grapes: 100% Sauvignon Blanc)
Straw yellow with gray reflections.
The olfactory approach reveals aromas of hawthorn, white pepper, mint, eucalyptus, episperm (sweet of the second skin of boiled chestnut), boisè, lemon and mint.
The taste of lemon is highlighted on the palate accompanied by salt.
The body is medium and the wine is well balanced, the alcohol is not perceptible. Long is its persistence with lemon flavor that persists since its entry into the mouth.
(93-95 / 100)
CHÂTEAU RAOUL 2018 Pessac Leognan – white
(Grapes: 77% Sémillon and 23% Sauvignon Blanc)
Straw yellow dress with green highlights.
On the nose a little lazy, you can smell aromas of yeast, lemon, mint, eucalyptus and slight notes reminiscent of the episperm.
The taste does not have so much structure and has flavors of boisé, lemon and salt.
Balanced wine for alcohol. Its persistence is long. You can feel the citrus note and then a slight salt.
(86-88 / 100)
“S” DE SUDUIRAUT VIEILLE VIGNES 2018 – white
(Grapes: 60% Sémillon and 40% Sauvignon Blanc)
It is straw yellow in color with gray overlays.
The nose is a bit lazy. There are scents of nail polish, hawthorn, mint and oil paint.
The body is just medium enough. Salt, lemon and mineral flavors.
Wine balanced with freshness in evidence on alcohol. Its persistence is long with a finish of salt.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU HAUT BERGEY 2018 Pessac – Leognan – white
(Grapes: 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Sémillon)
Straw yellow color with green reflections.
Aromatic imprint made of aromas of mint, eucalyptus, hawthorn, episperm, mild white pepper and homemade ice cream cone.
Taste characterized by an intense lemon flavor that spreads throughout the oral cavity, accompanied by boisè and salt. The body is medium and the alcohol is imperceptible. Its persistence with lemon flavor is long. The lemon is a little too present and slightly attacks the upper gum.
(87-89 / 100)
CHÂTEAU COUTET 2018 Barsac
(Grapes: 75% Sémillon, 20% Sauvignon and 5% Muscadelle)
Dressed in golden yellow with green highlights
Bouquet with aromas of honey, dried apricot, mild hawthorn, white pepper and starch.
On the palate it has a medium body and is balanced with the freshness that dominates the alcoholic mass. Flavor of slightly bitter orange jam and amaretto. Its taste persistence is long. Wine not cloying like other wines because it has good acidity and slightly bitter sensations that soften sweetness.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU HAUT – PEYRAGUEY 2018 Sauternes
(Grapes: 97% Sémillon and 3% Sauvignon)
Beautiful golden yellow
Olfactory casket made of mint, brewer’s yeast, hard almond shell, orange jam and orange peel.
The taste of honey dominates the taste. The body is medium and the wine is not perfectly balanced as alcohol and freshness alternate on the dominance of one over the other.
Its persistence is long with a trail of intense honey.
He lacks a bit of acidity with the taste of an amary note necessary to dampen the sickly sweetness.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU DOISY DAENE 2018 Sauternes
(Grapes: 100% Sémillon)
Beautiful golden yellow with green reflections.
Reminiscent of mint, brewer’s yeast, champignon mushroom, eucalyptus, dried apricot and hawthorn.
At the gustatory entrance you can feel a little sweet sensations of honey followed by dried apricot, a bit of green that softens the sweetness a little. The body is medium and the wine is balanced with the freshness that dominates the alcoholic mass. Its persistence is long with a dried apricot finish.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU DOISY VEDRINES 2018 Sauternes
(Grapes: 87% Sémillon and 13% Sauvignon)
Golden yellow robe with green reflections
Nose on a generous background of hawthorn followed by the hard shell of almond, mint and honey.
On the palate the honey spreads compactly throughout the mouth. Dried date flavor. The body is medium and the wine has a good balance of taste. Its gustative persistence is long with a final of honey and dry date.
He lacks the bitter note and a little more freshness.
(90-92 / 100)
CHÂTEAU FILHOT 2018 Sauternes
(Grapes: 50% Sémillon, 40% Sauvignon Blanc and 10% Muscadelle)
Golden yellow with light green reflections
Aromatic impression of trichlorethylene, mint, light white pepper, white flowers, hawthorn, mild honey and saffron.
The taste feels the mild trichlorethylene, already felt in the nose and honey. The body is medium enough. Fairly balanced wine with a slight up and down effect between alcohol and freshness.
Its persistence is long with an apricot jam finish.
(87-89 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LAFAURIE PEYRAGUEY 2018 Sauternes
(Grapes: 95% Sémillon and 5% Sauvignon Blanc)
Beautiful golden yellow with green reflections.
Nose made of aromas of honey, brewer’s yeast, hard almond shell, dried apricot, yellow flowers and mint.
On the palate the honeyy sweetness is not enough, not mitigated by a good acidity. The body is medium and the balance is a little fluctuating between alcohol and freshness.
Its gustative persistence is long with a honey finish and a slight caramel finish.
I think he needed more acidity and a bitter orange jam taste.
(87-89 / 100)
CHÂTEAU DE MALLE 2018 Sauternes
(Grapes: 59% Sémillon, 40% Sauvignon Blanc and 1% Muscadelle)
Golden yellow with green reflections
On the nose it diffuses aromas of hops, mint and hard almond shell.
Very sweet taste of dried apricot and honey. The body is medium and the wine is well balanced. Its persistence is long with a dried apricot finish.
The wine lacks a little acidity and bitter sensations in the taste to mitigate the sweetness.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU RAYNE VIGNEAU 2018 Sauternes
(Grapes: 78% Sémillon, 20 Sauvignon and 2% Muscadelle)
Dressed in golden yellow with green highlights
Aromatic imprint made of aromas of honey, dried apricot, mint and dry date.
On the palate the body is medium and the honey is evident. A little swinging balance between alcohol and freshness. Its persistence is long with continuation of the myeloma trail. I think it lacks a bit of acidity and bitter sensations that diminish its sweetness.
(87-89 / 100)
CHÂTEAU RIEUSSEUC 2018 Sauternes
(Grapes: 75% Sémillon, 25% Sauvignon)
Golden yellow coat with green reflections
Scents of brewer’s yeast, honey, dry date, hawthorn, white pepper and mint.
On the palate the body is medium, compact, with a taste of honey. Wine with fluctuating balance between alcohol and freshness. Its persistence with honey is long.
Even this wine would have needed more freshness and a bitter taste. Better on the nose than on the taste.
(89-91 / 100)
CHÂTEAU SIGALAS RABAUD 2018 Sauternes
(Grapes: 85% Sémillon and 15% Sauvignon Blanc)
Light gold with green reflections
It evokes aromas of hawthorn, mint, white pepper, honey, hard almond shell, white pepper and hops.
Mouth with intense sensation of honey.
The body is medium and the wine has a slightly up and down balance between alcohol and freshness,
Its persistence is long with an orange jam finish.
He would have needed more freshness and well-known taste amarines.
(88-90 / 100)
CHÂTEAU SUDUIRAUT 2018 Sauternes
(Grapes: 100% Sémillon)
Golden yellow
The olfactory efficacy shows aromas of bitter orange jam, light honey, dried apricot to finish with caramel whispers.
On the palate it has a medium body, a sweetness but not cloying and a good balance of taste with sufficient freshness so as not to feel alcoholic pungency. Its persistence is long with a slightly sweet finish. The wine would have needed more freshness and a note of bitter orange jam to soften the sweet note a little.
(91-93 / 100)
CHÂTEAU LA TOUR BLANCHE 2018 Sauternes
(Grapes: 80% Sémillon, 10% Sauvignon and 10% Muscadelle)
Golden yellow with green reflections
It expresses a beautiful interpenetration of aromas with hints of honey, orange jam, brewer’s yeast, chamomile, dry date, white pepper and dried apricot.
The taste is very sweet, the body is medium concentrated. Balanced wine for the alcohol that is not perceived. Its persistence with a honey finish is long.
It is a bit cloying because it lacks the bitter note that softens sweetness.
(88-90 / 100)
