"a masterpiece." 100 points - James Suckling

With a history that dates back to 1660 when it was served at the table of King Charles II, Château Haut-Brion has maintained its position as a legendary wine estate. This exceptional blend is crafted from 45% Merlot, 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 9% Cabernet Franc, complemented by a touch of Petit Verdot. The grapes are hand-harvested and sorted multiple times, resulting in limited yields and a 22-month maturation in new oak barrels. The wine exhibits velvety notes of ripe blackcurrant and a mineral profile, showcasing the finesse that is synonymous with Haut Brion. In exceptional vintages, it can age for decades, with standout years like 1961 and 1989 solidifying its place among the world's greatest red wines.
 

Elegant and powerful, La Clarence 2010 offers ripe blackcurrant, cedar, and tobacco notes with a long, refined finish.

The 2022 Château Haut-Brisson presents a fragrant nose of ripe red and dark berries, with subtle citrus notes and a hint of graphite. On the palate, it is full-bodied and well-balanced, offering a rich texture with quality tannins and an exceptional length.

The color is dense and deep. The nose is precise and sumptuous. Aromas of red and black berries mingle with a minty touch. On the palate, the tannins are fine and coated with aromas of blackberry and raspberry. The palate is full and silky. A very long finish with an incredible depth.

The 2021 La Petite Eglise reveals a bright and expressive nose of red cherries, wild raspberries, and floral notes, accented by hints of graphite and fresh herbs. The palate is medium-bodied and refined, with supple tannins framing a core of vibrant red fruit. A streak of minerality and well-balanced acidity lend freshness and precision, while subtle spice and earthy undertones add depth. The finish is elegant and persistent, showcasing the purity and finesse of this Pomerol gem in a cooler vintage.

The 2021 Blason de l'Évangile greets the nose with bright redcurrant, Bing cherry, and mulberry aromas, accented by bay leaves, Sichuan pepper, and garrigue. The medium-bodied palate is elegant and plush, featuring delicately played red berry flavors supported by a harmonious finish.  

The 2021 Croix de Labrie presents an expressive bouquet of ripe blackberries, crushed raspberries, and violets, accented by subtle hints of graphite and spice. The palate is supple and refined, with silky tannins framing a core of fresh dark fruit. Well-integrated oak adds gentle toasty notes without overpowering the purity of the fruit. Bright acidity brings vibrancy, leading to a long, elegant finish with a touch of minerality. A poised and polished Saint-Émilion, showing finesse and balance in a challenging vintage.

Purchased and imported by Bellevue Hill Bottle Shop direct from Bordeaux. This wine has been professionally cellared and handled since bottling.

The 2022 Château La Fleur Saint-Émilion Grand Cru opens with an aromatic bouquet of wild cassis, bergamot, and ripe blackberries, layered with cardamom, clove, and a touch of sweet pepper. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, offering a supple texture with polished tannins and vibrant acidity. Flavors of juicy plum, dark cherry, and subtle spice unfold, leading to a refined, mineral-laced finish that reflects its limestone-rich terroir. 

Offering elegant aromas of black raspberry, cassis, violets, a touch of leather, and loamy soil. The mid-weight palate has good concentration and lift, with ripe black fruit character, and fine-grained tannins carrying over on a rich and long, succulent, layered finish.

Chateau La Mondotte Grand Cru Classe is an exceptional red wine from the Saint-Emilion region of Bordeaux, France. It has a deep and intense aroma of dark fruit, blackberry, and black currant, with hints of tobacco and spice. On the palate, it is full-bodied, with rich and concentrated flavors of black fruit, licorice, and espresso. The tannins are firm and well-structured, leading to a long and luxurious finish. This wine pairs well with grilled or roasted meats, game, and strong cheeses.
 

Deep red color.
The nose is still dominated by fresh fruit and elegant toasty notes.
On the palate, an immediate sensation of power, without any excess, follows a fleeting vivacity. The freshness of the finish, the grain of the tannins and the velvety woodiness suggest great ageing potential.

Carruades de Lafite, the second wine of Château Lafite Rothschild, shares the estate’s signature style while showcasing its own distinct character. This uniqueness comes from a greater presence of Merlot and select vineyard parcels dedicated to its production. The name originates from the Carruades plateau, a collection of plots acquired in 1845, situated near the château’s historic hillside vineyards.

A benchmark expression of Pauillac’s noble tradition and modern finesse, the 2022 Château Lafite Rothschild is a First Growth of remarkable clarity and depth.

A few months after bottling, Les Pelerins de Lafon-Rochet 2016 shows a very good balance with a nice tannic structure and a good freshness. Taste of good fresh fruit, cherry and blackcurrant and notes of cedar and white pepper. This wine is typical of the Saint Estephe appellation and will open up to become even more enjoyable in the years to come.