En Primeur Tasting Vintage 2017

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1 Tasting: Primeur Week Type: Bordeaux partially open and partially blind Place: Date: Bordeaux Primeur Week Bordeaux to A heterogeneous vintage, 2017 will remain in the memory of a lot of vintners with very mixed feelings. An early bud break put hopes very high for a good vintage. These hopes were destroyed by a frost period of historical dimensions. On April 20 an 21 as well as on April 27 and 28 the frost destroyed 30 to 50% of the harvest in the Gironde area, though the best terroirs and famous appellations have been less affected. An early and regular flowering set new hopes. Summer was very dry and the harvest was quite early, even accelerated by rain at the beginning of September. This was rather a problem for the Merlot grapes than for Cabernets. The Cabernet-Sauvignon took advantage of a dry Indian Summer. Overall the vintage produced remarkable dry white wines above the qualities of 2015 and The sweet wines took advantage of a fast and regular Botrytis resulting in great wines. The red wines are in general more heterogeneous. However, concerning the wines tasted and presented below, it is a vintage without aromas of peppers and vegetal components, therefore suggesting a good ripening level. For the vineyards suffering frost, often the second generation of grapes had to be used to produce wine. These wines are less impressive than the previous vintages. The best terroirs were offering wines with expressive fruit with a character allowing a good evolution. On the left bank, Pauillac was doing remarkably well as well as Saint-Julien and generally the vineyards facing the river. On the right bank the situation is much more heterogeneous, with very good results on the plateau calcaire of Saint-Emilion and the centre of the plateau de Pomerol. Overall fruit is dominating the tasting notes and at this early stage, the aromatic expression is mainly based on red and dark berries and stone fruit for the reds. For the whites the range goes from yellow fruits and citrus fruits up to tropical fruits especially in the sweet wines. Looking back to the last vintages ending on "7" it seems, that this vintage again respects a certain "7"-Tradition. It is a vintage bringing back Bordeaux to its roots, offering a very classic wine style with lower alcohol levels than in the previous years but with often excellent aromatic expression and 2016 have surely been better vintages than last year, but based on a first impression 2017 seems to be better than The evolution will show, that 2017 is far from becoming a "forgotten vintage". Some nice surprises will be waiting for us. Vintage Wine Appellation Rating Tasting note 2017 Aile d'argent Bordeaux 94 Bright yellow colour with green hue. Very elegant yet persistent nose with aroma reminiscent of ripe grapefruit, physalis, lemon zest, lilies and white blossoms. A juicy wine with wonderful balance, mature acidity, freshness and elegance, tropical and sweet fruit in the finish with a lingering aftertaste Alcée Castillon / Côtes de Bordeaux 90 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Excellent nose with good concentration, fine fruit, blackberries and dark cherries, strawberries, discreet spiciness, hints of roasting aroma with dark chocolate. On the palate sweet and juicy fruit, ripe but firm tannins, elegant and fresh with good depth and length Alter Ego de Palmer Margaux 90 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Ripe nose with aroma reminiscent of blackberries and prunes, hints of chocolate in the background. On the palate well structured with ripe tannins, juicy fruit and discreet spiciness. Good length.

2 2017 Angélique de Monbousquet 2017 Angélus Saint-Emilion Premier Grand Cru Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black hue. Aromatic nose with ripe plums, black cherries, balmy spices and elegant roasting aroma. On the palate well balanced with ripe fruit, firm tannins, slightly dryish finish. 96 Deep purple red with violet hue and black core. Complex and aromatic nose with excellent structure. Distinct toasting aroma in balance with succulent fruit. Dark cherries, blackberries, dark chocolate and fresh ground coffee beans. On the palate well structured with ripe tannins, elegant fruit and fine oak flavour in the background. A very well structured wine with great length Arômes de Pavie Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 92 Dark purple red with violet hue and black hue. Opulent nose with distinct berry fruit, plums and black cherries, roasting aroma and gingerbread spices in the background. On the palate well structured with tight tannins, rich fruit, roasting aroma and mild spices, very good length Bad Boy Bordeaux 86 Dark purple red with violet hue. Well balanced character with aromatic nose, blackcurrants and hints of mulberries. On the palate well structured tannins, medium length, slightly closed in the finish Blanc Sec de Suduiraut Bordeaux 88 Bright yellow with green hue. Elegant nose with fine fragrance, reminiscent of ripe citrus fruit, honey and white blossom. Peaches in the background. On the palate well balanced with crisp acidity, creamy texture, very good length Blason d'issan Margaux 90 Intense ruby red colour with violet hue. Elegant nose with fragrant fruit, raspberries, blackberries, discreet spiciness in the background. On the palate well balanced with fragrant fruit, a very elegant and persistent style with convincing length Cap de Faugères Castillon / Côtes de Bordeaux 2017 Carat de Château Réaut Cadillac / Côtes de Bordeaux 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Rich nose with elegant spiciness, hint of incense, ripe plums, blackberries and black cherries. Mild spices in the background. On the palate rich and powerful with well balanced structure, mature tannins, a wine displaying a certain potential. 91 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Concentrated nose, restrained fruit, elegant spiciness. On the palate rich and compact, very well concentrated with massive but mature tannins, plums and dark berries in the aftertaste in combination with roasting flavour. Good structure and length Carillon d'angélus Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 90 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Elegant nose, initially slightly closed, fragrant fruit in good balance with elegant spiciness and discreet roasting aroma. On the palate medium bodied with good length, tight tannic structure, good length.

3 2017 Carruades de Lafite Pauillac 93 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Restrained fruit reminiscent blackcurrants and dark berries. Very elegant roasting aroma and hints of dark chocolate in the background. On the palate velvety texture, ripe tannins, ripe fruit and fine spiciness. A well balanced wine with good length Chapelle d'ausone Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 93 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Expressive nose, discreet spiciness, succulent fruit, blackcurrants and blackberries discreet roasting aroma. On the palate well structured with fine acidity, ripe tannins and juicy elegant fruit. A great Chapelle with freshness, elegance and precision, one of the surprises of the vintage Chapelle de Potensac Médoc 86 Dark ruby red with violet hue. Restrained fruit and discreet spiciness, however ripe aroma. On the palate elegant with ripe tannins, discreet acidity and fine fruit Château Les Grands Chênes Médoc 88 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Aromatic nose with balmy spices, prunes and dark berries. Hints of vanilla in the background. On the palate well structured with firm but balanced tannins and good aromatic length Château Ausone Saint-Emilion Premier Grand 98+ Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Great character, slightly closed nose, opens up with some oxygen. Dark berries, e.g. blackberries and elderberries, hints of vanilla and mild spices, discreet toasting aroma in the background. On the palate well structured with fine acidity ripe tannins and great depth. A very classic, elegant style with a promising future Château Badette Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2017 Château Balestard la Tonnelle Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 92 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Aromatically rich nose reminiscent of ripe berries, toasted oak, mild spices and hints of plums in the background. On the palate well structured with sweet fruit, balmy spices, ripe tannins and convincing length. 93 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Distinct roasting aroma, dark chocolate, fresh ground coffee beans, quite complex, sweet fruit, plums and black cherries, blackberries in the background. On the palate well balanced with tightly woven tannins, sweet fruit and convincing length Château Balthus Bordeaux Supérieur 91 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Rich nose with ripe fruit reminiscent of ripe blackberries and blackcurrants, elderberries and mulberries. Discreet spiciness and hints of roasting aroma in the background. On the palate well structured and balanced with ripe yet firm tannins, juicy fruit and good length Château Barrail Saint André Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 86 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Aromatic nose slightly dominated by toasting aroma, discreet fruit in the background. On the palate medium bodied with firm tannins and medium length.

4 2017 Château Bastor Lamontagne Sauternes 89 Bright golden yellow colour. Elegant nose with fine fruit, dried apricots, candied orange peel, Mirabelle and hints of vanilla. On the palate well balanced with fine acidity, elegant sweetness and good length Château Batailley Pauillac 95 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Quite closed character, slowly opening up, displaying aroma reminiscent of dark berries, ripe tannins, elegant, velvety texture, fine acidity, excellent length Château Beau Site Saint-Estèphe 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Very concentrated nose, mulberries, blackcurrants, discreet roasting aroma. On the palate sweet fruit, ripe tannins, very good balance with good length Château Beaumont Haut - Médoc 90 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Aromatic nose with dark berries reminiscent of blackberries and sweet elderberries. On the palate juicy character, ripe tannins, sweet fruit, discreet spiciness and good length Château Beauregard Pomerol 95 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Rich nose with ripe fruit, blackberries, black cherries, balmy spices, gingerbread and hints of roasting aroma. Complex character. On the palate well structured with succulent fruit, ripe tannins and flowery flavours in the background. Elegant and rich Château Beau-Séjour Bécot 2017 Château Beauséjour Duffau-Lagarosse Saint-Emilion Premier Grand Cru Saint-Emilion Premier Grand Cru 95 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Well balanced fruit, elegant toasting aroma and discreet spiciness, a well made classic style. On the palate well balanced with juicy fruit, ripe tannins and very good length with lingering fruit. 96 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Opulent and rich with intense fruit, dark berries, prunes, balmy spices and roasting aroma, toasted bread, dark chocolate and hints of liquorice in he background. On the palate well balanced with juicy fruit, ripe but firm tannins, opulent character and excellent length Château Beauvillage Médoc 86 Dark purple red with violet hue. Discreetly aromatic nose with hints of smoked aroma, ripe berries and plums in the background. On the palate elegant with hints of dark chocolate and coffee, ripe fruit, mature tannins, well balanced with medium length Château Belair Monange Saint-Emilion Premier Grand Cru 95 Dark purple red with violet hue. Aromatic nose with elegant spiciness, roasting aroma, oak spices, fine dark berry fruit, hints of plums and black cherries in the background. On the palate elegant with fine fruit, ripe tannins and good structure. A wine with convincing length.

5 2017 Château Belgrave Haut-Médoc 92 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Excellent nose with fine roasting aroma, freshly ground coffee beans, dark chocolate, hints of vanilla and gingerbread spices. On the palate well structured and balanced with silky tannins and fine acidity, elegant fruit and convincing length. A wine in a true Cabernet-style Château Bellefont- Belcier Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 92 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Quite massive wine with closed character, at the moment the toasting aroma of the oak and the spiciness is more upfront, fruit in the background. On the palate well structured with an almost soft approach, ripe tannins, good length and discreet fruit in the finish Château Bellegrave Pauillac 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Quite classic nose with aroma reminiscent of blackcurrants and mild spices, discreet roasting aroma. On the palate juicy character, fine acidity, elegant tannins and good length Château Bellevue Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2017 Château Bellevue de Tayac 2017 Château Bellevue Mondotte 89 Dark purple red colour with violet hue. Slightly closed character, aromatic potential, plums, black cherries, cocoa and hints of mocha in the background. On the palate well structured and balanced with medium weight and good length, very approachable style. Margaux 89 Dark ruby red with violet hue. Distinct oak character slightly covering the fruit, on the palate well structured with fine tannins and discreet fruit. A wine on the elegant side, at the moment with a slight dominance of the oak. Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 93 Dark purple red with violet hue and black hue. Initially slightly closed nose, restrained fruit, dark chocolate, vanilla, gingerbread spices. On the palate balmy character, firm tannins, good structure and length Château Berliquet Saint-Emilion 88 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Well structured nose with aroma reminiscent of dark berries, sloe and black cherries, hints of liquorice and mild spices in the background. On the palate tight structure with firm tannins, restrained fruit, medium bodied with good length Château Bernadotte Haut-Médoc 87 Dark purple red with violet hue. Elegant nose with aroma reminiscent of ripe berries, dark chocolate, vanilla and hints of mild spices. On the palate well structured with firm tannins, rather good length Château Beychevelle Saint-Julien 95 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Opulent nose, blackberries, ripe blackcurrants, sweet elderberries, hints of dark chocolate, pipe tobacco and mild spices. On the palate ripe but tight tannins, juicy fruit, excellent structure and length. A great wine.

6 2017 Château Bonalgue Pomerol 91 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Expressive nose with distinct roasting character, ripe dark berry fruit, hints of mild spices. On the On the palate well structured, with sweet fruit, roasting aroma, freshness, firm tannins and very good length Château Bourgneuf Pomerol 91 Purple red with violet hue. Slightly closed character, opening up slowly, red berries, hints of dark berries and a touch of dark chocolate in the background. On the palate well structured with firm tannins, slightly dryish in the finish however good length Château Bouscaut Pessac-Léognan 91 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Elegant nose with aroma reminiscent of graphite, pencil shavings, fine roasting aroma, blackcurrants and dark berries in the background. On the palate well structured with ripe fruit, mature but tight tannins, good aromatic length Château Bouscaut blanc Pessac-Léognan 91 Bright yellow with green hue. Expressive nose with aroma reminiscent of fresh grapefruit peel, mint and box tree, hints of yellow stone fruit in the background. On the palate well structured with mild acidity, hints of minerality and good aromatic length Château Boutillon "Cuvée Luigi" Bordeaux Supérieur 85 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Elegant nose with fine fruit, dark berries, e.g. blackberries, discreet spiciness. On the palate well balanced with ripe tannins, sweet fruit and medium length Château Boutisse Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Ethereal nose with ripe dark berries and discreet flowery hints. On the palate well structured with fine fruit flavour and discreet spiciness. Tannins quite firm but well balanced, a wine with good length Château Branaire-Ducru Saint-Julien 93 Dark purple red with violet hue. Elegant nose with fine fruit, dark berries and hints of raspberries. On the palate well balanced with fine fruit, freshness and elegance, firm tannins, lingering fruit Château Branas Grand Poujeaux 2017 Château Brane- Cantenac Moulis en Médoc 90 Dark purple red with violet hue. Expressive nose with aroma reminiscent of black cherries, blackberries and iris in the background. On the palate ripe tannins with firm character, juicy fruit, fine acidity and good length. Margaux 96 Dark purple red with violet hue. Classic and elegant nose, fine fruit, raspberries and dewberries, elegant spiciness in the background. Very fine roasting aroma backing the fine fruit aroma. On the palate excellent structure, juicy fruit, ripe tannins. A wine in perfect balance with excellent length displaying freshness and aromatic depth Château Brillette Moulis - en - Médoc 88 Dark purple red with violet hue. Aromatic nose with fine fragrance, raspberries, strawberries and hints of blackberries. Vanilla in the background. On the palate well structured with firm tannins, fine fruit but a slightly dryish finish.

7 2017 Château Brondelle Graves 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Aromatic nose with ripe fruit, ethereal notes and aromatic herbs. Roasting aroma in the background. On the palate well structured with fine fruit, firm tannins, fine acidity and good length Château Brondelle Graves 88 Bright yellow colour with green hue. Elegant wine with expressive fruit, ripe apricots and peaches, grapefruit zest and tangerine in the background. Hints of mint. On the palate well structured with flavour reminiscent of mint and citrus fruit, mild acidity and good length Château Broustet Barsac 89 Bright golden yellow colour. Quite classic style with fine botrytis influence, ripe apricots and pears as well as hints of tropical fruits in the background. On the palate well structured rather medium bodied but with good length, juicy fruit and balanced character Château Brown Pessac-Léognan 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Pleasant nose with juicy fruit and hints of roasting aroma. On the palate well structured with ripe tannins, juicy fruit, very good length Château Brown blanc Pessac-Léognan 90 Bright yellow with green hue. Elegant and quite typical nose with aroma, reminiscent of ripe citrus fruit, grapefruit, lemon peel and white blossoms. On the palate well balanced with crisp acidity, creamy texture, distinct citrus fruit and good length Château Calon-Ségur Saint-Estèphe 95 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. A wonderful classic wine with great freshness and depth, blackcurrants and ripe blackberries, dewberries in the background. On the palate ripe tannins, juicy fruit, very elegant with freshness and convincing length. A wine back to its roots Château Canon Saint-Emilion Premier Grand Cru 95 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Initially slightly closed, opens up slowly. Quite aromatic nose with sweet fruit, plums and black cherries, blackberries in the background. Roasting aroma and discreet hints of vanilla. On the palate well structured with ripe fruit, firm tannins, discreet roasting aroma and good length Château Canon - La - Gaf Saint-Emilion 96 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Aromatic nose with elegant spiciness, liquorice, vanilla and hints of cardamom, backed by concentrated fruit, blackberries and black cherries. On the palate well structured with elegant fruit, firm but ripe tannins and excellent length. A vey elegant and persistent wine with promising future Château Cantegril Sauternes 89 Bright yellow colour. Slightly closed nose with elegant fruit, apricots, pineapple and papaya. On the palate well balanced with candied orange peel and hints of apricot jam, rich sweetness and good length.

8 2017 Château Cantemerle Haut - Médoc 90 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Elegant nose with fine fruit reminiscent of blackberries, rosehips, vanilla and toasted gingerbread. On the palate well structured with ripe but firm tannins, fine fruit, medium bodied with good length Château Cantenac Brown Margaux 93 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Expressive nose with aroma reminiscent of raspberries, blackberries and rose hips jam, vanilla and gingerbread spices, discreet roasting aroma, complex character. On the palate juicy fruit, discreet roasting flavour, ripe but firm tannins, fine acidity, well structured with full-bodied character and convincing length Château Cantin Saint-Emilion 91 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Well balance and concentrated nose with aroma reminiscent of blackberries, black cherries, elegant roasting aroma, hints of dark chocolate and mild spices. On the palate well structured with ripe tannins, sweet fruit, elegant spiciness and very good length Château Cap de Mourlin Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2017 Château Cap Léon Veyrin 92 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Expressive nose with concentrated fruit reminiscent of mulberries and elderberries, cocoa and mocha. On the palate rich yet fresh, tight tannins, sweet fruit and good length. Listrac 87 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Aromatic nose, sloe and cherry stone, vanilla and mild spices. On the palate well structured but slightly rustic tannins, rather good length Château Capbern Saint-Estèphe 90 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Fragrant nose with aroma reminiscent of blackcurrants and blackberries. On the palate wonderful fruit, fine acidity, ripe tannins, well structured finish with good length. A very precise and elegant wine Château Carbonnieux Pessac-Léognan 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Quite closed nose, restrained fruit reminiscent of dark berries. On the palate quite elegant but still closed, ripe but firm tannins, good length Château Carbonnieux blanc Pessac-Léognan 91 Bright yellow with green hue. Excellent nose with very typical character, elegant fruit, lemon peel, fresh grapefruit, ripe peaches and apricots, aromatic herbs. On the palate well structured with fine acidity, elegant citrus fruit, hints of peaches in the finish. A wine with elegant minerality and convincing length Château Carlmagnus Fronsac 90 Dark purple red with violet hue. Aromatic and well concentrated nose, dark berries, sweet elderberries and blackberries, fine spiciness in the background. On the panel quite aromatic with roasting flavour, dark berries, well structured with ripe tannins and convincing length.

9 2017 Château Carmes Haut- Brion Pessac-Léognan 92 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Elegant nose with fragrant fruit, hints of graphite and pencil shavings, on the palate well structured with ripe tannins, silky texture and good length Château Caroline Moulis en Médoc 88 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Slightly closed character with rather restrained fruit. Elegant roasting aroma and hints of mild spices. On the palate elegant fruit, hints of roasting flavour, fine structure and length Château Caronne Ste Gemme 2017 Château Carteau Côtes Daugay 2017 Château Certan de May de Certan 2017 Château Chantegrive blanc Haut-Médoc 88 Dark purple red with violet hue. Elegant nose with aroma reminiscent of coffee and grated dark chocolate, blackcurrants and mulberries in the background. On the palate well balanced with mature tannins, rather good length and pleasant mouthfeel. Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 88 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Fragrant nose with flowery character and hints of dark berries. On the palate well structured, firm tannins, a bit dry in the finish. Pomerol 94 Dark purple red with violet hue. Well structured nose, distinct oak influence, almost smoky character, mild spices in the background. On the palate well structured with juicy fruit, blackberries and blackcurrants, firm tannins, fine acidity, convincing length. Graves 87 Bright yellow colour with green hue. Elegant, somehow closed nose with restrained fruit reminiscent of ripe citrus-fruit and peaches. On the palate restrained fruit, closed character, medium bodied with medium length Château Charmant Margaux 89 Very elegant Margaux with dark purple red colour and violet hue. Elegant nose with ripe fruit, blackberries, raspberries and hints of flowery aroma. Fine roasting aroma in the background. On the palate elegant yet persistent with ripe tannins, juicy fruit and good length Château Chasse - Spleen Moulis - en - Médoc 90 Purple red with violet hue. Elegant nose with discreet roasting aroma, hints of mild spices, elegant fruit in the background. On the palate well structured, fine fruit, ripe tannins, medium bodied with very good length. A very classic style Château Chemin Royal Moulis en Médoc 87 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Elegant roasting aroma, red and dark berries, discreet spiciness. On the palate fine fruit, discreet roasting flavour, rather well balanced with good length Château Cheval-Blanc Saint-Emilion Premier Grand Cru 98+ Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Elegant and expressive nose, very elegant nose with aroma reminiscent of blackcurrants, dark berries, hints of roses and violets in the background. Elegant roasting aroma and fine mild spices are contributing to the wine's complexity. On the palate very elegant, great finesse and freshness, ripe fruit, mature tannins. A very classic, Cabernet based Cheval Blanc with great potential.

10 2017 Château Cissac Haut-Médoc 89 Dark purple red with violet hue. Very fine and fragrant nose, blackcurrants, blackberries and hints of mulberries. On the palate elegant with silky texture, ripe tannins, very elegant and precise. A wine with freshness and finesse in a very classic style Château Clarke Listrac - Médoc 89 Purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Very fine nose with fragrant fruit reminiscent of blackberries and blackcurrants, some hints of raspberries and elderberries in the background. On the palate well balanced with ripe tannins, fine fruit, freshness and elegance, a very pleasant wine Château Clément Pichon Haut-Médoc 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Pleasant nose with aroma reminiscent of blackcurrants, plums, hints of mild spices and elegant toasting aroma. On the palate well balanced with ripe tannins and sweet fruit, convincing length, a charming wine Château Clerc-Milon Pauillac 94 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Aromatic nose, blackcurrants, mild spices, aromatic herbs, roasting aroma and hints of gingerbread spices in the background. On the palate well balanced with ripe tannins, juicy fruit and convincing length. A wine with high precision Château Clinet Pomerol 96 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Clinet goes classic with an expressive nose with ripe fruit reminiscent of blackberries, plums, dark cherries and hints of flowery aroma. Hints of liquorice and roasting aroma in the background. On the palate well balanced with good structure, ripe tannins, freshness and elegance, distinct minerality and excellent length Château Clos Badon Thunévin 2017 Château Clos Chaumont Cadillac / Côtes de Bordeaux Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 90 Deep purple red with violet hue and black core. Expressive nose, ripe blackberries, elderberries and a hint of blackberry-jam in the background, hints of toasting aroma, discreet spiciness, vanilla and a touch of gingerbread in the background. Convincing length, well structured with depth, mature tannins. A wine with a quite promising future. 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Quite closed character with restrained fruit, but slowly opening up. Dark cherries, blackberries and elderberries, discreet toasting aroma and hints of mild spices in the background. On the palate well structured, hints of liquorice, mild spics and dark berries. Tannins firm but well integrated, good length.

11 2017 Château Clos de Bouard Montagne Saint-Emilion 90 Dark purple red colour with violet hue. Excellent nose with elegant roasting aroma, dark chocolate, hints of gingerbread, blackberries, black cherries and sweet elderberries. On the palate well structured with ripe tannins, sweet fruit, elegant spiciness and complex flavour. A well balanced wine and although the vintage was more difficult than 2016 the wines shows a wonderful balance Château Clos de la Vieille Eglise 2017 Château Clos de l'oratoire 2017 Château Clos des Jacobins Pomerol 90 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Elegant and aromatic nose with fine fragrance. Ripe blackberries and discreet hints of violets and vanilla, toasting aroma in the background. On the palate well balanced with juicy character, ripe tannins and convincing length. A pleasant wine on the elegant side. Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 91 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Elegant however slightly closed nose, slowly displaying en elegant fruit. On the palate juicy fruit, firm tannins, well structured and well done, a wine with depth and length. 90 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Subtle nose with aroma reminiscent of dark berries and hints of cardamom. On the palate well balanced with ripe but tight tannins, sweet fruit and good length Château Clos du Clocher Pomerol 91 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Slightly closed nose, elegant roasting aroma, rather restrained fruit. On the palate sweet fruit and firm tannins, good length Château Clos Dubreuil Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 90 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Opulent, well concentrated style with expressive, spice driven nose and a good structure on the palate. Modern style on the palate, well concentrated with very firm tannins and good length Château Clos Fourtet Saint-Emilion 95 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Blackberries, plums and black cherries, sweet elderberries in the background, discreet roasting aroma, mild spices and hints of flowery notes in the background. On the palate classic style with ripe tannins, elegant fruit and persistent finish Château Clos Haut- Peyraguey Sauternes 93 Bright golden yellow colour. Closed character with restrained fruit, hints of yellow stone fruit and candied citrus fruit. On the palate restrained fruit, but juicy character, fine acidity and rich sweetness, good length. Castillon / Côtes de 88 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Restrained fruit and quite closed Bordeaux character. On the palate well structured but very closed Château Clos Puy Arnaud 2017 Château Clos René Pomerol 89 Dark purple red with violet hue. Subtle nose with restrained fruit, very closed character. On the palate ripe but firm tannins, hints of sweet fruit, medium bodied with good length.

12 2017 Château Cos d'estournel 2017 Château Cos d'estournel blanc Saint-Estèphe 97 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Excellent nose, initially quite closed, very complex fruit slowly opening up. Blackcurrants, elderberries, discreet flowery hints. On the palate well balanced, ripe tannins, elegant fruit and discreet flowery hints. A great classic style, excellent. Bordeaux 96 Bright yellow colour with green hue. Wonderful nose with aroma reminiscent of grapefruit, physalis, lemon peel, hints of lime in the background. Aromatic herbs in the background. On the palate well structured with crisp acidity, excellent length and depth Château Cos Labory Saint - Estèphe 91 Dark purple red colour with violet hue and almost black core. Expressive nose with ripe fruit, plums, blackberries and hints of mild spices, e.g. vanilla, cocoa and gingerbread. On the palate well balanced with ripe but firm tannins, succulent fruit, a very elegant and fresh style with good length Château Côte Montpezat Cuvée Compostelle Castillon / Côtes de Bordeaux 88 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Restrained fruit, elder berries, mulberries, discreet flowery aroma in the background. On the palate well structured on the elegant side, integrated tannins, discreet fruit in the finish, good length Château Coufran Haut - Médoc 88 Purple red with violet hue. Rather closed character, slowly opening up. Discreet fruit, hints of prunes and dark berries. On the palate well structured with firm tannins, ripe fruit and rather good length Château Couhins Lurton Pessac-Léognan 92 Dark purple red with violet hue. Fine nose with juicy fruit, blackcurrants and sweet elderberries. Discreet minerality in the background. On the palate juicy with good structure, depth and length Château Coutet Sauternes 96 Bright golden yellow colour. Elegant nose with wonderful aroma reminiscent of ripe Williams pear, juicy apricots, candied lemon peel and hints of saffron, complex and elegant. On the palate wonderful balance, elegant sweetness and fine acidity, excellent fruit, a wine with depth and length Château Couvent des Jacobins Saint-Emilion Premier Grand Cru 90 Deep purple red colour with violet hue and black core. Elegant nose with fine flowery and fruity aroma, hints of white blossoms and blackberries. On the palate well balanced with almost full-bodied character and good length Château Crabitey Graves 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Restrained fruit and hints of cold smoke are characterizing this wine, which is presenting itself very closed. On the palate well structured with ripe tannins, juicy fruit and good length Château Crabitey blanc Graves 87 Bright yellow colour with green hue. Pleasant nose with aroma reminiscent of peaches and grapefruit. On the palate mild acidity, medium bodied with medium length.

13 2017 Château Croix-Mouton Bordeaux 86 Dark purple red colour with violet hue. Elegant nose with fine fragrance, raspberries, blackberries and discreet spiciness. On the palate well balanced, ripe tannins, medium bodied with medium length Château Croizet-Bages Pauillac 92 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Aromatic nose, ripe blackberries and blackcurrants, plums, cocoa and hints of vanilla. On the palate well structured with juicy fruit and ripe tannins. A well balanced with good length Château d'aighuile Castillon / Côtes de Bordeaux 90 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Elegant an expressive nose with wonderful fruit, dark berries and ripe plums, dark chocolate and mild spices. On the palate well structured with firm tannins, juicy fruit and hints of mild spices. Wonderful length Château Dalem Fronsac 91 Deep purple red with violet hue and black core. Expressive nose with distinct toasting aroma, hints of cold smoke and graphite, backed by blackberries, blackcurrants and hints of elderberries. On the palate well structured with rich body, balanced tannins and convincing length Château d'arche Sauternes 92 Bright golden yellow colour. Aromatic nose reminiscent of honey, canned pineapple, ripe apricots and hints of angelica. On the palate elegant with well balanced sweetness and acidity, aromatic fruit and convincing length Château d'arcins Haut-Médoc 87 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Elegant but slightly closed nose with restrained fruit. On the palate well structured with firm tannins and a slightly dryish finish Château d'armailhac Pauillac 92 Dark purple red with violet hue. Very elegant nose, blackberries and blackcurrants, fine oak spices and discreet roasting aroma in the background. On the palate well balanced elegance and freshness, fine fruit with very good length Château d'arsac Margaux 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Aromatic herbs, ripe berries and hints of mild spices in combination with hints of earthy minerality. On the palate well structured with firm tannins, balanced by juicy fruit, good length Château Daugay Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 88 Dark purple red colour with violet hue. Fine nose with elegant fruit reminiscent of dark berries and hints mild spices. Discreet toasting aroma in the background. On the palate well structured with firm tannins, sweet fruit, medium bodied with good length Château Dauzac Margaux 92 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Ripe nose reminiscent of raspberries, toasted oak in the background, coffee and dark chocolate. On the palate well structured, fine acidity, ripe tannins, very elegant texture with good length.

14 2017 Château de Carles Fronsac 87 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Intense nose, hints of soy sauce, cherrystone and plums. Discreet spiciness in the background. On the palate medium bodied with medium length, tannins well integrated Château de Cassana Haut-Médoc 86 Dark purple red with violet hue. Restrained fruit and rather closed character. On the palate ripe tannins, freshness and pleasant fruit, medium bodied with well structured medium length Château de Cérons Graves 90 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Elegant nose with fragrant fruit, raspberries, blackcurrants and blackberries, hints of vanilla and dark chocolate in the background. On the palate elegant with juicy fruit, ripe tannins, freshness and good length Château de Cérons Cérons 91 Intense yellow colour with golden hue. Initially slightly reductive, the nose opens up towards candied citrus fruit, lemon peel, and tropical fruit in combination with the typical botrytis spiciness. On the palate elegant and rich with mild acidity, fine sweetness and flavour of Mirabelle and ripe yellow stone fruit. A wine with convincing length Château de Cérons blanc Graves 90 Bright yellow colour with green hue. Aromatic nose reminiscent of ripe tangerine, grapefruit, ripe peaches and fresh apricots. On the palate well structured with ripe fruit, crisp acidity and good length Château de Chambrun Lalande de Pomerol 88 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Spicy character and hints of aromatic herbs, balmy spices in the nose. On the palate aromatic herbs, lovage, ripe berries, firm tannins, medium bodied with good length Château de Cruzeau Pessac-Léognan 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. An elegant wine with an aromatically closed character but a good structure with ripe tannins, freshness and good length Château de Cruzeau Pessac-Léognan 89 Bright yellow colour with green hue. Expressive nose with aroma reminiscent of fresh tangerine, mint, lemon zest and ripe peaches. Hints of box tree and gooseberries in the background. On the palate juicy and well balanced with mild acidity, elegant fruit flavour and good length Château de Fargues Sauternes 93 Bright golden yellow colour. Opulent nose with aroma reminiscent of candied apricots and ripe pineapple, candied orange peel, hints of vanilla, honey and peach jam in the background. On the palate opulent sweetness and fine acidity, with good depth and length, confirming the fruit in the nose.

15 2017 Château de Ferrand Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 92 Deep purple red with violet hue and black core. Aromatic nose with elegant fruit reminiscent of blackcurrants and blackberries, in the background discreet flowery character, nicely balanced oak influence with discreet spiciness and hints of toasting aroma in the background. On the palate elegant yet rich character with ripe fruit, mild spices and very good balance. A convincing wine in a difficult vintage Château de France Pessac-Léognan 90 Dark purple red colour with violet hue. Expressive nose with meaty character, smoked ham, roasting aroma, backed by succulent fruit. On the palate well structured with freshness, firm tannins, balanced fruit and good length Château de Francs "Les Cerisiers" Francs / Côtes de Bordeaux 87 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. On the palate dry character, firm tannins, restrained fruit, medium length Château de Haut Coulon Cadillac / Côtes de Bordeaux 90 Deep purple red with violet hue and black core. Expressive nose with distinct oak spiciness, toasting aroma, Aromatic nose with elegant spiciness, hint of incense, elegant fruit, mulberries and sweet elderberries. On the palate well structured with ripe tannins, medium weight but very good length Château de la Dauphine Fronsac 90 Deep purple red with violet hue and black core. Elegant nose with balanced character, dark berries, plums, oak spices and hints pencil shavings. On the palate elegant, quite juicy with well balanced character and good length Château de la Rivière Fronsac 90 Deep purple red with violet hue and black core. Tightly woven nose with rather restrained fruit. On the palate juicy character, well structured and balanced tannins, convincing length. On the palate well balanced with firm tannins, rather medium bodied but with good length Château de Lamarque Haut-Médoc 90 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Elegant and expressive nose aroma reminiscent of blackcurrants, ripe cherries, cedar wood and hints of smoke. On the palate well structured with ripe tannins, full-bodied character with good length and balance Château de Malle Sauternes 92 Bright golden yellow colour. Elegant nose with distinct stone fruit character, aroma reminiscent of Mirabelle, ripe apricot, juicy pear. On the palate opulent sweetness and elegant acidity, lingering fruit in the finish, wonderful length, well balanced with depth Château de Malleret Haut - Médoc 88 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Fine nose with aroma reminiscent of dark berries, red berries and hints of dark chocolate in the background. On the palate juicy character, ripe tannins, sweet and aromatic fruit, discreet spiciness and good length.

16 2017 Château de Monbadon Castillon / Côtes de Bordeaux 87 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Ripe fruit reminiscent of dark berries, elderberries and mulberries, in the background discreet spiciness. On the palate well balanced with ripe fruit, mature tannins, medium bodied with good length Château de Myrat Barsac 94 Bright golden yellow colour. Aromatic and elegant nose with ripe fruit, fresh apricots, ripe pears and hints of mild spices. Candied angelica in the background. On the palate elegant with crisp acidity and well balanced sweetness, very good length. Château de Pez Saint - Estèphe 90 Dark purple red with violet hue. Very elegant nose with fine fruit, red and dark berries, hints of dark chocolate and fresh ground coffee, on the palate well structured with good length, ripe but firm tannins, freshness and elegance Château de Portets Graves 86 Dark purple red with violet hue. Ripe nose, blackcurrants and discreet roasting aroma. Quite juicy start on the palate, rather discreet mid-palate and medium length. Pleasant style Château de Portets blanc 2017 Château de Pressac Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Graves 86 Bright yellow colour with green hue. Reductive nose with grapefruit and citrus aroma. On the palate medium bodied with medium length, hints of citrus fruit, slightly reductive also on the palate. 92 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Deep purple red with violet hue and black core. Rich and aromatic nose with almost balmy spiciness, ripe fruit, quite complex however still more closed on the nose than on the palate. Mature tannins, excellent structure and good concentration, wonderful balance. A wine with depth and length from a Château having made enormous progress over the last decade Château de Rochemorin Pessac-Léognan 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Elegant and persistent nose with fine fragrance reminiscent of blackberries, sweet elder berries, blackcurrants and roasting aroma. On the palate elegant, rather medium bodied but with a good length Château de Rochemorin blanc Pessac-Léognan 89 Bright yellow colour with green hue. Elegant aroma reminiscent of grapefruit, fresh peaches, lemon zest and hints of tangerine. On the palate well balanced with lemon zest and tangerine, juicy finish with fine acidity and good length Château Desmirail Margaux 93 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Elegant roasting aroma, fine fruit, ripe berries and cherries, hints of minerality. On the palate rich character, roasting flavour, dark chocolate, coffee and hints of cold smoke. Tight but ripe tannins, very good structure and length.

17 2017 Château Destieux Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 90 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Opulent nose with distinct smoky character, pencil shavings, roasting aroma, oak spices, backed by juicy fruit reminiscent of plums, black cherries and dark berries. On the palate quite rich with well balanced tannins and good length Château d'issan Margaux 94 Deep purple red colour with violet hue. Very elegant with flowery aroma, red and dark berries, discreet spiciness and fine roasting aroma in the background. On the palate very elegant and persistent, great length, very fine with silky texture and excellent length Château Doisy Däne Barsac 95 Intense yellow with golden hue. Initially slightly closed, the nose opens up towards elegant fruit reminiscent of Mirabelle and apricots, ripe pineapple and tropical fruit. On the palate well balanced with distinct sweetness, fine acidity and lingering fruit in the finish Château Doisy Védrines Barsac 94 Intense yellow with golden hue. Elegant nose with aroma reminiscent of candied angelica, honey, ripe apricots and greengage, hints of tropical fruit in the background. On the palate well structured with excellent balance of sweetness and acidity, very good length, a wonderful, very classic Barsac Château du Breuil Haut-Médoc 88 Dark purple red with violet hue. Elegant nose with fine fruit, blackberries, blackcurrants, a touch of roasting aroma in the background. On the palate silky texture, ripe tannins, fine acidity, excellent fruit, wonderful finish with good length Château du Cartillon Haut-Médoc 88 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Concentrated nose but with slightly closed character. Restrained fruit, elegant roasting aroma and hints of mild spices in the background. On the palate juicy fruit, ripe tannins, well structured with good length Château du Cros Loupiac 87 Bright golden yellow colour. Aromatic nose, apricots and candied orange peel, vanilla in the background. On the palate opulent fruit and a hint of botrytis, opulent sweetness and medium length Château du Domaine de Pomerol 94 Purple red with violet hue. Elegant and expressive nose, fine fruit, well expressed, great l'eglise length with wonderful density, elegance and ripe tannins, a great wine Château du Glana Saint-Julien 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Elegant nose with fragrant fruit discreet spiciness. On the palate elegant with ripe tannins and fine acidity, delicate fruit and good length Château du Parc Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 87 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Quite powerful start on the nose, however not followed by the taste.

18 2017 Château du Rocher Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 87 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Fragrant fruit, quite precise aroma reminiscent of blackcurrants and blackberries. Discreet spiciness in the background. On the palate ripe tannins, juicy fruit, well structured medium length and pleasant mouthfeel Château du Tertre Margaux 92 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Elegant nose with very fine fruit, blackberries, blackcurrants and raspberries. On the palate elegant with fine structure ripe tannins, juicy berries, a wine with freshness and elegance in a classic style. Very good length Château Ducru- Beaucaillou 2017 Château Duhart-Milon Rothschild Saint-Julien 98 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Very expressive nose with great fruit of dark berries and dark stone fruit. Elegant roasting aroma and hints of balmy spices, gingerbread. On the palate well structured with excellent balance, ripe tannins, fine acidity, impressing length. A great wine with finesse and precision, depth and incredible length, powerful and elegant in the same time. Pauillac 93 Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black core. Very aromatic and expressive nose with blackberries, dewberries, hints of elderberries. Very elegant spiciness in the background. On the palate well balanced with ripe tannins, juicy fruit, almost balmy character with convincing length Château d'yquem Sauternes 99 Bright golden yellow colour. Elegant and expressive nose, Williams pear, apricots and peaches, candied lemon peel, hints of candied orange zest, hints of vanilla in the background. Very pure and precise, with opulent sweetness and fine acidity, perfect balance and excellent length, lingering fruit reminiscent of Williams pear, yellow stone fruit and hints of mild spices. A great wine with enormous potential Château Evangile Pomerol 98 A wine with 100% Merlot with a dark purple colour with violet hue and almost black core. Excellent fruit, blackberries, black cherries, discreet hints of vanilla, gingerbread spices, hints of violets in the background. On the palate mature tannins, wonderful sweet fruit, excellent length with lingering mild spices and liquorice. A great wine with depth and wonderful tension creating a real class Château Faugères Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 91 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Expressive nose with distinct roasting aroma, elegant fruit, dark berries and plums. On the palate well balanced with ripe tannins, freshness and elegance, persistent finish Château Fayat Pomerol 89 Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. The nose is quite closed, rather restrained fruit with hints of blackberries, black cherries and elderberries. On the palate rather elegant style, elegant fruit, discreet spiciness, firm tannins and good length.