PRE-ORDER
2014 | JS 92
The 2014 is noted for its soft, round texture, showing dark fruits, flowers, and earthy nuances, with recent vintages showing improvements in freshness from reduced new oak usage.
2015 | JS 95
Deep ruby color with purple tinges. Aromas of dark and red fruits, cocoa, vanilla, fresh tobacco, and floral notes such as violet and lilac. Fresh attack with silky mouth-filling texture. Tannins round and supple. The finish lingers beautifully with a pleasant salty note.2016 | WA 96
The 2016 vintage (95% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc) is recognized for its deep,, fleshy, and "sexy" profile, yet it retains a structured, mineral-laced finish. It features aroma
2017 | WA 93
With an impeccable balance between fruit, complexity and aromatic length, this wine is characterized by a sophisticated minerality, consistent from year to year, with soft and supple tannins and a velvety texture. It is made from the estate's oldest vines, meticulously hand-farmed using organic and biodynamic practices to bring out the finest quality in each cluster. Predominantly Merlot, the blend includes just enough Cabernet Franc to imbue the wine with an elegant tannic structure.
2018 | WA 95
With an impeccable balance between fruit, complexity, and aromatic length, this wine is characterized by a sophisticated minerality, consistent from year to year, with soft and supple tannins and a velvety texture. It is made from the estate's oldest vines, meticulously hand-farmed using organic and biodynamic practices to bring out the finest quality in each cluster. Predominantly Merlot, the blend includes just enough Cabernet Franc to imbue the wine with an elegant tannic structure.
2019 | D 95
Intense ruby with bold purplish tints. Floral hints, blackberry and cherry aromatic scents, lightly spiced by the subtle presence of fresh citrus. Powerful attack with a silky and fresh mouthfeel. Generous tannins are supported by a light and graceful mineral and salt finale.
2020 | WA 93-95
The 2020 Château Fonplégade is a 100% certified biodynamic Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, showcasing a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. It offers a vibrant, aromatic profile of red/black cherries, violet, and graphite, with velvety tannins, balanced acidity, and a distinctive mineral, chalky finish.
2021 | V 93
Described as a "very pretty, delicate Saint-Émilion" with notes of spice, tobacco, and mocha.
About Winery
Château Fonplégade, a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé, boasts a rich history rooted in its unique terroir and dedication to quality winemaking. The name, meaning "fountain of plenty," originates from a 13th-century fountain on the property that still provides water to the vines in dry years. The estate has been producing wine since the late 1500s, and in 1852, wine merchant Jean-Pierre Beylot purchased it, building the elegant château that stands today. In 2004, Denise and Stephen Adams acquired the estate and have since revitalized the vineyards, renovated the cellar, and restored the château, with a focus on organic and biodynamic farming.
PRE-ORDER
2016 WA | 95
Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2016 Gazin features a beautifully perfumed nose of violets, Ceylon tea, cigar box, sandalwood and fallen leaves over a core of plum preserves, kirsch and blackberry preserves plus a waft of aniseed. Medium-bodied and elegant, with compelling restraint, it has a seductively plush texture, finishing with bags of poise, perfume and persistence.
2017 | JS 94
Blueberry and plum aromas here with some flowers and hot stones, too. Complex. Medium body. Juicy fruit in the center palate. Soft, refined tannins and fresh acidity. Lovely complexity and focus.
2018 | JD 97
A brilliant nose of blueberries, candied cherries, wildflowers, tobacco, chocolate, and spice gives way to a stunning Pomerol with full-bodied richness, a layered, seamless texture, ultra-fine tannins, and a great finish. This plush, sexy, opulent Pomerol does everything right.
2019 | V 97
The 2019 has a beguiling bouquet with red berry fruit, truffle and light Provençal herb scents that are beautifully defined. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins. This is exquisite in terms of balance, silky smooth, building gradually with a harmonious and quite effortless finish. Divine - this is a stellar showing. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting.
2020 | JS 96
Lovely texture to this Pomerol. Fine velvety tannins with plum, walnut and crushed stone character. Savory finish. Needs time to soften. Very classy and structured, yet so refined.
2021 | V 95
The 2021 Gazin is a dark, ample wine. Layers of dark fruit, leather, licorice, smoke, tobacco and spice unfurl in the glass. Broad and powerful, the 2021 is super-impressive in this tasting. If there is a name to watch in Pomerol, it is Gazin.
About Winery
The Chateau Gazin vineyards cover 64.2 acres in a single lot, with 56.8 acres under vines, located on the renowned clay-gravel plateau of Pomerol. The estate can produce up to 100,000 bottles a year. A second AOC Pomerol wine "l’Hospitalet de Gazin", was created in 1986 in order to reserve the best of the harvest for Chateau Gazin.
The grapes are fermented in small cement vats. The wine is aged for 18 months in oak barrels (50% new) according to the Bordeaux tradition: malolactic fermentation in casks, rackings to separate the fine wine from the lees, fining with egg whites and, if necessary, light filtration.
2011 | WE 90
"More restrained, with redcurrant, plum, cocoa, and cedar. Critics generally rated it around 89–90 points, making it a lighter, earlier-drinking vintage."
2014 | JD 92
"Balanced and elegant, with black fruit and silky tannins. Scores around 91 points reflect solid quality but not a blockbuster."
2015 | JS 97
"A standout modern vintage, with 97 points from James Suckling and 95 from Jeb Dunnuck. Rich, concentrated, with cassis, graphite, and forest floor notes. Excellent aging potential."
About Winery
The Chateau Gazin vineyards cover 64.2 acres in a single lot, with 56.8 acres under vines, located on the renowned clay-gravel plateau of Pomerol. The estate can produce up to 100,000 bottles a year. A second AOC Pomerol wine "l’Hospitalet de Gazin", was created in 1986 in order to reserve the best of the harvest for Chateau Gazin.
The grapes are fermented in small cement vats. The wine is aged for 18 months in oak barrels (50% new) according to the Bordeaux tradition: malolactic fermentation in casks, rackings to separate the fine wine from the lees, fining with egg whites and, if necessary, light filtration.
PRE-ORDER
About Winery
Located on a beautiful 300 hectare estate, the 83 hectare Giscours vineyard is located in the famous Margaux appellation. Though the estate was first mentioned in a document dating back to 1330, it was not until 1847 that Count de Pescatore laid the cornerstone of the remarkable chateau that now overlooks the vines. Giscours' quality was confirmed by its inclusion as a Third Growth in the 1855 classification.
The estate was purchased by Nicolas Tari after World War II. He made major investments in modernizing Giscours. In 1995, Eric Albada Jelgersma acquired the right to grow vines and make wine on the estate. He continues to lavish the care and attention that are necessary to maintain Giscours' standing as a world-famous great growth.
PRE-ORDER
About Winery
Located on a beautiful 300 hectare estate, the 83 hectare Giscours vineyard is located in the famous Margaux appellation. Though the estate was first mentioned in a document dating back to 1330, it was not until 1847 that Count de Pescatore laid the cornerstone of the remarkable chateau that now overlooks the vines. Giscours' quality was confirmed by its inclusion as a Third Growth in the 1855 classification.
The estate was purchased by Nicolas Tari after World War II. He made major investments in modernizing Giscours. In 1995, Eric Albada Jelgersma acquired the right to grow vines and make wine on the estate. He continues to lavish the care and attention that are necessary to maintain Giscours' standing as a world-famous great growth.
PRE-ORDER
About Winery
Château Gloria is a renowned Saint-Julien winery in Bordeaux, France, known for its high-quality wines despite not being part of the 1855 official classification. Founded in the 1940s by Henri Martin, it stands out for its unique origin story: Martin gradually acquired plots from various classified growths to create his vineyard. The winery encompasses 50 hectares of vines, primarily planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot.
PRE-ORDER
2012 | WE 93
his concentrated wine is packed with new wood as well as dark chocolate flavors. The palate is dense with bitter, extracted coffee flavors, but balanced by lively, lingering acidity.
2014 | V 92
Praised for its aromatic complexity of redcurrants, truffle, and vibrant structure.
2015 | WE 94
Dense tannins are balanced by rich black-fruit flavors. The attractive and stylish wine shows the generous nature of the vintage.
2016 | JD 93
The 2016 Château Grand Corbin (Saint-Émilion Grand Cru) is highly regarded as a strong value, high-quality wine from a standout Bordeaux vintage. It is often praised for its deep color, elegant tannin structure, and potential for aging.
2018 | WE 92
Powerful fruits and tannins show densely in this concentrated wine. It is all about structured black fruits that are still young and vibrant with freshness among the ripe flavors. The wine needs to smooth out, so wait until 2024.
2019 | WE 92
Surprisingly soft tannins are already integrated into the generous black fruits and ripe texture of this full-bodied wine. Its richness along with the black currant flavors are balance by the juicy acidity that cuts through into the finish.
2020 | V 95
The 2020 is a blend of mostly Merlot, characterized by deep ruby/purple colors, intense fruit, and a blend of savory notes.
2021 | JS 91
A fresh, elegant, and medium-bodied vintage with red fruit, spicy oak, and firm tannins. It is widely considered a successful, approachable effort for the year, often priced as a good value within the appellation.
About Winery
Château Grand Corbin, located in Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century, with documented ties to the land even earlier. Initially, the estate was part of the Corbin seigneurie and later expanded in 1852. In 2012, Château Haut Corbin was merged into Château Grand Corbin, creating a larger estate. The Despagne family has been associated with the land since at least the 16th century, with Louis Despagne acquiring initial plots in 1812. The estate was recognized as a Grand Cru Classé during the 2006 Saint-Émilion classification.
PRE-ORDER
About Winery
Château Grand Corbin, located in Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century, with documented ties to the land even earlier. Initially, the estate was part of the Corbin seigneurie and later expanded in 1852. In 2012, Château Haut Corbin was merged into Château Grand Corbin, creating a larger estate. The Despagne family has been associated with the land since at least the 16th century, with Louis Despagne acquiring initial plots in 1812. The estate was recognized as a Grand Cru Classé during the 2006 Saint-Émilion classification.
PRE-ORDER
2017 | V 92
The 2017 is described as a "lighter" but very refined style of Grand Mayne compared to earlier, heavier, or more recent, more powerful vintages.
2018 | V 94
Intense blackberry, cherry, crushed stone, licorice, and violet notes. Medium to full-bodied, with high-quality, chewy tannins and bright acidity.
2020 | WA 93-95
Concentrated, refined, and aromatic, with "dark red cherry, plum, spice, new leather, cedar, and mocha".
2021 | D 93
Medium-bodied, balanced, and fresh, reflecting a challenging vintage with high acidity and lower alcohol. Shows red fruit (strawberry, raspberry), citrus notes, and silky tannins.
About Winery
Château Grand Corbin, located in Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century, with documented ties to the land even earlier. Initially, the estate was part of the Corbin seigneurie and later expanded in 1852. In 2012, Château Haut Corbin was merged into Château Grand Corbin, creating a larger estate. The Despagne family has been associated with the land since at least the 16th century, with Louis Despagne acquiring initial plots in 1812. The estate was recognized as a Grand Cru Classé during the 2006 Saint-Émilion classification.
PRE-ORDER
2016 | WE 93
Medium-bodied, polished tannins, and a "classic" Pauillac profile with savory notes of cedarwood, blackcurrant, and tobacco.
2017 | WE 94
Medium-bodied, balanced, and vibrant with high acidity and fine, somewhat dry tannins.
2018 | WE 94
Dense with tannins and vivid with black fruits
2019 | JS 95
Intense notes of black plum, cassis, cedar, and graphite with firm structure.
2020 | JS 96
Red fruit, graphite, mint, tobacco, and chocolate. Rich, structured, and muscular with ripe tannins.
2021 | WE 94
A deep, savory profile with notes of cedar, cassis, and black cherry, backed by a strong mineral or saline edge.
About WineryChâteau Grand-Puy Ducasse, a 5ème Cru Classé estate in Pauillac, has a history dating back to the 17th century. Initially established by Arnaud Ducasse, the estate remained in the Ducasse family for nearly three centuries. Significant expansion and development occurred in the 18th century under Pierre Ducasse, including the construction of the current château in 1820. The estate was later classified as a fifth growth in the 1855 classification. Ownership changed hands in the 20th century, with new partners revitalizing the estate and modernizing the winery and vineyards. Today, the estate is owned by CA Grands Crus, a subsidiary of the Crédit Agricole Group, and is known for its focus on quality and sustainability.
PRE-ORDER
2017 | D 94
The wine is noted for its "frisky and fresh" character, providing a "juicy core" of blackcurrants and moderate tannins.
2018 | V 96
The 2018 vintage is noted for being "bright and full of juice, prioritising vibrancy over power". It is a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant blend with a "slightly chewy" structure that balances ripe fruit with a refreshing, earthy finish.
2020 | JS 97
The 2020 blend is 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Merlot. It is described as a "tightly coiled" and "sophisticated" wine with intense cassis, damson plum, and savory graphite notes.
2021 | JS 95
A classic Bordeaux, described as "bright and punchy" with a "cool" and "savory" style, returning to a more traditional, restrained structure compared to warmer years.
About Winery5th classified growth in 1855. The name of Grand-Puy comes from the old expression "puy" which means "hill, little hill", and this land is mentioned in documents dating from the Middle Ages. Indeed, the vineyard extends on one of the ridges of land which were made the first wines of the Medoc. Since the sixteenth century, the thought has passed from generation to generation and, by way of alliances between families, he stayed within the same descent until 1920, before resuming a destiny with Borie family in 1978. Under the leadership of François-Xavier Borie (Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou), GP Lacoste is the perfect example of a classic Pauillac, tannic and full bodied. A wine for keeping, which makes part of the top of the Medoc wines.
PRE-ORDER
About Winery
Château Gruaud Larose, located in Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, is a prestigious estate known for its full-bodied, long-lived red wines. It's a 2ème Cru Classé (Second Growth) producer, emphasizing complexity and aging potential in its wines. The estate is particularly noted for its single block vineyard of 82 hectares, meticulously maintained and planted with a high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon.
PRE-ORDER
About Winery
A Premier Grand Cru Classé from Sauternes, seductive in its finesse and aromatic richnessThe property. "La Maison Noble du Bayle", the first name of Château Guiraud was owned by the Mons de Saint Poly family. In 1766, Pierre Guiraud, a Bordeaux merchant, acquired it. In 80 years and three generations, Château Guiraud has become a prestigious name, recognized in 1855 as a 1st Grand Cru Classé from Sauternes.
Taken over in 2006 by four personalities (an industrialist, Robert Peugeot, and three winemakers, Olivier Bernard, Stephan Von Neipperg, and Xavier Planty), Château Guiraud is an essential label.
The vineyard
This illustrious Sauternes property comes from an 85-hectare vineyard resting on sandy gravel soils (80%) and clayey gravel soils (20%). Nestled in a haven of biodiversity, the vines, averaging 35 years old, have been farmed organically since 1996.
PRE-ORDER
2017 | WE 95
Medium-bodied, balanced with ripe, grainy tannins and a long, fresh finish.
2019 | JS 99
Extremely aromatic, with incredible wet-earth, bark, stone and graphite notes on the nose, then changing to violets, blackberries and blackcurrants. Full-bodied, yet so linear and fine, with titanium tannins that go on so long. Builds and builds then just rolls around the palate through the endless finish.
2020 | JS 100
This has incredible power and drive with blackberry, black olive and graphite.
2021 | JS 97
The 2021 shows great tension, mineral, and silky tannins, with a medium-bodied, poised, and fresh character.
About Winery
Château Haut-Bailly, a Grand Cru Classé de Graves, boasts a rich history dating back to the 16th century. Originally planted by the Goyanèche family, it gained prominence in the 17th century under Firmin Le Bailly, who gave the estate its name. Subsequent owners, including Alcide Bellot des Minières, significantly enhanced its reputation and production techniques. The modern era began in 1998 with Robert G. Wilmers's acquisition and investment, solidifying its status as a leading Bordeaux estate.
PRE-ORDER
2011 | JS 92
Known for its elegance, fine tannins, and a more accessible, lighter-footed structure than some neighboring Pauillacs.
2014 | JS 93
Notes of plum, cassis, tobacco, and mineral
2017 | V 94
The 2017 vintage is noted for being a "charming" and "fresh" year rather than a blockbuster, produced under the ownership of the Cazes family.
2018 | WS 94
Rich, medium to full-bodied with structured tannins and a long, savory finish.
2019 | JS 95
A blend characterized by high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon, bringing elegance and savory mineral notes rather than raw power.
2020 | D 96
Refined and succulent, with a "sweet core of plummy fruit" and a "tensile" structure.
2021 | V 94
Very approachable for a young vintage, offering a mix of red and black fruits, fine tannins, and a "cool-vintage" elegance.
About Winery
Château Haut-Batailley, Fifth Grand Cru Classé in the 1855 Official Classification, is a benchmark in the Pauillac appellation. Its name is derived from the word "bataille" (battle), in memory of the fighting that is said to have taken place on the estate at the end of the Hundred Years' War in the 15th century.
Since 2017, Château Haut-Batailley has been run by the Cazes family, who are continuing the work begun by the Borie family in 1930 while carrying forward the style and quality of this key Médoc cru on the Left Bank of the Bordeaux region.
PRE-ORDER
2009 | WA 100
it offers up a sensational perfume of subtle burning embers, unsmoked cigar tobacco, charcoal, black raspberries, wet gravel, plums, figs and blueberries. There is so much going on in the aromatics that one almost hesitates to stop smelling it. However, when it hits the palate, it is hardly a letdown. This unctuously textured, full-bodied 2009 possesses low acidity along with stunning extract and remarkable clarity for a wine with a pH close to 4.0.
2011 | WA 95
a classic nose of subtle smoldering embers, warm rocks, black currants, new saddle leather, spice box and high quality, unsmoked cigar tobacco. The color is a dense ruby/purple to the edge, and the wine cuts a serious as well as broad swath across the palate. The most amazing aspect of this terroir is that the wine, despite all its power and richness, literally dances on the palate, as if it were a 90 pound ballerina.
2017 | JS 98
This will be a magnificent wine. Its structure, acidity and richness all show considerable potential. A crisp edge contrasts with the concentration and density that comes from the swaths of fruit. Wood aging has opened out the tanginess of a wine that will age over many years
2020 | JD 100
Revealing a deep ruby/plum hue, the 2020 exhibits extraordinary aromatics of ripe black fruits, scorched earth, cold fireplace, and acacia flowers. An absolute blockbuster on the palate, this structured, full-bodied, massively concentrated Pessac builds incrementally, with ultra-fine tannins, a deep, layered mid-palate, and a great, great finish.
2021 | WA 96-98
A candidate for the title of wine of the vintage, the 2021 Haut-Brion unwinds in the glass with aromas of rich red and black fruit mingled with notions of cigar wrapper, licorice, black truffles, loamy soil and burning embers. Full-bodied, deep and concentrated, it's elegant and multidimensional, with superb depth at the core, lively acids and ultra-refined tannins.
About Winery
Château Haut-Brion's history spans five centuries, starting with Jean de Pontac's acquisition of the domain in 1521. He defined the estate's vineyards and built the château in 1549. The property was further developed by his descendants, and its wines gained renown among British aristocrats and authors, including Samuel Pepys, who wrote about them in 1663. Thomas Jefferson also visited and praised the estate's wines. In the 1930s, the property was acquired by the Dillon family, and is still managed by the Dillon family today.
2006 | RP 96
Solid but less celebrated vintage; powerful, structured, slightly less balanced
2015 | JD 100
Universally acclaimed; considered one of Haut-Brion’s greatest modern vintages
2018 | JD 98
Deep, complex, full-bodied; praised for balance and longevity
2019 | JS 100
Another exceptional year; rich, structured, with perfect score from JS
About Winery
Château Haut-Brion's history spans five centuries, starting with Jean de Pontac's acquisition of the domain in 1521. He defined the estate's vineyards and built the château in 1549. The property was further developed by his descendants, and its wines gained renown among British aristocrats and authors, including Samuel Pepys, who wrote about them in 1663. Thomas Jefferson also visited and praised the estate's wines. In the 1930s, the property was acquired by the Dillon family, and is still managed by the Dillon family today.
PRE-ORDER
About Winery
Château Haut-Brion's history spans five centuries, starting with Jean de Pontac's acquisition of the domain in 1521. He defined the estate's vineyards and built the château in 1549. The property was further developed by his descendants, and its wines gained renown among British aristocrats and authors, including Samuel Pepys, who wrote about them in 1663. Thomas Jefferson also visited and praised the estate's wines. In the 1930s, the property was acquired by the Dillon family, and is still managed by the Dillon family today.
PRE-ORDER
About Winery
Château Haut-Marbuzet, a Saint-Estèphe estate, is renowned for its transformation from a relatively unknown property to a celebrated winery. While its origins trace back to the 18th century, its modern success is largely attributed to Hervé Duboscq's acquisition in 1952. The Duboscq family, particularly Hervé and his son Henri, revitalized the estate, earning it recognition and praise, including Robert Parker calling it "the most sensual Bordeaux wine".
PRE-ORDER
2015 | WE 96
Known for a deep ruby/plum color, with scents of black fruits, red currants, graphite, and toasted bread. It offers a mix of elegance and structure.
2017 | WE 95
The 2017 Chateau Kirwan is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. It is recognized as a high-quality, structured, and elegant Margaux.
2018 | WE 96
The wine features notes of blackcurrants, plush plum skins, cassis, and black cherry, complimented by savory hints of violets, licorice, and graphite.
2019 | WE 97
Elegant and structured, featuring aromas of dark fruits, violet, and spice, with velvety tannins and a long finish.
2021 | WE 94
A precise, focused wine with tannins built for aging.
About Winery
Ranked 3rd Cru Classé in Margaux in the 1855 Médoc classification, Château Kirwan has belonged to the Schÿler family since 1925. Boosted by the dynamism of Philippe Delfaut and endowed with infrastructures commensurate with its terroir, Château Kirwan belongs to the elite of the Margaux Grand Crus.
PRE-ORDER
1998 | JS 98
Deep garnet-red, displaying intense aromas of black cherry, roasted chestnuts, tobacco, black truffle, and earthy, savory notes. It is characterized by polished, velvety tannins and a long finish.
2000 | WA 98
Intense, opulent, and luxurious. Features notes of black cherry, plum, truffles, espresso, licorice, and graphite.
2005 | JS 100
A blend of roughly 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, the 2005 is known for its intense fruit, velvety texture, and high, firm tannins.
2007 | WA 94
Features a "snazzy" and silky texture with high-toned red fruit, cocoa, and refined tannins, noted by Jancis Robinson for having "lots of stuffing" for the vintage.
2011 | WS 93
Dark plum, chocolate, and graphite, with a long, fresh finish. It is drinking well now
2012 | D 96
It has a dense, velvety texture with soft, refined tannins due to a high Merlot concentration, creating a smooth, opulent palate.
2013 | WA 91
Velvet texture, dark berries, cedar, mineral notes, and refreshing acidity.
2016 | JS 99
Intense violet and dark berry nose, silky-smooth texture, and powerful yet elegant structure, often comparing it to a modern-day 1982.
2017 | WS 97
Rich and opulent with flavors of braised fig, plum sauce, black currant, chocolate, and black tea.
2019 | JD 98
Notes a rocking bouquet of blue fruits, dark chocolate, and damp earth.
2021 | JS 97
A "super-classic" L'Evangile, showing bright red fruit, truffle, and high, fine-grained tannins.
About Winery
Château L'Évangile, a historic Pomerol estate, has a rich history dating back to the mid-18th century. It was originally part of the Léglise family's holdings and later named L'Évangile by lawyer Isambert. The Ducasse family owned it for nearly 130 years before it was acquired by Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) in 1990. The Rothschilds invested heavily in the estate, improving vineyards, cellars, and introducing a second wine, Blason de L'Évangile.
PRE-ORDER
2011 | JS 92
This is very, very pretty, with plum, chocolate and cedar, plus hints of sweet tobacco. Full, very soft tannins. Savory and juicy.
2013 | WE 90
This is a soft wine, with ripe blackberry flavors and ample acidity. Perhaps the fruit tannins are too extracted, as a bit more structure would be welcome.
2015 | JS 94
Lots of currants, spices and fresh herbs follow through to a full body that's tight and silky. Hints of cream and vanilla. Savory and salty. Shows structure and intensity as the second wine of La Mission.
2016 | WA 94
Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it absolutely sings of red roses, black tea and tilled black soil with a core of crushed blackberries, Morello cherries and cassis plus a hint of cinnamon stick. Medium-bodied, the palate delivers a great intensity of ripe black berries and floral layers, framed by soft, silken tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and mineral laced.
2017 | JS 92
Lots of crushed berries and violets with sandalwood on the nose. Some herbs. Full body and firm, chewy texture. Slightly austere tannins. Long and chewy.
2019 | JD 96
It might be the second wine of the vintage and has plenty of classic La Mission sexiness and opulence as well as textbook notes of sweet red and black currants, tobacco leaf, exotic spice, acacia flowers, and lead pencil. Full-bodied, round, expansive, and powerful, yet also light on its feet and flawlessly balanced, it's a stunning Pessac in its own right to enjoy over the coming 20 years or so.
2020 | JS 96
A powerful 2020 for a second wine with blackberry, black olive and blueberry aromas and flavors. Blackcurrants as well. It’s full-bodied yet racy and structured with a long and intense finish.
2021 | JD 94
Black raspberries, dried flowers, tobacco, violets, and a beautiful spicy character emerge from the 2021 Château La Mission Haut-Brion, a pure, medium-bodied, incredibly polished, elegant Péssac-Léognan that has fine tannins, an utterly seamless, graceful mouthfeel, no hard edges, and a gorgeous finish.
About Winery
Produced in small quantities, this second wine is a gateway to the world of Château La Mission Haut-Brion. Its name is a nod to the chapel of La Mission Haut-Brion, built by Lazarist priests in 1698.
2012 | JS 92
Pure and precise aromas of dark fruits and currants with hints of stones follow through to a full body, fine tannins and a fresh finish. Harmonious and very elegant.
2018 | JS 94
Purity of blueberry, blackcurrant and chocolate character here. Shell and iodine. It’s full-bodied, chewy and structured with lots of cool tannins that lead long through the center of the wine. Second wine of La Mission.
About Winery
Produced in small quantities, this second wine is a gateway to the world of Château La Mission Haut-Brion. Its name is a nod to the chapel of La Mission Haut-Brion, built by Lazarist priests in 1698.
PRE-ORDER
2015 | JS 98
A velvety, aromatic blend of 81% Merlot and 19% Cabernet Franc, featuring notes of dark fruit, violet, and black truffle
2016 | JS 99
Classically inspired, elegant, and medium-bodied with fine tannins, crystalline fruit, and a long finish.
2017 | WA 97
The 2017 vintage is noted for its high energy and silky texture rather than sheer power, featuring firm, finely-grained tannins. It offers a fragrant, nuanced profile with red and black fruits, violet, and dark chocolate.
2018 | WA 98
Elegance, silky tannins, and intense aromatic profile, this blend of 83% Merlot and 17% Cabernet Franc is described as powerful yet refined, with significant aging potential.
2019 | JD 100
Intense fruit, silky texture, and high aromatic complexity with a long, saline finish.
2020 | WA 100
Complex scents of violet, mocha, cinnamon, raspberries, and lavender. Medium-bodied, elegant, and "super-finessed" with silky, powdery tannins.
2021 | WA 95
Notes of violet, blueberry, savory spice, and truffle with creamy, refined tannins.
About Winery
The name “La Conseillante” first appeared in the middle of the 18th century. It was given to the property by a certain Catherine Conseillan, an influential figure who ran the estate at that time -almost 300 years ago. It was in 1871 that the Nicolas family bought the estate, whose surface area and vineyard plots have remained unchanged since then.
Today, it is the turn of the fifth generation of the Nicolas to manage the estate, a demonstration once again of continuity and the attachment of the family to this great growth. Bertrand Nicolas and Jean-Valmy Nicolas are the join managing directors of La Conseillante. Marielle Cazaux is the estate manager.The Nicolas heirs are clearly identified on each bottle by the initials “LN” on the label at the centre of a shield within a silver-edged border whose four corners are sloped. The violet-coloured bottle capsule evokes the characteristic aroma of the wine. These packaging features, first chosen back in 1871 by the Nicolas brothers, remain elegant and yet modern even today.
