Chateau Lafon-Rochet 2018

Critical Acclaim: 95 pts Wine Enthusiast; 94 pts Decanter; 94 pts James Suckling; 92 pts Wine Spectator; 91 pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate. Winemaker's Tasting Notes: An expressive nose, on freshness, with crunchy ripped fruits, red berries (blackcurrant, strawberry,  raspberry). A clear attack, fresh with spreading tannins and a  fine structure. Smooth and complex finale with a lovely fruity aromatic aftertaste, cinnamon. "This wine comes from an estate that is performing with distinction. It is rich, the tannins cushioned by ripe blackberry fruits and good acidity. Showing both structure and fruitiness, the wine will develop well, everything in balance."- Wine Enthusiast.  "Smoke and grilled cedar on the nose. Clearly ambitious, this is good-quality, with plenty of power and forward motion, depth of liquorice and a Bendicks Mint feel of bitter chocolate and mint. Precision, depth and power, with years ahead of it, if closed and a little austere right now. Brilliant value among the classifieds."- Decanter.  "Blackberry and blueberry on the nose, as well as dark-chocolate, mineral and earthy undertones. It's full-bodied with firm tannins. Fleshy and savory texture with layers. Flavorful finish and beautiful length. Lovely ripe fruit in the center palate."- James Suckling.  "Seductive, with a gush of dark plum and blackberry preserve notes leading off, while light bay, dark tobacco and charcoal notes peek through. Has a racy edge through the finish, even with the warm fruit keeping the upper hand. Nicely done. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc."- Wine Spectator.  "Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Lafon-Rochet delivers impactful scents of baked blackberries, warm cassis and black cherry compote, with suggestions of chargrill, tar and tobacco leaf, plus a waft of wild mushrooms. The medium to full-bodied palate is laden with black fruit preserves and earthy accents, supported by firm, chewy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing with great length, if a little chewy."- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate.  Varietal: 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot and 4% Cabernet Franc.