"93 out of 100...Kudos to proprietress Sophie Porquet, who also makes the sensational Cotes de Castillon, Joanin-Becot. From this 35-acre vineyard she has fashioned a sensational blend of 70% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Her finest effort since taking over this property in 1999, the 2005 boasts a saturated purple color followed by notes of ripe blackberries, black currants, licorice, incense, chocolate, and espresso. Thick, highly-extracted flavors nearly obscure the elevated tannins. This big, serious, rich claret is meant to last for three decades or more. A great wine for the vintage, it is also a sleeper of the vintage given the fact that this estate remains under most consumer’s radar. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030+." - WA

"92 out of 100...Intense aromas of crushed berry, toasty oak, coconut and milk chocolate lead to a full-bodied palate, with soft, velvety tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Stylish and voluptuous. Best after 2013. 4,500 cases made." - WS