Michel Bettane and Thierry Desseauve: Firm and vinous with nicely assertive truffly/violet/forest-floor aromas, but a tad thin in texture and lacking distinguished tannins. 14.5

Margaret Rand: Rich texture, plenty of ripe tannins on the palate, though the finish is just a touch dry. Tight and quite chewy. 17

Michael Schuster: Deep purple. Ripe, leathery Merlot on the nose. Lovely Pomerol balance: rich and fleshy with a fine, firm tannin; and the essence of Pomerol to taste. Ripe-fruited, creamy wine, exotically spiced, perfumed Merlot with a fine minerality behind it. Long across the palate, long and fine to finish. Flattering and delicious. 17