Wine Spectator
96 Points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator: "Distinctive, with atypical (for St.-Emilion) force and drive to the black currant, roasted cedar and maduro tobacco flavors, which are supported by a dense, loam-tinged structure. Terrific roasted espresso, ganache and fig paste notes wait in reserve. Very muscular, but with the cut for balance. Best from 2017 through 2035. 9,200 cases made." 03/12
Decanter
97 Points, Jane Anson, Decanter: "This is an excellent vintage to drink now, with huge amounts of liquorice, cedar, crème caramel, bilberry and black cherry, with a fleshy texture to the fruit but just starting to show more tertiary notes of earth, crushed stone and soft mint on the finish. Feels like the pefect Right Bank take on a Left Bank, generous and open but with a steely core and tannins that remain sure to take this wine forward over many decades to come. This was Thierry Manoncourt's last full vintage, as he died in 2010 (his first had been 1947). " 03/17

Expert tasting note: "Deep, dark, not quite opaque ruby-red color, holds well to the rim. There are vivid Cabernet Franc aromas of leafy cassis & menthol on the nose. The palate is open & fresh with lovely fine tannins, but the lively red-fruit core is still to properly open. The oak is clean & toasty, alcohol is well in balance & the finish is very long." - 11/13 DCAMW