Tasting Notes
Robert Parker 96
Served blind at the Southwold 2009 tasting. What a brilliant Saint Emilion this is. The 2009 has a very pure Burgundy inspired nose with lifted wild strawberry, Morello and violet notes. It is both feminine and alluring. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannins and a cashmere texture. There is patently a lot of extraction here but the natural acidity keeps it perfectly in balance. Suave and sensual as always. Tasted January 2013.
Vinous 95
Bright, saturated ruby. Slightly high-toned aromas of blueberry, black raspberry, mocha, violet and minerals. Wonderfully intense and vibrant; dense and seamless without being heavy. The blackberry and violet flavors are energized by a tactile, saline minerality. Remarkably plush, sweet and deep wine, with utterly suave tannins and outstanding palate-staining length. Has huge ripe tannins for extended aging but seems easier to taste than this wine normally is at this early stage owing to its sheer baby fat. Interestingly, I tasted this wine in the same flight as Magdelaine: the Mondotte came across as riper and more massive but both bottles say 14.5% alcohol on the label.