2006 Bordeaux Futures Offer

Please note: The prices in this catalogue have been adjusted to reflect the 5% GST rate that came into effect Jan. 1, 2008.

2006 Bordeaux Futures

2006 Bordeaux Futures List | How to Order

Tasting Notes: Left Bank | Right Bank

2006 Bordeaux Futures

Left Bank

Margaux - Red Wine

ALTER EGO
2^nd wine of Ch. Palmer

565150 (XD) 750 mL

$59.50 per btl $178.50 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 89-91 JR: 17- DEC: **** ST: 87-89 TJW: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Spicy and delicious. Shows loads of fruit, with fine tannins and a long finish. Very pretty and juicy. Score – (89-91). (WS)

BRANE-CANTENAC
2^e Cru

564583 (XD) 750 mL

$64.50 per btl $193.50 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 89-91 JR: 15.5 DEC: *** ST: 87-90 TJW: 9.0 SME: 9.0

TASTING NOTES: Balanced and pretty, with plum and currant. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium-long finish. All in finesse. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. Score – (89-91). (WS)

D'ANGLUDET

Cru Bourgeois Supérieur

563072 (XD) 750 mL

$37.70 per btl $113.10 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 89-91 JR: 16.0 DEC: *** SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Lots of blackberry and licorice character follows through to a full-bodied palate, with silky tannins and a medium finish. Well done. Score – (89-91). (WS)

DAUZAC
5^e Cru

563296 (XD) 750 mL

$46.65 per btl $139.95 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 89-91 JR: 15.5 DEC: *** ST: 87-90 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Wonderful perfumes, with floral and berry character. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and a long silky-textured finish. Score – (89-91). (WS)

D'ISSAN
3^e Cru

564419 (XD) 750 mL

$63.50 per btl $190.50 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-93 WS: 80-84 JR: 16.5 DEC: ***

TASTING NOTES: This elegant 2006 reveals abundant amounts of spring flower, sweet cherry, black currant, earth, and licorice characteristics along with fine ripeness, an ethereal, delicate style, beautiful concentration and purity, and a savory texture. It should easily keep for 15 or more years. Score – (90-93). (RP)

DU TERTRE
5^e Cru

563098 (XD) 750 mL

$45.65 per btl $136.95 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 85-88 JR: 17.0 DEC: *** ST: 87-89 TJW: 8.9 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Mid crimson; pale rim. Concentrated fruit but with a green undertow on the nose. Then lovely plump ripe fruit on the palate – almost opulent! And the tannins are extremely skilfully managed. Almost like cracking open a soft berry in the mouth. Some genius made this wine. Quite exceptional texture and no shortage of fruit. There’s certainly acidity, maybe a slightly lack of tannin in fact (don’t I always complain?) How on earth did that come about? Heavy fining before this sample was presented??? Drink 2012-19.
Score – (17.0). (JR)

GISCOURS
3^e Cru

563619 (XD) 750 mL

$66.45 per btl $199.35 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 89-91 WS: 89-91 JR: 16+? DEC: **** ST: 88-91 TJW: 8.9 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: A deep ruby/plum/purple hue is followed by aromas of tar, licorice, black currants, and roasted herbs, sweet, sexy fruit, soft, velvety tannins, medium to full body, and impressive purity. Drink this plush Margaux over the next 15-18 years. Drink 2007-2025. Score – (89-91). (RP)

KIRWAN
3^e Cru

563676 (XD) 750 mL

$61.50 per btl $184.50 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 88-91 WS: 85-88 JR: 17? DEC: *** ST: 89-91 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: A virile, muscular-styled effort with high tannin, the 2006 Kirwan exhibits notes of crushed rocks, roasted herbs, black cherries, and currants. Although slightly tough-textured, it possesses impressive depth and richness. If some of the disjointedness and rustic edges become sweeter and better integrated, this wine will merit an outstanding score. It is a big, full-bodied style of Margaux living on the edge of roughness. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2023+?. Score – (88-91). (RP)

LASCOMBES
2^e Cru

565259 (XD) 750 mL

$98.20 per btl $294.60 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-93 WS: 85-88 JR: 16+? DEC: *** ST: 89-91 SME: 9.0

TASTING NOTES: A strong effort for Lascombes, the 2006 is a blend of 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Petit Verdot. The harvest lasted nearly a month, from September 21 through October 19, and under the new ownership (which recently put this property up for sale), a severe triage was done prior to fermentation. The 2006 exhibits a deep ruby/purple color along with aromas of licorice, candied black cherries, blackberries, smoke, and barbecue spices. Surprisingly opulent, soft, and racy, but not as profoundly concentrated or dense as the 2005, this beautifully perfumed, silky-textured Margaux is ideal for drinking over the next 12-15 years. Drink 2007-2022. Score – (90-93). (RP)

MALESCOT ST-EXUPÉRY
3^e Cru

564005 (XD) 750 mL

$68.45 per btl $205.35 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 92-94 WS: 92-94 JR: 16.5 DEC: **** ST: 89-91 TJW: 9.2 SME: 9.0

TASTING NOTES: This property has made some brilliant wines in recent vintages, including a monumental 2005 and super-delicious 2004. Another stunning offering, the 2006 possesses sweet cherry and cassis notes intermixed with spring flowers, underbrush, and licorice. Medium-bodied and beautifully concentrated with soft acids as well as sweet tannin, the overall impression is one of opulence and plushness, atypical characteristics for a 2006. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025. Score – (92-94). (RP)

MARGAUX

1^er Cru

566547 (XD) 750 mL

$768.45 per btl $2,305.35 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 93-95 WS: 95-100 JR: 18++ DEC: ***** ST: 92-95 TJW: 9.5 SME: 9.3

TASTING NOTES: Very powerful and rich. Fantastic. Full, silky and structured. Yet layered and rich, with loads of mineral, violet and coffee character. Incredible. So much finesse in the nose. What a wine. Similar to the 1995, which received 100 points. Score – (95-100). (WS)

PALMER

3^e Cru

566281 (XD) 750 mL

$292.55 per btl $877.65 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 91-94 WS: 92-94 JR: 18 DEC: ***** ST: 91-93 TJW: 9.3

TASTING NOTES: From only 50% of the harvest, administrator Thomas Duroux has produced a blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon and 34% Merlot from yields of 37 hectoliters per hectare. The 2006 reveals a touch of austerity along with an impressive dense purple color, and sweet aromas of flowers, licorice, black currants, oak, and underbrush. This structured, powerful, medium to full-bodied, beautifully made, ageworthy 2006 should be ready to drink in 5-6 years, and keep for 25-30. Score – (91-94). (RP)

PAVILLON ROUGE
2^nd wine of Ch. Margaux

565127 (XD) 750 mL

$86.30 per btl $258.90 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 85-88 JR: 16.5 DEC: **** TJW: 9.1 SME: 9.0

TASTING NOTES: Deep colour, very ripe 40% Merlot balanced by 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% of Cabernet Franc to add density and grip, a beautifully fresh wine compared by Paul Pontallier to 2003 and 1995. 2012-20. Score – ****. (DEC)

PRIEURÉ-LICHINE
4^e Cru

563718 (XD) 750 mL

$54.55 per btl $163.65 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 89-91 JR: 17.5 DEC: *** ST: 88-91 SME: 8.8

TASTING NOTES: Silky, with mineral and currant character, medium body and a fresh finish. Long and caressing. Well done. Score – (89-91). (WS)

RAUZAN-SÉGLA
2^e Cru

564088 (XD) 750 mL

$98.20 per btl $294.60 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-93 WS: 92-94 JR: 17++ DEC: **** ST: 89-92 SME: 9.1

TASTING NOTES: Lovely fresh aromas of currant and blackberry. Full-bodied, with succulent fruit and lovely finesse and length. Gorgeous. Score – (92-94). (WS)

Pauillac - Red Wine

CARRUADES DE LAFITE ROTHSCHILD
2^nd wine of Ch. Lafite Rothschild

565218 (XD) 750 mL

$91.25 per btl $273.75 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 85-88 JR: 16.5++ DEC: **** ST: 87-89 TJW: 8.9 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: (48% each merlot and cabernet sauvignon, with 2.5% cabernet franc and 1.5% petit verdot) Bright ruby-red. Fruit-driven aromas of currant and cherry lifted by a floral topnote. Juicy and firm on the palate, with complex flavors of currant, minerals, flowers, dark chocolate and currant leaf. The wine's acid spine and slight greenness give it a very fresh, vibrant character and contribute to the impression of structure. Finishes firmly tannic, with moderate persistence. Score – (87- 89). (ST)

CLERC MILON
5^e Cru

564500 (XD) 750 mL

$58.55 per btl $175.65 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 91-93 WS: 89-91 JR: 16+ DEC: **** ST: 88-90 TJW: 9.0 SME: 9.0

TASTING NOTES: A brilliant success for Clerc-Milon, this deep ruby/purple-hued blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, and 6% Cabernet Franc exhibits notes of espresso roast, chocolate, cedar, and copious amounts of black currant fruit. It is a medium to full-bodied, pure, rich, layered, intense effort built along the lines of the 1996, but with more forward fruit at present. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2025. Score – (91- 93). (RP)

D'ARMAILHAC
5^e Cru

563924 (XD) 750 mL

$51.60 per btl $154.80 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 88-90+ WS: 89-91 JR: 16.0 DEC: **** ST: 87-90 TJW: 9.2 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Lovely licorice and currant aromas follow through to a medium- to full-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a soft, fruity finish. Nicely done for the vintage.
Score – (89-91). (WS)

DUHART-MILON
4^e Cru

564450 (XD) 750 mL

$58.55 per btl $175.65per 3-btl. lot

RP: 91-93 WS: 89-91 JR: 17+ DEC: **** ST: 89-91 TJW: 9.0 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Not surprisingly, this estate’s owner, the Rothschild family (who also owns Lafite-Rothschild), has been making significant investments in Duhart’s winemaking facilities and vineyards. These investments helped create a blockbuster 2003 and 2005 as well as an outstanding 2006. Eliminating 50% of the crop produced a 1986-ish blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot exhibiting notes of creme de cassis, pain grille, black cherries, and undertones of loamy earth, herbs, and spice. Copious richness and up-front fruit (the latter a characteristic of the vintage) along with good freshness and liveliness suggest this Pauillac will be at its finest between 2012-2025. Score – (91-93). (RP)

GRAND-PUY-LACOSTE
5^e Cru

564716 (XD) 750 mL

$81.35 per btl $244.05 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-92 WS: 89-91 JR: 18.0 DEC: **** ST: 89-91 SME: 9.2

TASTING NOTES: While not at the level of this estate’s blockbuster 2005, the 2006 exhibits a deep purple color as well as classic aromas of cassis and blueberries, ripe tannin, medium body, a distinctive minerality, and a long finish. It recalls the brilliant 1995 and 1996 made here. Fashioned from yields of 47 hectoliters per hectare, the final blend is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc. Score – (90-92). (RP)

HAUT-BAGES-LIBÉRAL
5^e Cru

563205 (XD) 750 mL

$46.65 per btl $139.95 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 89-91 WS: 92-94 JR: 17- DEC: *** ST: 86-88 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Beautiful nose of ripe blackberry and currant. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long finish. Very well done. Impressive. Score – (92-94). (WS)

HAUT-BATAILLEY
5^e Cru

563668 (XD) 750 mL

$48.60 per btl $145.80 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 89-91 WS: 89-91 JR: 17.5 DEC: **** ST: 87-89 SME: 9.2

TASTING NOTES: This feminine-styled wine is more similar to a St.-Julien than a Pauillac. A blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Merlot, the deep ruby/purple-tinged 2006 Haut-Batailley offers up sweet aromas of black cherries, licorice, currants, and a hint of underbrush along with a silky texture. Xavier Borie has been upgrading the quality at this estate over the last several years. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020. Score – (89-91). (RP)

LAFITE ROTHSCHILD

1^er Cru

567032 (XD) 750 mL

$768.45 per btl $2,305.35 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 91-94 WS: 92-94 JR: 18.5 DEC: ***** ST: 92-95 TJW: 9.3 SME: 9.3

TASTING NOTES: Lafite’s Merlot harvest occurred between September 15-22, and the Cabernet Sauvignon from September 27 until the end of the first week of October. Only 42% of the production made it into the grand vin (a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, and 2% Petit Verdot). The 2006 is a tannic, restrained effort that brings to mind the 1988. A deep ruby/purple color is followed by sweet aromas of graphite, creme de cassis, spice, and subtle wood. Medium-bodied and richly fruity with decent acidity and a long finish, it will require 8-10 years of cellaring, and should keep for 4-5 decades. Score – (91-94). (RP)

LATOUR

566448 (XD) 750 mL

$768.45 per btl $2,305.35 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 93-96 WS: 95-100 JR: 18.5 DEC: ***** ST: 93-95 TJW: 9.4 SME: 9.4

TASTING NOTES: Very long. Wonderful licorice, berry and currant character. Full and silky, beautiful and pure. This is really distinguished. Feminine but strong. Classic Bordeaux style. Score – (95-100). (WS)

LE PETIT MOUTON

2nd wine of Ch. Mouton Rothschild

566240 (XD) 750 mL

$118.00 per btl $354.00 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 85-88 JR: 17 DEC: **** TJW: 9.1 SME: 9.1

TASTING NOTES: Some decent fruit, but turns a little herbal, with plum skin character. Medium body. Light finish. Second wine of Mouton. Score – (85-88). (WS)

LES FORTS DE LATOUR
2^nd wine of Ch. Latour 2nd wine of Ch. Latour

565689 (XD) 750 mL

$137.85 per btl $413.55 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-92 WS: 89-91 JR: 17.5 DEC: **** ST: 88-91 TJW: 9.0 SME: 9.0

TASTING NOTES: Latour’s second wine, the 2006 Les Forts de Latour, a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot, does not possess the depth of its bigger sibling. Nevertheless, it offers sweet, ripe berry fruit, crushed rock, smoke, and earth characteristics along with good precision and savoriness. It should drink nicely for 15-20 years. Drink 2027. Score – (90-92). (RP)

LYNCH BAGES
5^e Cru

564377 (XD) 750 mL

$98.20 per btl $294.60 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 91-93 WS: 92-94 JR: 17.0 DEC: **** ST: 89-92 TJW: 9.2 SME: 9.1

TASTING NOTES: This may turn out to be the finest Lynch Bages made since the 2000. The vintages between 2000 and 2006 are certainly very good, but seemingly lighter-styled in addition to being more forward and soft. The seriously-endowed, dense ruby/purple-tinged 2006 reveals a classic nose of creme de cassis, roasted meats as well as herbs, licorice, and toasty oak. Fleshy, full-bodied, opulent, and well-endowed, it will be at its peak in 5-6 years, and should keep for 20 or more. Drink 2012-2027. Score – (91-93). (RP)

MOUTON ROTHSCHILD

566927 (XD) 750 mL

$818.05 per btl $2,454.15 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 96-100 WS: 95-100 JR: 17.5++ DEC: ***** ST: 93-96 TJW: 9.5 SME: 9.4

TASTING NOTES: This extraordinary Mouton should turn out to be the finest they have made since the monumental 1982 and 1986. In early tastings, Mouton often seems to tag along behind the other first-growths. Yet in 2006, there is no question that the Baronne Philippine de Rothschild gave carte blanche authority to her talented administrator, Philippe Dalhuin, to turn up the heat in 2006. Yields were a tiny 32 hectoliters per hectare, the harvest took place between September 20 and October 15, and a minuscule 44% of the crop made it into the grand vin (the lowest percentage in more than half a century). The final blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon and 13% Merlot is unusually high in Cabernet Sauvignon, but it possesses Mouton’s hallmarks of pure creme de cassis and flowers in addition to a toasty oak character. Profoundly concentrated, super-textured, and rich, Mouton’s powerful, full-bodied 2006 is unquestionably a strong candidate for the “wine of the vintage.” Kudos to Mouton’s winemaking team for fashioning this brilliant wine. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2050.
Score – (96-100). (RP)

PICHON LONGUEVILLE COMTESSE DE LALANDE
2^e Cru

565614 (XD) 750 mL

$187.40 per btl $562.20 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 94-96 WS: 89-91 JR: 16.5+ DEC: **** ST: 90-92

TASTING NOTES: Pichon Lalande’s new owner, the Roederer champagne firm, appears to have produced one of the finest Pichon Lalandes made in recent years. Administrator Thomas Do-Chi-Nam, assisted in 2006 by consultant Hubert de Bouard, declared only 41% of the production as the grand vin, resulting in a wine that should rival both the 2003 and 2000. The final blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and 36% Merlot was cropped at 41 hectoliters per hectare. This gorgeous wine represents an updated version of the 1996. It boasts a dense purple color as well as a beautiful nose of espresso roast, chocolate, creme de cassis, cedar, and spice. Full-bodied and powerful with high tannin, an attractive mouthfeel, and a multilayered texture, it will be a backward-styled Pichon Lalande, but it is significantly better than the 2005, recalling some of the finest vintages produced over the last 20-35 years. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030+. Score – (94-96). (RP)

PICHON-LONGUEVILLE-BARON
2^e Cru

565481 (XD) 750 mL

$137.85 per btl $413.55 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 92-94 WS: 89-91 JR: 17.5++ DEC: ***** ST: 91-93 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: A strong effort from this well-run estate, Pichon Baron’s 2006 exhibits an inky/purple color as well as a sweet, pure nose of black currants, cedar, and smoky new oak. Full-bodied with ripe tannin, impressive concentration, and a layered mouthfeel, this is another noteworthy offering from an estate that has been remarkably successful over the last 15+ years. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2025+. Score – (92-94). (RP)

PONTET-CANET
5^e Cru

564815 (XD) 750 mL

$104.05 per btl $312.45 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 93-95+ WS: 92-94 JR: 16.0 DEC: **** ST: 91-94 TJW: 9.3 SME: 9.2

TASTING NOTES: One can’t say enough about the extraordinary quality proprietor Alfred Tesseron has achieved at Pontet-Canet over the last decade. The 2006 is another massive wine that may be as backward and concentrated as its nearby neighbor, Mouton Rothschild. Boasting a dense purple/black color in addition to aromas of creme de cassis, incense, burning embers/charcoal, and pain grille, it is monstrous in the mouth with huge flavor concentration, extremely high tannins, and significant extract. Tesseron’s goal appears to be a 50+ year wine. The 2006 requires a decade of patience. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2040+. Score – (93-95+). (RP)

Pessac-Léognan/Graves - Red Wine

BAHANS HAUT-BRION
2^nd Wine of Ch. Haut Brion

565556 (XD) 750 mL

$88.25 per btl $264.75 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 85-88 JR: 17- DEC: **** ST: 87-89 SME: 9.1

TASTING NOTES: (2nd wine of Chateau Haut-Brion) Moderately intense ruby. Nose spicy and fresh, fruity, cherry-scented. Palate easy, fresh, mid-weight, with gravely, mineral flavours. Very pleasing, easy to enjoy young to mid-term. Well made. [ Drink 2011-31].
Score – ****. (DEC)

BRANON

566034 (XD) 750 mL

$94.20 per btl $282.60 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-94 WS: 80-84 ST: 88-91

TASTING NOTES: A 600-case cuvee that could be called a vin de garage of the Graves, this wine is fashioned under the auspices of the talented and ambitious Helene Garcin with the assistance of Dr. Alain Raynaud. A blend of 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot, the 2006 reveals a distinctive nose of scorched earth, blueberry jam, spicy, high class French oak, and smoke. Full-bodied with striking minerality, it tastes like the essence of the Graves appellation. This pure, rich effort should age beautifully for 20+ years. Score – (90-94). (RP)

CARBONNIEUX

Cru Classé

564138 (XD) 750 mL

$42.65 per btl $127.95 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-92 WS: 85-88 JR: 16.5+ DEC: *** ST: 87-89 TJW: 9.0

TASTING NOTES: One of the most dramatic improvements in Bordeaux is what proprietor Tony Perrin has accomplished with Carbonnieux’s red wine program. The whites have always been among the leaders of the appellation, but he has built more fruit, body, and texture into the reds over recent vintages. Another unequivocal success, the 2006 offers creme de cassis, kirsch, and subtle smoke characteristics in a medium-bodied, pure, elegant style. With lovely texture, sweet tannin, and a savory, long finish, it should offer delicious drinking after 3-4 years of bottle age, and will keep for 15+ years. Score – (90-92). (RP)

DE CHANTEGRIVE

563106 (XD) 750 mL

$22.85 per btl $68.55 per 3-btl. lot

JR: 17 DEC: ** SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Mid purplish crimson – healthy. Rather exotic mulberry nose. Clean and fresh and pure on the palate – very transparent. Lovely balance and nothing overdone. Lots of fine tannin hidden underneath the most delightfully clean, expressive fruit so it should be worth waiting for this to unfurl. Neat, dry finish. Drink 2015-25. Score – (17). (JR)

DOMAINE DE CHEVALIER

Cru Classé

564104 (XD) 750 mL

$63.50 per btl $190.50 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-92 WS: 89-91 JR: 17+ DEC: **** ST: 88-91 TJW: 9.0 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Major progress is being made at Domaine de Chevalier as the wines are revealing less overt oak as well as better integration of all the wines’ structural components. The 2006 possesses a savory, subtle nose of lead pencil shavings, sweet black cherries, currants, and earth. Pure, medium-bodied, and elegant with supple tannin, and substantial flavor interest and length, it should drink beautifully in 3-4 years, and last for 15-20.
Score – (90-92). (RP)

HAUT-BAILLY

Cru Classé

564229 (XD) 750 mL

$88.25 per btl $264.75 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 91-94 WS: 92-94 JR: 16.5 DEC: **** ST: 89-92 TJW: 9.3 SME: 9.2

TASTING NOTES: This is historically one of the most ethereal and elegant wines of Bordeaux, and under the new proprietor, American banker, Robert Wilmers, backed up by Veronique Sanders, the granddaughter of the former proprietor, Daniel Sanders, Haut-Bailly is making its finest wines in nearly three decades. The 2006 boasts a dark ruby color along with a stunning bouquet of charcoal embers intermixed with sweet black cherry and black currant fruit, beautifully integrated, subtle oak, medium body, and a gorgeous texture. Despite impressive fruit intensity and impeccable length, it remains light on its feet. This classic Graves tastes like the Cheval Blanc of Pessac-Leognan. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030. Score – (91-94). (RP)

HAUT-BRION

1^er Cru

567214 (XD) 750 mL

$768.45 per btl $2,305.35 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 92-94 WS: 92-94 JR: 18 DEC: ***** ST: 92-95 TJW: 9.3 SME: 9.2

TASTING NOTES: The 2006 Haut-Brion was somewhat closed when I tasted it, especially when compared to its blockbuster rival/sibling, La Mission Haut-Brion. The Haut-Brion (11,000 cases) is a tannic, backward wine at present revealing classic notes of smoke, scorched earth, liquid minerals, plums, currants, and cherries, medium body, and sensational purity as well as concentration. The high tannins will no doubt soften with aging in barrel, and, as Haut-Brion often does, the wine should expand and put on weight. While not as superb as the 2005 or 2000, the 2006 appears to be built along the lines of the 1996. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030+. Score – (92-94). (RP)

LA MISSION HAUT-BRION

Cru Classé

567107 (XD) 750 mL

$768.45 per btl $2,305.35 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 96-100 WS: 95-100 JR: 17.5 DEC: ***** ST: 91-94 TJW: 9.4 SME: 9.2

TASTING NOTES: This superb effort rivals La Mission’s 2005. There are 6,000 cases of the 2006, and general manager Jean-Philippe Delmas told me that the Merlot came in at a natural alcohol that exceeded 15%. The final alcohol is a whopping 14.3%, the pH is 3.8, and the blend is 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon. This utterly profound, exceptionally rich, full-bodied, thick La Mission is undeniably one of the candidates for the “wine of the vintage.” It possesses a dense ruby/purple color followed by sweet blue and black fruit notes intertwined with notions of burning embers and flowers. Unctuous, massively fruity, and thick, this is a great La Mission! Anticipated maturity: 2012-2035+. With the elimination of La Tour-Haut-Brion from the Dillon estate’s portfolio, the production of La Mission’s second wine, La Chapelle de la Mission, has dramatically increased to 4,000 cases. I rated the 2006 La Chapelle de la Mission (89-90). Score – (96-100). (RP)

PAPE CLÉMENT

Cru Classé

565515 (XD) 750 mL

$197.35 per btl $592.05 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 92-94 WS: 89-91 JR: 16.5 DEC: **** ST: 90-93 SME: 9.0

TASTING NOTES: More accolades are due proprietor Bernard Magrez, Bordeaux’s leading visionary, for what he is accomplishing at his flagship estate as well as at myriad other properties. Pape-Clement’s harvest took place between September 21 and October 10. Yields were only 40 hectoliters per hectare, and the final blend was 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Franc. While the 2006 will not make anyone overlook the immortal 2005, it is a brilliant, blue/purple-tinged effort exhibiting aromas of lead pencil shavings interwoven with blueberries, raspberries, black currants, and background wood. Medium to full-bodied, pure, textured, and structured, this beauty is one of the appellation’s finest wines. It should put on even more weight with some bottle age. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030. Score – (92-94). (RP)

SMITH HAUT LAFITTE

Cru Classé

564989 (XD) 750 mL

$78.35 per btl $235.05 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 91-93 WS: 89-91 JR: 17.0 DEC: **** ST: 90-92 SME: 9.1

TASTING NOTES: The brilliant succession of red and white wines that has emerged from Smith-Haut-Lafitte since the early 1990s is attributable to the passion and hard work of perfectionist proprietors Florence and Daniel Cathiard. The beautiful 2006 exhibits aromas and flavors of earth, graphite, sweet cassis, cherries, smoke, and spice. Medium-bodied with admirable concentration, soft tannin, and impressive purity, texture, and length, this powerful wine is built on an elegant framework. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2025. Score – (91-93). (RP)

Pessac-Léognan/Graves - White Wine

CARBONNIEUX BLANC

Cru Classé

564039 (XD) 750 mL

$47.60 per btl $142.80 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-93 WS: 85-88 JR: 15.0 DEC: ****

TASTING NOTES: This is a strong vintage for Bordeaux’s dry white wines, probably as good or better than 2005. Crisp acidity combined with outstanding concentration and the fact that most of the white grapes were harvested before the rains began in mid-September resulted in an impressive group of wines. Score – (90-93). (RP)

DE FIEUZAL BLANC

564799 (XD) 750 mL

$53.55 per btl $160.65 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 88-90? WS: 89-91 JR: 15.5 DEC: **** ST: 86-88

TASTING NOTES: Pale, green/gold. Soft, oaky, creamy, straw-scented nose. Smooth, crisply structured, very integrated and stylish. Good depth of flavour allied with balanced structure. Good length. 2009-29. Score – ****. (DEC)

DOMAINE DE CHEVALIER BLANC

Cru Classé

564047 (XD) 750 mL

$108.10 per btl $324.30 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 92-94 WS: 89-91 JR: 17+ DEC: ***** ST: 92-95 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Pale, limpid. Soft, creamy, aromatic, oaky nose. Lovely freshness and gentle fruit. nothing harsh/overdone. Subtly lovely; silky fruit. Long finish. Super stylish, lovely balance. [Drink] 2011-36. Score – *****. (DEC)

HAUT-BERGEY BLANC

563320 (XD) 750 mL

$38.70 per btl $116.10 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-92 JR: 16.0 DEC: **** ST: 89-92

HAUT-BRION BLANC

Cru Classé

566364 (XD) 750 mL

$768.45 per btl $2,305.35 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 94-97 WS: 92-94 JR: 18.5 DEC: ***** ST: 93-96 TJW: 9.3 SME: 9.3

LATOUR-MARTILLAC BLANC

Cru Classé

564344 (XD) 750 mL

$41.65 per btl $124.95 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 85-88 JR: 16.5 DEC: ****

TASTING NOTES: Pale, watery colour. Oaky, fresh, grassy nose. Delicious freshness and integrated oak. Very stylish, exuberant fruit. lifted acidity. Expressive sauvignon. 2009-2019. Score – ****. (DEC)

PAPE CLÉMENT BLANC

Cru Classé

565796 (XD) 750 mL

$266.75 per btl $800.25 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 96-100 JR: 17.5 DEC: **** ST: 91-93 TJW: 9.3 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Honeyed, lanolin nose. Rich and round – very attractive indeed with a certain smokiness. Lovely wine by any standards! Fully ripe fruit with a strong grapefruit element. Oak imperceptible. No oiliness even if obviously quite a lot of alcohol. Really excellent – perhaps not the longest finish though it does hum fairly confidently. Definitely needs to be served pretty cool because of the alcohol though. Drink 2010-18. Score – (17.5). (JR)

SMITH HAUT LAFITTE BLANC

Cru Classé

565002 (XD) 750 mL

$104.15 per btl $312.45 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 93-95 WS: 92-94 JR: 17.0 DEC: *** ST: 90-93 SME: 9.1

TASTING NOTES: Rich, round and layered, with good acidity, but also lots of ripe fruit, from honey to pineapple. Score – (92-94). (WS)

Saint-Estèphe - Red Wine

CALON-SÉGUR
3^e Cru

563882 (XD) 750 mL

$81.35 per btl $244.05 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-93 WS: 92-94 JR: 17.5 DEC: **** ST: 89-92 SME: 9.1

TASTING NOTES: The harvest at this estate was relatively late for the vintage (September 26-October 15), and approximately two-thirds of the production made it into the final blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot. The 2006 is highly successful, as Madame Gasqueton said, no doubt because of the de-leafing and crop-thinning done throughout the summer. A deep dark ruby/purple hue is accompanied by a sweet nose of black cherries, damp earth, and a hint of herbs. Medium-bodied with surprisingly soft tannin, no austerity, decent acidity, and a fruit-forward, fleshy personality, it should be accessible at an earlier age than the blockbuster 2005. Score – (90-93). (RP)

COS D'ESTOURNEL
2^e Cru

565580 (XD) 750 mL

$187.40 per btl $562.20 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 92-94+ WS: 92-94 JR: 18 DEC: ***** ST: 91-94 TJW: 9.3 SME: 9.2

TASTING NOTES: Jean-Guillaume Prats told me that yields were a modest 38 hectoliters per hectare, and only 55% of the production made it into the 2006 Cos. The harvest took place between September 21 and October 6, and the final blend is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon (78%), followed by 20% Merlot, and 2% Cabernet Franc. The dense ruby/purple-tinged 2006 recalls such vintages as 1988 and 1996. It offers a classic bouquet of incense, licorice, pain grille, black currants, truffles, and flowers. Medium-bodied and concentrated with moderately high tannin, it will require 8-10 years of cellaring, and should keep for 30 or more. It is another terrific effort from an estate that has done everything right over the last decade. Score – (92-94+). (RP)

MONTROSE
2^e Cru

565275 (XD) 750 mL

$127.95 per btl $383.85 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 92-95 WS: 89-91 JR: 17.5 DEC: **** ST: 88-91 TJW: 9.1 SME: 9.1

TASTING NOTES: This is the first vintage produced under the full control of Jean-Bernard Delmas, the person responsible for so many of the great Haut-Brions between 1961 and 2003. Yields were kept low (41 hectoliters per hectare), and for the first time, the entire vineyard was crop-thinned. About 60% of the production made it into the final blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon and 28% Merlot and Petit Verdot. The deep ruby/purple-hued 2006 possesses classic aromas of creamy blackberries, cassis, flowers, and crushed rocks. It is medium-bodied with a multilayered texture, sweeter, more finely tuned tannin than past vintages, and a powerful finish. There has been no compromise to the wine’s massive richness and density, but rather an emphasis on taming some of the huge tannins Montrose produces. It is an outstanding, fresh, lively effort that appears to be a brilliant achievement for the vintage. The tannin level ranks alongside such great Montrose vintages as 2005, 1990, and 1989, but they are noticeably sweeter. It should age handsomely for 30 or more years. Drink 2007-2037. Score – (92-95). (RP)

Saint-Julien - Red Wine

BEYCHEVELLE
4^e Cru

564252 (XD) 750 mL

$61.50 per btl $184.50 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-92 WS: 85-88 JR: 15.5+ DEC: *** ST: 87-89 SME: 9.1

TASTING NOTES: Beychevelle has been a hit-or-miss estate for nearly three decades, but it appears to be achieving more consistency and quality over recent vintages. The deep plum/ruby-tinged 2006 possesses charcoal, black cherry, cedar, and spice characteristics, sweet fruit, medium body, an elegant, but substantial style, and impressive concentration, texture, and length. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2028. Score – (90-92). (RP)

BRANAIRE DUCRU
4^e Cru

564609 (XD) 750 mL

$74.40 per btl $223.20 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 92-94 WS: 89-91 JR: 16.0 DEC: **** ST: 90-93 TJW: 9.1 SME: 9.0

TASTING NOTES: Proprietor Patrick Maroteaux continues to ratchet up the quality level at this impeccably run St.-Julien estate. The 2006 is similar to the 1996 Branaire, but with sweeter fruit. A deep ruby/purple hue precedes a perfumed nose of sweet boysenberries, black cherries, minerals, spring flowers, and a hint of pain grille in the background. Fresh, savory, medium to full-bodied flavors coat the palate with beautiful purity, no hard edges, ripe tannin, and intense fruit. This elegant, layered, impressive offering will be at its peak between 2012-2025. Score – (92-94). (RP)

CLOS DU MARQUIS
2^nd Wine of Ch. Léoville-Las Cases

564732 (XD) 750 mL

$61.50 per btl $184.50 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 92-94 JR: 16.5 ST: 88-90 TJW: 9.0 SME: 9.0

TASTING NOTES: Wonderful aromas of blackberries, minerals and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with a lovely core of cool fruit. Racy and caressing tannins. Excellent. 13.2 percent Cabernet Franc – more than normal. Better structured than normal, too. Score – (92-94). (WS)

DUCRU-BEAUCAILLOU

2^e Cru

566323 (XD) 750 mL

$197.35 per btl $592.05 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 94-96 WS: 92-94 JR: 17++ DEC: ***** ST: 91-94 TJW: 9.2 SME: 9.2

TASTING NOTES: Similar in style to the 1996, proprietor Bruno Borie continues to curtail yields, now producing just under 10,000 cases of the grand vin, and the rest of the production going into the increasingly high quality second wine, La Croix de Ducru Beaucaillou. The backward, tannic, dense purple-colored 2006 Ducru Beaucaillou offers sweet mineral-infused black cherry and cassis fruit interwoven with notions of graphite and truffles. Powerful, pure, rich, and intense, it should be at its peak between 2017-2035. Score – (94-96). (RP)

GLORIA

563700 (XD) 750 mL

$44.65 per btl $133.95 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 89-91 WS: 89-91 JR: 15.5 DEC: **** ST: 86-89 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Gloria has been producing terrific wines over recent vintages. The 2006 is a slightly more structured effort than the fleshy 2005, but it offers a deep ruby/purple color as well as loads of black cherry and currant fruit interwoven with notes of cedar, herbs, and spice. A major sleeper of the vintage, it is dense, rich, and surprisingly opulent with admirable fruit purity and an enticing texture. It should drink well young, yet evolve for 15+ years. Drink 2007-2022. Score – (89-91). (RP)

GRUAUD-LAROSE
2^e Cru

562959 (XD) 750 mL

$71.40 per btl $214.20 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 89-91 JR: 17.0 DEC: *** ST: 88-90 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Velvety and fruity. Lots of mineral and berry character. I would like to see a little more fruit in the center palate, but it's clean and racy. And it should grow in the barrel. Better than the 2005. Close to 92-94. Score – (89-91). (WS)

LAGRANGE
3^e Cru

564062 (XD) 750 mL

$61.50 per btl $184.50 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 91-94 WS: 89-91 JR: 16.5 DEC: **** ST: 88-91 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: A strong effort for this estate, the 2006 Lagrange competes with the finest wines of the appellation. One of my pet peeves with this wine is that the oak is often excessive, but in this vintage, it is beautifully integrated, allowing the sweet cassis, licorice, herb, and spice box notes to dominate. Ripe and medium to full-bodied with moderately sweet tannin, abundant fruit, and a long finish, it is similar to the 1996 Lagrange, with perhaps more fruit. Time will tell. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2027. Score – (91-94). (RP)

LANGOA BARTON
3^e Cru

563726 (XD) 750 mL

$76.35 per btl $229.05 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-92 WS: 89-91 JR: 17.5- DEC: **** ST: 89-91 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Much like its more famous sibling, Leoville Barton, the 2006 Langoa Barton is a heady, ripe, dense, tannic, powerful wine possessing a deep ruby/purple color as well as aromas of underbrush, damp earth, creme de cassis, and licorice. Rich, layered, and impressive, it will be drinkable between 2013-2030. Score – (90-92). (RP)

LÉOVILLE BARTON
2^e Cru

563734 (XD) 750 mL

$98.20 per btl $294.60 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 92-94 WS: 92-94 JR: 18.0 DEC: ***** ST: 91-93 SME: 9.0

TASTING NOTES: This classically made, dense purple-hued wine exhibits enormous potential, but currently it is forebodingly backward, dense, and broad. Once again, proprietor Anthony Barton delivers a wine with superb concentration, a classic style, and the possibility of three decades or more of ageability. Like most of the finest Leoville Bartons, considerable patience will be required. The 2006 will need 8-10 years of cellaring, and may even rival the 2005. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2035. Score – (92-94). (RP)

LÉOVILLE POYFERRÉ
2^e Cru

565036 (XD) 750 mL

$94.20 per btl $282.60 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 91-93+ WS: 89-91 JR: 17.0 DEC: **** ST: 89-92 TJW: 9.2 SME: 9.0

TASTING NOTES: Beautiful, vibrant, black raspberry and cassis fruit, fresh acidity, medium to full body, superb ripeness, melted tannins, and a long, savory, expansive mouthfeel are found in this top-notch St.-Julien. Friendlier than the more backward, tannic 2005 Leoville-Poyferre, the 2006 should be at its finest between 2011-2028. Score – (91-93+). (RP)

LÉOVILLE-LAS CASES

2^e Cru

566661 (XD) 750 mL

$296.50 per btl $889.50 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 93-95 WS: 95-100 JR: 18 DEC: ***** ST: 93-95 TJW: 9.5 SME: 9.4

TASTING NOTES: Fabulous aromas of mineral, currant and blackberry. Full and supersilky, with a long, long finish. Very fine tannins, even though there are loads of them. Long and round. Reminiscent of the excellent 1996 Las Cases, but better. Score – (95-100). (WS)

TALBOT
4^e Cru

563759 (XD) 750 mL

$58.55 per btl $175.65 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 89-91 WS: 89-91 JR: 16.0 DEC: **** ST: 87-90 TJW: 9.0 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: The 2006 Talbot is a more seductive, possibly sexier wine than the 2005, which is seemingly more reserved in that top-notch vintage. The 2006 exhibits sweet, olive-tinged black cherry and currant fruit, soft tannin, a heady attack, good freshness and acidity, and a lush, fleshy finish. It will drink beautifully in 4-6 years, and last for two decades. Drink 2011-2027. Score – (89-91). (RP)

Left Bank Other

Bordeaux Supérieur - Red Wine

GRAND VILLAGE

565317 (XD) 750 mL

$15.90 per btl $47.70 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 85-88 JR: 15.5

TASTING NOTES: Soft and fruity for the vintage. Medium-bodied, with friendly tannins and good fruit. Score – (85-88). (WS)

LE CONSEILLER

563049 (XD) 750 mL

$21.85 per btl $65.55 per 3-btl. lot

SME: 8.9

Haut-Médoc - Red Wine

BEAUMONT

Cru Bourgeois

562975 (XD) 750 mL

$19.85 per btl $59.55 per 3-btl. lot

JR: 16.5+ DEC: *** TJW: 8.7

TASTING NOTES: Bright crimson with a pale pink rim. Fresh and quite fine though far from intense. Round and sweet on the front palate – very friendly and attractive with bright well balanced fruit. Tarry finish but good positive character. Score – (16.5+). (JR)

CANTEMERLE
5^e Cru

563957 (XD) 750 mL

$37.70 per btl $113.10 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-92 JR: 15.5 DEC: *** ST: 87-90 TJW: 9.1 SME: 9.0

TASTING NOTES: Quality at this property has been rising dramatically over the last several vintages. Cantemerle will never be a blockbuster claret, but rather one built on finesse and elegance. Hints of menthol, black cherries, cranberries, and blueberries emerge from the 2006's perfumed bouquet. Medium body, impressive purity, good underlying texture, and sweet tannin suggest this elegantly-styled wine will drink well between 2009-2020+. It possesses intense flavors yet requires some introspection. Score – (90-92). (RP)

LA LAGUNE
3^e Cru

564195 (XD) 750 mL

$64.50 per btl $193.50 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 92-94 WS: 85-88 JR: 16.0 DEC: **** ST: 88-91 SME: 8.8

TASTING NOTES: Wow, has this property come back with resounding quality over the last three or four years, producing wines that are better than anything they made during their glory days in the seventies and eighties. The 2006 La Lagune, a superb effort for the vintage, boasts a saturated purple color as well as a sweet perfume of boysenberry jam intermixed with raspberries, pain grille, and flowers. Exceptional fruit purity and medium body result in a sensational wine that should be drinkable in 3-4 years, and last for two decades. Drink 2010-2027. Score – (92-94). (RP)

LA TOUR CARNET
4^e Cru

564526 (XD) 750 mL

$44.65 per btl $133.95 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 91-93 WS: 85-88 JR: 17.0 DEC: *** ST: 87-90 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Owned by Bordeaux empire builder Bernard Magrez, this estate has been on fire ... qualitatively speaking ... since 2001. The 2006, another top-notch effort, underwent two de-leafings (one in early summer and one a few months later) and two crop-thinnings, which explain the tiny yields. There is also a severe triage after the wine is made. A final blend of 60% Merlot, 31% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot has resulted in a wine with a lovely perfume of sweet black currants, truffles, incense, and smoke. With sweet but noticeable tannin, medium to full body, brilliant concentration and purity as well as terrific precision and style, this stunning effort is unquestionably a sleeper of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030. Score – (91-93). (RP)

SOCIANDO-MALLET

563015 (XD) 750 mL

$62.50 per btl $187.50 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-92 WS: 85-88 JR: 16 DEC: **** ST: 87-89 TJW: 8.9 SME: 8.8

TASTING NOTES: This classic wine is built for long-term aging (the French expression is vin de garde). A saturated purple color is followed by an extraordinary nose of graphite, cold steel, black currant jam, and a subtle truffle/earthy note. Powerful with highly extracted richness, high tannins, and the concentration necessary to stand up to the wine’s structure, it will require 7-10 years of cellaring, and should last for two decades thereafter. Drink 2014-2027. Score – (90-92). (RP)

THE WINEMAKERS' COLLECTION CUVEE N°2:
DENIS DUBOURDIEU

563429 (XD) 750 mL

$44.65 per btl $133.95 per 3-btl. lot

RP: 90-92

TASTING NOTES: This enticing project was instituted by the Bordeaux negociant, Bordeaux Millesimes, under the moniker of “Once Upon a Wine.” Each year a wine will be made based on one parcel of vines from Chateau d’Arsac, and the concept involves one of the world’s most respected winemakers for each vintage. Denis Dubourdieu was chosen for 2006, following the debut vintage, 2005, made by Michel Rolland. Approximately 5,000 cases will be produced in each vintage. Professor Dubourdieu fashioned a dense ruby/purple-hued wine displaying notes of black cherries, cassis, licorice, pain grille, and earth. More structured than the 2005, with less sweet tannin, it is richly fruity, deep, medium to full-bodied, and impressively endowed. The 2006 Cuvee Number Two should drink well for 15 or more years. These wines are meant to be a cinematic study of the same terroir with the philosophy of the winemaker imprinted on each vintage, and the winemakers are given carte blanche authority to do whatever they want. It will be fascinating to compare these offerings as they evolve, but there is no doubt that some of the world’s greatest winemaking talents are being lined up to continue this creative concept. Score – (90-92). (RP)

Médoc - Red Wine

TOUR ST-BONNET

Cru Bourgeois

563056 (XD) 750 mL

$16.90 per btl $50.70 per 3-btl. lot

Médoc - White Wine

CHÂTEAU TALBOT CAILLOU BLANC

563841 (XD) 750 mL

$33.75 per btl $101.25 per 3-btl. lot

Moulis - Red Wine

CHASSE-SPLEEN

Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel

562967 (XD) 750 mL

$39.70 per btl $119.10 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 85-88 JR: 15.0 DEC: **** ST: 84-87 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Fine deep colour, lovely nose of concentrated blackcurrants, leafy, lifted fruit that shows the elegance of the style of Chasse-Spleen, fine length and balance. 2011-2018. Score – ****. (DEC)

Sauternes/Barsac - White Wine

CAILLOU
2^e Cru

563239 (S) 375 mL

$19.85 per btl $59.55 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 85-88 JR: 17.0

TASTING NOTES: Heady pear juice notes on the nose. Excellent weight and plumpness. Really interesting with some obvious botrytis influence. Good concentration and tang. Long and powerful. Very throat-soothing with a peacock’s tail finish. Score – (17.0). (JR)

CLIMENS
1^er Cru

565986 (S) 375 mL

$69.45 per btl $208.35 per 3-btl. lot

JR: 18+ DEC: ***** SME: 9.0

TASTING NOTES: If Yquem was a big step above the rest, Climens was at least half a step above the rest. Very complete and dense with wonderfully smooth texture if in some cases a little lighter than some years with a distinctly green tang to some lots. Still some astringency but very fine tannins. Good concentration and good acidity too. Drink 2012-30. Score – (18+). (JR)

COUTET
1^er Cru

563254 (S) 375 mL

$37.70 per btl $113.10 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 89-91 JR: 17.0 DEC: ****

TASTING NOTES: Shows lemon and lime character, with hints of spice. Medium- to full-bodied and medium sweet, but a little short. Wait and see. Promises more on the nose than it gives on the palate. Score – (89-91). (WS)

DE FARGUES

564021 (S) 375 mL

$77.35 per btl $232.05 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 95-100 JR: 15.0 DEC: **** SME: 9.1

TASTING NOTES: This is big, powerful and intense, with loads of ripe fruit and spice character. Full-bodied, racy, very sweet and long. Complex, layered and fantastic, showing ginger spice. Really stands out. Excellent. Score – (95-100). (WS)

DOISY-VÉDRINES
2^e Cru

563080 (S) 375 mL

$25.80 per btl $77.40 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 89-91 JR: 16.5 DEC: **** SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Shows a solid core of fruit, with spice, honey, lemon and lime. Full-bodied and medium sweet. Spicy and very minerally. Long and balanced. Almost 92-94.
Score – (89-91). (WS)

D’YQUEM

1^er Cru Supérieur

567370 (S) 750 mL

$818.05 per btl $2,454.15 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 95-100 JR: 19 DEC: ***** SME: 9.3

TASTING NOTES: This is very long and intense. Really impressive. Full and very sweet, yet racy and fresh, with spicy botrytis character. Fantastic. Score – (95-100). (WS)

D'YQUEM

1^er Cru Supérieur

567388 (S) 375 mL

$411.50 per btl $1,234.50 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 95-100 JR: 19 DEC: ***** SME: 9.3

TASTING NOTES: This is very long and intense. Really impressive. Full and very sweet, yet racy and fresh, with spicy botrytis character. Fantastic. Score – (95-100). (WS)

GUIRAUD
1^er Cru

563452 (S) 750 mL

$69.45 per btl $208.35 per 3-btl. lot

563510 (S) 375 mL

$36.00 per btl $108.00 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 92-94 JR: 17.5 DEC: **** TJW: 9.1 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: Rich and structured, showing honey and spice. Full-bodied, with medium sweetness. Tight, firm and long. Score – (92-94). (WS)

LA TOUR BLANCHE
1^er Cru

563312 (S) 375 mL

$40.70 per btl $122.10 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 92-94 JR: 17.5++ DEC: ****

TASTING NOTES: Shows excellent richness, with honey and syrup character. Full-bodied. Very sweet, spicy and long. Big and rich, but leaves the palate fresh. An excellent wine. Almost 95-100. Score – (92-94). (WS)

RIEUSSEC
1^er Cru

563387 (S) 750 mL

$98.20 per btl $294.60 per 3-btl. lot

563395 (S) 375 mL

$50.00 per btl $150.00 per 3-btl. lot

WS: 92-94 JR: 17.5 DEC: **** TJW: 9.0 SME: 8.9

TASTING NOTES: This is big, rich and long. Still tastes like must. Hard to taste, but should be fantastic. I love the richness and spice. Score – (92-94). (WS)

SUDUIRAUT
1^er Cru

563262 (S) 750 mL

$91.25 per btl $273.75 per 3-btl. lot

563650 (S) 375 mL

$47.