SF | Densely pigmented, a deep ruby, near opaque at the core; a classic Comtesse nose, red fruit, soft spice, gravel and sandalwood to the fore; the initial impression graduating to the palate which rejoices in generous but not overbearing tannins, finely grained and quietly assertive and an youthful structural integrity which bodes well for a long, fascinating development,. A the Countess gets closer to the natural backdrop , her wines comes ever more fascinating; the 2020 is a great success. 97
AJ | Saturated midnight-black; opaque. Sweet, fresh, warm and enchanting, this is always the wine that glides towards you if you happen to dream about the Medoc at night. Never are blackcurrants more tenderly fragrant than here, but don't forget the pepper and spice from the Petit Verdot. A wonderful elixir of liqueur-like aroma, and it seems to suit the vintage right down to the ground: resonant, articulate, packed with poised ripeness. Just a gorgeous perfume, and one of the finest aromas of the year. You want to sniff for half-an-hour. It is barely less wondrous on the palate. I found it hard to believe, after the Reserve, that the Grand Vin could be any more aromatic -- but sure enough it is: a kind of depth-charge of aroma, filling your palate-sky with spices, with dried citrus peels, with creamy lavender and with blackcurrant liqueur. It's not all aroma: there is a cascade of fruit, too, and svelte tannins. The acidity helps give life to all the aromatics, and it underscores the freshness of the vintage. Truly a dazzling performance here. A wine to still conversation whenever it is served ...Drink Dates: 2026 - 2052.