Michael Schuster: (Alexandre emphasized that the 2009 VCC was not yet assembled, so this is an approximate blend.) Subtly ripe nose, restrained, mineral-tinged, plummy Merlot; fairly full-bodied, elegantly balanced, plush, and finely tannic wine; a long, rich, complex blend of ripe fruit and minerality, density and class; packed with flavor, effortlessly mouth-filling, and, like the best of the 2009s, with a wonderful freshness. Great, fruit-fragrant, mineral-tinged length. A velvety, complete VCC. 2020–40. 18/18.5

Michel Bettane and Thierry Desseauve: Wonderfully refined texture, superb attack, suave and satiny, opening up with a soft touch, elegant and silky with notes of violets and fresh black fruit. Made from 84% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, the tannins are savory and persistent. 18.5