Michael Schuster: Deepish purple—not that saturated. Fine, moderately intense nose, quite minerally; this is a medium-full, moderately concentrated wine, with fine tannin and fresh acidity—all the hallmarks of 2009, that is, except density. Fresh, vital, juicy, and fine rather than particularly rich, with a nice length in the mouth, quite aromatic, a touch of herbaceousness, and good, light length. Good wine, yes, but underperforming for a second growth, especially in this vintage. All that said, it will probably be very fair value. 2020–35. 16/16+?

Michel Bettane and Thierry Desseauve: Black color, surprisingly fresh fragrance, wonderfully formal texture, and a perfect balance between the regal body and harmonious underlying tannin; great length. Without a doubt, one of the top wines of the Médoc. 19