SF | Dense of hue, but, as always, with a pleasing 'earthy 'aromatic, its organic backdrop ensuring that the excesses of the vintage, metreologically speaking , have been overcome. Always somewhat sui generis in the Pauillac firmament, HBL performs well in 2020, with a long, resonant finish particularly impressive.... 93
AJ | Dark black-red. Soft, curranty and fresh, but not much more than that ... pleasant though it is. Ditto on the palate. A lovely glass of wine, in truth, and an excellent example of Pauillac in 2020. It has depth and drive; the tannins are exciting; it will last well. Lovely classicism and drinkability, in sum, and I'd always be happy to share a bottle. It doesn't overcome some of the inner rawness of the vintage, and it doesn't have the precision and finesse to unhook a high 90s score, but it will always please and satisfy. (And I appreciate the oak discretion, too.)Drink Dates: 2026 - 2036.