Bordeaux

R.P. 90 pts.

The sexy second wine of this estate, the 2005 Blason D’Issan, has a surprisingly saturated, ruby/plum/purple color, wonderful sweet black cherry and blackcurrant fruit, silky tannins, medium body and outstanding concentration, richness and length.

The 1995 is a 40% Merlot/60% Cabernet Sauvignon blend. It exhibits more of the trademark characteristics of its bigger sibling. Elegant, with spicy new oak, lead pencil, and creamy black currant fruit, this is a medium-bodied, finesse-styled wine with excellent purity and overall equilibrium.

R.P. 91 pts.

A blend of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, the 2008 exhibits graphite, sandalwood, black and red currant, chocolate and damp earth characteristics in its elegant, medium to full-bodied, fresh, lively personality. It is a delicious, luscious, already evolved wine.

R.P. 92 pts.

Deep garnet colored, the 2010 Carruades de Lafite charges out of the gate with bold scents of baked plums and boysenberries followed by hints of menthol, tobacco leaf, cloves and smoked meats. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers a well-poised frame of ripe, grainy tannins and seamless freshness supporting the savory flavors, finishing with a spicy kick.

R.P. 92 pts.

Deep garnet colored, the 2010 Carruades de Lafite charges out of the gate with bold scents of baked plums and boysenberries followed by hints of menthol, tobacco leaf, cloves and smoked meats. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers a well-poised frame of ripe, grainy tannins and seamless freshness supporting the savory flavors, finishing with a spicy kick.

R.P. 88 pts.

The estate’s second wine, the 2004 Bahans-Haut-Brion, possesses a similar character, but is lighter and softer than the Haut Brion, with notes of red and black currants, plum, and earth.

R.P. 93 pts.

An absolutely sensational second wine from Haut-Brion, the 2005 Bahans Haut-Brion displays all the smoke, gravel and chocolate notes along with ripe black fruits. Broad, savory, rich and lush, this is a sensational wine (now called Le Clarence) with gorgeous texture and length.

The 2006 Bahans-Haut-Brion has a fragrant earthy, woodland, almost autumnal bouquet that is well defined and fully mature. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannin, lightweight perhaps but with a keen thread of acidity, attenuated slightly towards the finish.