Posted: Friday, March 30, 2007
Updated April 3: These 2006 Bordeaux barrel samples were tasted by James Suckling on location in Bordeaux. The wines on this page are grouped by appellation.
Blaye |
|
| CHÂTEAU MONTFOLLET Blaye 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with clean black currant and oak character and a good core of fruit. —J.S. | |
Bordeaux |
|
| CHÂTEAU BONNET Bordeaux Réserve 2006 | 85-88 |
| Has a solid core of fruit, with plenty of spice and berry character. This is juicy, with a medium finish. Well done for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU COUR D'ARGENT Bordeaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with a good core of fruit, light tannins and a clean finish. Good for this appellation in this vintage. —J.S. | |
| DIVINUS DE CHÂTEAU BONNET Bordeaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| A little austere, with angular tannins, but this also shows some good plum and currant fruit. Medium-bodied. —J.S. | |
| GIROLATE Bordeaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Has plum jam character, with a soft, medium body and a fruity finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TOUR DE MIRAMBEAU Bordeaux Cuvée Passion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with good currant and berry character, a silky mouthfeel and a fruity finish. Turns slightly metallic. —J.S. | |
| ARTE Bordeaux 2006 | 80-84 |
| Light and very simple, with some fruit. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU COMPASSANT Bordeaux 2006 | 80-84 |
| Medium-bodied, with clean fruit and a light finish. A bit thin. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DE FONTENILLE Bordeaux 2006 | 80-84 |
| A bit short, but with some attractive berry character. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU RAUZAN-DESPAGNE Bordeaux 2006 | 80-84 |
| Simple, with some fresh blackberry character. Watery. —J.S. | |
Bordeaux Supérieur |
|
| CHÂTEAU GRAND VILLAGE Bordeaux Supérieur 2006 | 85-88 |
| Soft and fruity for the vintage. Medium-bodied, with friendly tannins and good fruit. —J.S. | |
| LA CHAPELLE D'ALIENOR Bordeaux Supérieur 2006 | 80-84 |
| Has light fruit, with some dried herb and berry character. Diluted. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU FLEUR-ST.-ANTOINE Bordeaux Supérieur 2006 | 80-84 |
| Shows some black fruit character, with a hollow center palate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LE GRAND VERDUS Bordeaux Supérieur Grande Réserve 2006 | 80-84 |
| Has some black currant character. A bit thin, turning austere on the finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PEY LA TOUR Bordeaux Supérieur Réserve du Château 2006 | 80-84 |
| There's some berry to this, but it's light and diluted, with slightly astringent tannins and acidity. —J.S. | |
| PRESTIGE DE RIBEBON Bordeaux Supérieur 2006 | 80-84 |
| Clean, with good berry character and silky tannins, but falls a little short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DE ROUGERIE Bordeaux Supérieur 2006 | 80-84 |
| There's some greenness to this wine, with coffee bean and fruit character. Medium-bodied, with a short finish. —J.S. | |
Canon-Fronsac |
|
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-BALLET Canon-Fronsac 2006 | 85-88 |
| Offers some good jammy fruit character, with slightly chewy tannins. Medium-bodied, but a bit disjointed. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-MAZERIS Canon-Fronsac 2006 | 85-88 |
| Light and a bit hollow, but there's a decent core of plummy fruit. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU VRAI CANON BOUCHÉ Canon-Fronsac 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows some berry and mineral character, with a medium body. A little loosely knit. —J.S. | |
Côtes de Castillon |
|
| DOMAINE DE L'A Côtes de Castillon 2006 | 85-88 |
| Balanced and fruity, with mineral, berry and cherry character. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a slightly hollow midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU D'AIGUILHE Côtes de Castillon 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows bright berry and mineral fruit character. Medium-bodied, with firm tannins and a medium finish. Slightly hollow midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CAP DE FAUGÈRES Côtes de Castillon 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with some berry and mineral character and a good finish. Could use a little more midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CLOS LES LUNELLES Côtes de Castillon 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows attractive plummy character, with a medium body, fine tannins and a short finish. A bit hollow. —J.S. | |
| CLOS PUY ARNAUD Côtes de Castillon 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows some berry character, with a hint of raisin. Medium-bodied, with soft tannins and a delicate finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CÔTE MONTPEZAT Côtes de Castillon Cuvée Compostelle 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with clean berry and mineral character, fine tannins and a medium finish. Slightly hollow. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU JOANIN BÉCOT Côtes de Castillon 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with fresh berry and a hint of chocolate. Slightly hollow, but tasty. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU STE.-COLOMBE Côtes de Castillon 2006 | 85-88 |
| A fresh wine, with mineral and berry character. Medium- to light-bodied, with a simple finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA VIOLETTE Côtes de Castillon 2006 | 85-88 |
| Plummy and fruity, with strawberry and milk chocolate character. Medium-bodied, with a light finish. —J.S. | |
| CLOS L'ÉGLISE Côtes de Castillon 2006 | 80-84 |
| Shows some berry fruit, with hints of mineral, but turns a little lean. Short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HYOT Côtes de Castillon 2006 | 80-84 |
| Offers some nice fruit, but this is a bit herbaceous. Medium-bodied, with a short finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LAGRAVE-AUBERT Côtes de Castillon Vanessa Aubert Selection 2006 | 80-84 |
| A bit lean and diluted, but with some clean fruit and mineral character. —J.S. | |
Côtes de Francs |
|
| CHÂTEAU PUYGUERAUD Côtes de Francs Cuvée George 2006 | 89-91 |
| This is rich and caressing, with plenty of blackberry and mineral character. Full, with velvety tannins and a medium-to-long finish. 40 percent Malbec, 40 percent Cabernet Franc and 20 percent Merlot. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MARSAU Côtes de Francs 2006 | 85-88 |
| Has some decent berry and oak character. Medium-bodied. A bit hollow. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA PRADE Côtes de Francs 2006 | 85-88 |
| Very good for the vintage, with soft, caressing tannins, plenty of good fruit and a medium finish. Balanced and rich. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PUYGUERAUD Côtes de Francs 2006 | 85-88 |
| This is fruity, with berry, light toasty oak and coffee. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium finish. A little hollow, but nicely done. —J.S. | |
Fronsac |
|
| CHÂTEAU FONTENIL Fronsac 2006 | 85-88 |
| Has a good core of blackberry and mineral. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium finish. Clean and focused for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| HAUT-CARLES Fronsac 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with berries and fresh herbs and a slightly astringent finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU RICHELIEU Fronsac La Favorite 2006 | 85-88 |
| A medium-bodied red, with black currant character that coats the firm tannins. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA ROUSSELLE Fronsac 2006 | 80-84 |
| Shows some berry and a hint of coffee. Medium-bodied. A bit diluted. —J.S. | |
Graves |
|
| CHÂTEAU DE L'HOSPITAL Graves 2006 | 80-84 |
| The tannins are angular, but this is clean, with some fruit. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU VILLA BEL-AIR Graves 2006 | 80-84 |
| Berry and light leafy character. Medium-bodied, with medium tannins and a light finish. —J.S. | |
Haut-Médoc |
|
| CHÂTEAU D'AGASSAC Haut-Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some berry and mineral character, with a hint of cedar. Medium body, fine tannins and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU D'ARCINS Haut-Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Offers some clean currant character. Medium-bodied, with a light pull on the finish. Just a bit hollow. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BELGRAVE Haut-Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Pleasant, medium-bodied red, with bright berry and licorice character. Silky and elegant. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BELLE-VUE Haut-Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows currant and a hint of tobacco on a medium body, with fine tannins and good fruit on the finish. The tannins are slightly angular. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BERNADOTTE Haut-Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Plenty of good fruit. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Pleasant. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DUTHIL Haut-Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Has some berry and currant character, with hints of leaves. Medium-bodied, with delicate tannins and a medium finish. Slightly short midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA LAGUNE Haut-Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Floral and fruity, with medium body, silky tannins and a medium finish. Needs a bit more on the midpalate. Clean. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MALESCASSE Haut-Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Pleasant and fruity, with fine tannins and a juicy, fruity palate. Friendly wine. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DU MOULIN Haut-Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Solid core of fruit for the vintage, with velvety tannins and a medium finish. Falls a little short in the end. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PALOUMEY Haut-Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Solid core of fruit, with plum and currant character. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a medium finish. I like this better than the 2005 barrel sample I tasted last year. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU SÉNÉJAC Haut-Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| A layered young wine, with currant and berry character. Medium-to-full body, velvety tannins and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU SOCIANDO-MALLET Haut-Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Lots of fresh currant and berry character. Full-bodied, with very bright acidity and slightly astringent tannins. Wait and see. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA TOUR CARNET Haut-Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some berry and mineral character. Medium-bodied, with firm tannins and a short finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA TOUR CARNET Haut-Médoc Servitude Volontaire 2006 | 85-88 |
| Well-made, with licorice, berry character. Medium- to full-bodied, and velvety, with a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHAPELLE DE POTENSAC Haut-Médoc 2006 | 80-84 |
| Some currant and berry character. Clean fruit but falls short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CITRAN Haut-Médoc 2006 | 80-84 |
| Berry and light currant character, with some fresh herbs. Medium body, chewy tannins and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CLÉMENT PICHON Haut-Médoc 2006 | 80-84 |
| Light and a little astringent, with some peppery currant character. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CORNELLE Haut-Médoc 2006 | 80-84 |
| Light and fruity, but not much there. Clean. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LIEUJEAN Haut-Médoc 2006 | 80-84 |
| Very light, with some fruit. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LIVERSAN Haut-Médoc 2006 | 80-84 |
| Some floral and berry character. Clean, but a bit watery and astringent. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU REYSSON Haut-Médoc Réserve du Château 2006 | 80-84 |
| Some currant and fresh herb character. Medium body. Bit short on the finish. Almost 85-88. —J.S. | |
Lalande-de-Pomerol |
|
| L'AMBROISIE DU CHÂTEAU LA CROIX DES MOINES Lalande-de-Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows clean berry and toasty oak character. Medium-bodied and a little short, but well done for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| BONNES RIVES Lalande-de-Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Good for the appellation, but a little diluted, with fine tannins and a medium body. —J.S. | |
| DOMAINE FAYAT-THUNEVIN Lalande-de-Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Offers some black currant and licorice, but this is short, with slightly astringent tannins. —J.S. | |
| LA FLEUR DE BOÜARD Lalande-de-Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with good berry and mineral character, clean fruit and a delicate, silky finish. —J.S. | |
| LA FLEUR DE BOÜARD Lalande-de-Pomerol Le Plus 2006 | 85-88 |
| Offers attractive flavors of chocolate, berry and coffee. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA GRAVIÈRE Lalande-de-Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Attractive, with berry and cherry character, a medium body and a soft, fruity finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA SERGUE Lalande-de-Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| This is good for the vintage and the appellation, with soft tannins, a medium body and clean flavors. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU L'ANCIEN Lalande-de-Pomerol 2006 | 80-84 |
| A little diluted, but shows some clean berry and mineral character. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LES CRUZELLES Lalande-de-Pomerol 2006 | 80-84 |
| Shows berry and chocolate character, with a medium body and a short finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GARRAUD Lalande-de-Pomerol 2006 | 80-84 |
| Medium-bodied, with lean berry and tobacco character and a short finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-CHAIGNEAU Lalande-de-Pomerol 2006 | 80-84 |
| Rather thin, with some herbal and berry character. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU JEAN DE GUE Lalande-de-Pomerol Cuvée Prestige 2006 | 80-84 |
| Has some berry and herb character. Medium-bodied, with a short finish. —J.S. | |
| DOMAINE DES SABINES Lalande-de-Pomerol 2006 | 80-84 |
| Medium-bodied, with some clean black fruit and minty herb character. Slightly diluted. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU SIAURAC Lalande-de-Pomerol 2006 | 80-84 |
| This is very light, with some berry and earth character and a short finish. —J.S. | |
Lussac-St.-Emilion |
|
| CHÂTEAU DE BARBE BLANCHE Lussac-St.-Emilion Réserve 2006 | 89-91 |
| Has attractive blackberry and currant character, with hints of leaves. Full-bodied, with a good core of fruit and silky tannins. Well done. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DE LUSSAC Lussac-St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Simple but good, with light berry and mineral character and silky tannins. —J.S. | |
Margaux |
|
| CHÂTEAU MARGAUX Margaux 2006 | 95-100 |
| Very powerful and rich. Fantastic. Full, silky and structured. Yet layered and rich, with loads of mineral, violet and coffee character. Incredible. So much finesse in the nose. What a wine. Similar to the 1995, which received 100 points. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MALESCOT-ST.-EXUPÉRY Margaux 2006 | 92-94 |
| Lots of blackberry and spice character, with chocolate undertones. Full-bodied, with lovely fine tannins and a long finish. A textbook claret, with refinement yet power. Love the touch of sweet fruit on the end. Almost Burgundian. Lovely and pretty. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PALMER Margaux 2006 | 92-94 |
| Gorgeous nose, with violet, currant and berry, and a vanilla undertone. Full-bodied, with a solid core of ripe fruit and supersilky tannins. Long and rich. Wonderful wine. Love the balance. Almost 95-100. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU RAUZAN-SÉGLA Margaux 2006 | 92-94 |
| Lovely fresh aromas of currant and blackberry. Full-bodied, with succulent fruit and lovely finesse and length. Gorgeous. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MARQUIS-D'ALESME-BECKER Margaux 2006 | 89-91 |
| Shows lots of richness, with plenty of fruit and round, silky tannins. Full body. Long finish. Impressive. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU D'ANGLUDET Margaux 2006 | 89-91 |
| Lots of blackberry and licorice character follows through to a full-bodied palate, with silky tannins and a medium finish. Well done. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BRANE-CANTENAC Margaux 2006 | 89-91 |
| Balanced and pretty, with plum and currant. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium-long finish. All in finesse. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CANTENAC-BROWN Margaux 2006 | 89-91 |
| Impressive blackberry and mineral aromas. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a medium finish. A little hollow, but I like it. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DAUZAC Margaux 2006 | 89-91 |
| Wonderful perfumes, with floral and berry character. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and a long silky-textured finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GISCOURS Margaux 2006 | 89-91 |
| Lots of grapey, fruity character, with medium to full body, mineral and berry character. Little lean, but balanced and pretty. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA GURGUE Margaux 2006 | 89-91 |
| Soft and velvety, with plum and mineral character. Full body. Medium finish. A little disjointed now, but shows potential, especially for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LABÉGORCE Margaux 2006 | 89-91 |
| Pretty plummy. Currant aromas follow through to a full-bodied palate, with chewy tannins and a long persistent finish. Structured. Very well done from this estate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PALMER Margaux Alter Ego 2006 | 89-91 |
| Spicy and delicious. Shows loads of fruit, with fine tannins and a long finish. Very pretty and juicy. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PRIEURÉ-LICHINE Margaux 2006 | 89-91 |
| Silky, with mineral and currant character, medium body and a fresh finish. Long and caressing. Well done. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA BESSANE Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Berry and currant character, with velvety tannins, but turns a slightly austere. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BOYD-CANTENAC Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Balanced and silky, with a medium-to-full body, fine tannins and medium finish. Slightly hollow midpalate. Clean. —J.S. | |
| LE BARON DE BRANE Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Clean and fruity, with plum and cherry character, medium body and a light finish. Fresh. Second wine of Brane-Cantenac. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CHANTELUNE Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some berry and chocolate character. Medium to full body and a medium finish. Sample seems a little tired. —J.S. | |
| CLOS MARGALAINE Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some berry and dried herb character. Tannins are a little austere. Medium, chewy finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DURFORT-VIVENS Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Chocolate, with fresh herb and berry qualities. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU FERRIÈRE Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| A little diluted on the midpalate, with berry and currant character. Medium body and a delicate finish. Clean and caressing. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU D'ISSAN Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Lots of plummy fruit. Hints of violet follow through to a full body, with chewy tannins and a medium finish. Slightly hollow midpalate, but pretty. Almost 89-91. Let's wait and see. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU KIRWAN Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Berry and currant character. Full-bodied, with firm tannins and a medium finish. Needs a bit more on the center palate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LABÉGORCE-ZÉDÉ Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some good berry and tobacco character in this medium- to full-bodied red, with slightly austere tannins on the finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LASCOMBES Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Lots of ripe fruit and coffee on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a tobacco, berry aftertaste. Slightly austere tannins. —J.S. | |
| MAROJALLIA Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some berry and mineral character, with a medium body and fine tannins. Chewy but stylish, with a medium finish. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MONBRISON Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some berry, mineral and fruit character, with slightly austere tannins. Medium- to full-bodied. Medium finish. —J.S. | |
| PAVILLON ROUGE DU CHÂTEAU MARGAUX Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Very fruity, mineral and raspberry character. Full and silky, with fine tannins. Slightly hollow midpalate. Yet long and sweet fruit and firm tannins. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU POUGET Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some mineral and currant character. Medium body and a light finish. Short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU SIRAN Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| A cool wine, with currant and mineral character, medium body and a medium finish. Slightly angular tannins. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DU TERTRE Margaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some berry fruit, with fine tannins and a medium finish. A little diluted on the midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BELLEVUE DE TAYAC Margaux 2006 | 80-84 |
| Some pretty floral and currant notes. Medium-bodied, turning a bit dry. —J.S. | |
| BLASON D'ISSAN Margaux 2006 | 80-84 |
| Soft and round with some berry and coffee bean character. Medium- to full-bodied, with soft tannins and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MARQUIS DE TERME Margaux 2006 | 80-84 |
| Some pleasant berry and currant character but rather light and short. Turns bitter. —J.S. | |
Médoc |
|
| GOULÉE Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Soft and fruity, with plum and coffee character. Medium-to-full body and a medium finish. Like the texture. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-MAURAC Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some pleasant berry and fresh herb character. Round and juicy, with a lightly firm finish. —J.S. | |
| MAGREZ TIVOLI Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Good aromas and flavors of plums, berries and flowers. Medium- to full-bodied and velvety, with a fruity, medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU POTENSAC Médoc 2006 | 85-88 |
| Very attractive mineral, berry and violet character that follows through to a medium- to full-bodied palate, with firm tannins and a medium finish. A little hollow on the midpalate, but very pleasing. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LES GRANDS CHÊNES Médoc 2006 | 80-84 |
| There's some clean fruit character, but this finishes a bit austere and lean. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LACOMBE-NOAILLAC Médoc 2006 | 80-84 |
| Some berry character, but a bit meager and diluted. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LOUDENNE Médoc 2006 | 80-84 |
| Some nice berry and currant here, but a bit thin on the palate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PATACHE D'AUX Médoc 2006 | 80-84 |
| Some berry and vanilla character, but a bit hollow and diluted. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PREUILLAC Médoc 2006 | 80-84 |
| Some clean currant and mineral fruit, but rather austere and mouthpuckering. Wait and see. —J.S. | |
Montagne-St.-Emilion |
|
| CHÂTEAU BEAUSÉJOUR Montagne-St.-Emilion 1901 2006 | 85-88 |
| Offers some berry character, with a hint of mineral and light coffee. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a hollow midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MESSILE AUBERT Montagne-St.-Emilion Heloïse Aubert Selection 2006 | 85-88 |
| Displays earthy black fruit and fresh herb aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, with a lightly firm finish. —J.S. | |
| VIEUX CHÂTEAU PALON Montagne-St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows good fresh fruit, with blackberry character and silky tannins. Pleasing already. Good for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BEAUSÉJOUR Montagne-St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Light and fruity, with some fresh berry character. Almost 85-88. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA PAPETERIE Montagne-St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Shows some berry character, with earthy undertones. Medium-bodied, with a very short finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TREYTINS Montagne-St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| A soft, medium-bodied red, with berry and light fresh herbs. —J.S. | |
Moulis |
|
| CHÂTEAU BRILLETTE Moulis 2006 | 85-88 |
| Blackberry and light licorice. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Just slightly hollow midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CHASSE-SPLEEN Moulis 2006 | 85-88 |
| Floral and fruity, with a medium body, refined tannins and a crisp finish. A little austere, but a friendly claret. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA GARRICQ Moulis 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some berry and spice character. Medium-bodied, with firm tannins and a medium finish. Little hollow. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU POUJEAUX Moulis 2006 | 85-88 |
| Lots of smoke, berry and spice character on the nose. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long finish. Slightly aggressive in the end. But should come around. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BRANAS GRAND POUJEAUX Moulis 2006 | 80-84 |
| Diluted but clean, with berry and light currant character. —J.S. | |
Pauillac |
|
| CHÂTEAU LATOUR Pauillac 2006 | 95-100 |
| Very long. Wonderful licorice, berry and currant character. Full and silky, beautiful and pure. This is really distinguished. Feminine but strong. Classic Bordeaux style. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MOUTON-ROTHSCHILD Pauillac 2006 | 95-100 |
| Gorgeous aromas of currant, raspberry and mineral. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins. Long and caressing, building on the palate. Very pretty, very elegant. Subtle and seductive. This could be better than 2005. Wait and see. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-BAGES-LIBÉRAL Pauillac 2006 | 92-94 |
| Beautiful nose of ripe blackberry and currant. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long finish. Very well done. Impressive. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LAFITE ROTHSCHILD Pauillac 2006 | 92-94 |
| Racy and long, with beautiful blackberry and light coffee character and a licorice undertone. Full and racy, with a long, long finish. Structured and powerful, yet builds on the palate. Close to 95-100. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LYNCH-BAGES Pauillac 2006 | 92-94 |
| Shows very good concentration of currant and berry fruit. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, fruity finish. Solid core of everything. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PONTET-CANET Pauillac 2006 | 92-94 |
| Big and rich, with lots of round and velvety tannins. Full-bodied and very ripe, with a long flavorful finish. A beauty. Voluptuous for the vintage, with lots of currant and berry character. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU D'ARMAILHAC Pauillac 2006 | 89-91 |
| Lovely licorice and currant aromas follow through to a medium- to full-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a soft, fruity finish. Nicely done for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CLERC MILON Pauillac 2006 | 89-91 |
| Very good amount of plum and chocolate character on the nose and palate. Medium- to full-bodied, with silky tannins. Medium finish. Pretty core of fruit. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DUHART-MILON ROTHSCHILD Pauillac 2006 | 89-91 |
| Really well done, with lots of licorice and fruity character. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long flavorful finish. Close to 92-94. —J.S. | |
| LES FORTS DE LATOUR Pauillac 2006 | 89-91 |
| Very solid, with an excellent core of fruit and chewy tannins, but not too aggressive. Full body. Medium finish. Well done. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GRAND-PUY-LACOSTE Pauillac 2006 | 89-91 |
| A clean young wine, with fine, silky tannins, good focused fruit and a medium-to-long finish. Caressing and refined. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-BATAILLEY Pauillac 2006 | 89-91 |
| Fresh and fruity, with good acidity and a clean berry aftertaste. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Long. Very good for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LYNCH-MOUSSAS Pauillac 2006 | 89-91 |
| Really attractive, with a pretty core of ripe fruit, coffee and spice character. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long caressing finish. Very well done. Almost 92-94. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PIBRAN Pauillac 2006 | 89-91 |
| Serious concentration of fruit, with currant, plum and mineral character. Full body, silky tannins and a long finish. Well done. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PICHON-LONGUEVILLE-BARON Pauillac 2006 | 89-91 |
| Loads of ripe fruit on the nose. Full-bodied, with soft tannins that are ripe and round. Long finish. Almost 92-94. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PICHON-LONGUEVILLE-LALANDE Pauillac 2006 | 89-91 |
| Lively, with lots of plum, blackberry and licorice character. Full, round and velvety. Lacks a tiny bit in the midpalate, but nicely done for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BATAILLEY Pauillac 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium- to full-bodied, with berry and mineral character, silky tannins and a medium finish. A bit loosely knit. —J.S. | |
| CARRUADES DE LAFITE ROTHSCHILD Pauillac 2006 | 85-88 |
| Fresh and fruity, with pretty berry and chocolate character. Medium body, soft tannins and a medium, slightly short finish. Second wine of Lafite. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CORDEILLAN-BAGES Pauillac 2006 | 85-88 |
| Good concentration of berry and raspberry, with just a hint of spice. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Slightly hollow midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-BAGES-AVÉROUS Pauillac 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some berry and vanilla character. Medium body. Lots of wood now. Medium finish. Second wine of Lynch-Bages. —J.S. | |
| PAUILLAC DE CHÂTEAU LATOUR Pauillac 2006 | 85-88 |
| Delicious, with currant and berry character. Medium body and a fresh finish. Clean. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PÉDESCLAUX Pauillac 2006 | 85-88 |
| This is very hollow but clean, with berry and currant character. Short. —J.S. | |
| LE PETIT MOUTON DE MOUTON-ROTHSCHILD Pauillac 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some decent fruit, but turns a little herbal, with plum skin character. Medium body. Light finish. Second wine of Mouton. —J.S. | |
| RÉSERVE DE LA COMTESSE Pauillac 2006 | 85-88 |
| Good fruit, with licorice and berry character. Medium-bodied, with a slightly hollow midpalate, but it's refined. —J.S. | |
| LES TOURELLES DE LONGUEVILLE Pauillac 2006 | 85-88 |
| Aromas and flavors of blackberry and currant bush follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Pretty good second wine for this vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CROIZET-BAGES Pauillac 2006 | 80-84 |
| Very light, with some berry character, but short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GRAND-PUY-DUCASSE Pauillac 2006 | 80-84 |
| Pleasant and fruity, but turns slightly hard and austere on the palate. —J.S. | |
Pessac-Léognan |
|
| CHÂTEAU LA MISSION-HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 95-100 |
| This is so perfumed and pretty. Classy and elegant on the nose, with currant, light vanilla and a hint of lilac. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long, long finish. All in finesse. Very impressive for the vintage; could be the wine of the vintage —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-BAILLY Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 92-94 |
| Gorgeous nose, with fantastic aromas of minerals, berries and dark chocolate. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and lots of gorgeous fruit. Very long and refined. Very close to the 2005. This shows wonderful finesse and length for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 92-94 |
| Captivating aromas of coffee, spice, violets and cedar follow through to a full-bodied palate, with refined tannins and a long finish. Lovely refinement for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| LA CHAPELLE DE LA MISSION-HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 89-91 |
| Beautiful berry and currant character. Long and soft, with fine tannins. Very pretty fruit. Delicious. So fine, with sweet fruit on the finish. Best second wine of La Mission ever. Almost 92-94. —J.S. | |
| DOMAINE DE CHEVALIER Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 89-91 |
| Another wine from this estate that's in harmony and balanced, especially for the vintage, with lots of currant and raspberry character and just a hint of dark chocolate. Full, medium tannins and a fresh finish. All together. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PAPE CLÉMENT Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 89-91 |
| A chewy wine, with a full body. There's a slightly hollow center palate, but also good rich fruit and spice character. —J.S. | |
| LA SÉRÉNITÉ Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 89-91 |
| Silky and refined for the vintage, with a lovely caressing mouthfeel. Medium-to-full body, long finish. A special cuvée from Bernard Magrez, and well done. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU SMITH-HAUT-LAFITTE Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 89-91 |
| Shows good berry and coffee bean character. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium finish of licorice and berry. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BAHANS HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Currants with mineral character. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a light, delicate, fruity finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BARET Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium- to full-bodied, with berry and mineral character and silky tannins. Slightly hollow midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BOUSCAUT Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| There's a silky texture to this medium-bodied red, which shows clean fruit and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BROWN Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Offers a pretty nose of ripe fruit, with hints of wood. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a short finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CANTELYS Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with mineral and light berry character and a short finish. Clean, but a little thin. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CARBONNIEUX Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Fresh and clean, with silky tannins and a medium finish, but a little short and hollow. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LES CARMES-HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Pleasant, with good clean berry and cherry fruit, a medium body and silky tannins. —J.S. | |
| CLOS MARSALETTE Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Has good balance, with mineral and berry character. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a delicate finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU COUHINS-LURTON Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium- to full-bodied, with firm tannins. But falls away fairly quickly. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DE CRUZEAU Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Rather light, with some herb and mineral character, a medium body and a delicate finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA GARDE Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with berry and light mineral character and a light finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-BERGEY Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows berry and mineral character, with a medium body, firm tannins and a light finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LATOUR MARTILLAC Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Displays berry and mineral character, with a medium body and silky finish. But slightly diluted. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MALARTIC-LAGRAVIÈRE Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Offers decent fruit, with berry and earth character. Medium-bodied, with a short finish. Has some balance. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU OLIVIER Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with some berry and light herb character. A bit astringent on the finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DE ROCHEMORIN Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows good fruit, with some sweetness. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a fresh finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LE THIL Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 85-88 |
| Aromas and flavors of tar, blackberry and chocolate. Medium- to full-bodied, with soft tannins and a medium finish. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BRANON Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 80-84 |
| Shows mineral and berry character, with a medium body and a hollow finish. —J.S. | |
| LE CLÉMENTIN DU PAPE CLÉMENT Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 80-84 |
| Shows some clean fruit and licorice character, with a light finish. The second wine of Pape Clément. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DE FIEUZAL Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 80-84 |
| A bit diluted, but shows some attractive berry and mineral character. Falls short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GAZIN ROCQUENCOURT Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 80-84 |
| Medium and simple, with lightly stewed plum and berry character. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-GARDÈRE Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 80-84 |
| Medium-bodied, with slightly stewed fruit character and a light finish. Diluted. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LARRIVET-HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 80-84 |
| A little green and aggressive, but shows some berry and tobacco character. Wait and see. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA LOUVIÈRE Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 80-84 |
| Displays some fruit, but this is a little green, citric and bitter. Medium-bodied, with a light finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DE ROUILLAC Pessac-Léognan 2006 | 80-84 |
| Offers a decent core of fruit, but turns a bit herbal. Medium-bodied, with soft tannins and a short finish. —J.S. | |
Pomerol |
|
| CHÂTEAU LAFLEUR Pomerol 2006 | 95-100 |
| Starts off slow, then cascades like a waterfall. Full and superlong, this is structured and racy. Tight and in reserve. A classic beauty for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PÉTRUS Pomerol 2006 | 95-100 |
| Displays a solid core of fruit, with spice and cherry. Builds on the palate, with silky-textured tannins and a long finish. Seamless. This was picked before the rain. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TROTANOY Pomerol 2006 | 95-100 |
| Shows beautiful sweet fruit. Full, velvety, long and layered, with lots of character, yet remains succulent and refreshing. —J.S. | |
| VIEUX-CHÂTEAU-CERTAN Pomerol 2006 | 95-100 |
| This has a beautiful core of berry, coffee and chocolate fruit. Full yet very balanced, with a velvety mouthfeel and a long, long finish. Extremely well made, with everything in proportion. Makes you want to drink it now. I haven't found many wines like t —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA CONSEILLANTE Pomerol 2006 | 92-94 |
| Attractive berry and mineral character. Full-bodied, with a pretty complement of dark chocolate and berry character. Solid core of fruit and ripe tannins, yet balanced. Very ripe fruit here. Serious for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU L'ÉGLISE CLINET Pomerol 2006 | 92-94 |
| Balanced and harmonious for the vintage. Full-bodied, with a very good core of ripe fruit and velvety tannins. Excellent winemaking by the gifted Denis Durantou. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA FLEUR-PÉTRUS Pomerol 2006 | 92-94 |
| Offers an extremely pretty nose of cinnamon, crushed berry and milk chocolate. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and a long finish. Very impressive for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HOSANNA Pomerol 2006 | 92-94 |
| Very attractive blackberry, olive and spicy oak on the nose and palate. Medium- to full-bodied, with silky, refined tannins and a medium-to-long finish. There's lots going on. This was picked before the rain. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LE PIN Pomerol 2006 | 92-94 |
| This has a lovely sweetness of fruit on the palate. Full, silky and flavorful, with chocolate, berry and vanilla character. Medium long on the finish. A beauty. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA PROVIDENCE Pomerol 2006 | 92-94 |
| Shows gorgeous aromas of blackberry, olive and cinnamon. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a medium finish. Very well done. This was picked before the rain. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BEAUREGARD Pomerol 2006 | 89-91 |
| Clean, ripe and fruity, with a full body, round tannins and a friendly finish. Nicely done. This is a sensitive wine. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BOURGNEUF-VAYRON Pomerol 2006 | 89-91 |
| Displays a solid core of fruit, with dark chocolate and olive character. Full and round, but slightly hollow center palate. Well done for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA CABANNE Pomerol 2006 | 89-91 |
| Offers a good core of ripe fruit, with soft, velvety tannins. Medium- to full-bodied, with very good length. Juicy and well done. I like this better than the 2005. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CERTAN-MARZELLE Pomerol 2006 | 89-91 |
| There's a gorgeous nose already, with crushed berry, toasty oak and flowers. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and a long, long finish. Very silky. Well done. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA COMMANDERIE DE MAZEYRES Pomerol 2006 | 89-91 |
| Well done for the vintage, with a very good mouthfeel, lots of velvety tannins and a long finish. Balanced. —J.S. | |
| L'ENCLOS DU BEAU-PÈRE Pomerol 2006 | 89-91 |
| Medium- to full-bodied, with blackberry and licorice aromas and flavors, chewy tannins and a medium finish. A bit hollow. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU L'EVANGILE Pomerol 2006 | 89-91 |
| Very silky and caressing on the palate, with a full body and lots of chocolate, coffee and berry character. Refined and elegant, with a long finish. Could use a bit more on the finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GAZIN Pomerol 2006 | 89-91 |
| Offers some berry and mineral character, with light dried herbs. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA GRAVE À POMEROL Pomerol 2006 | 89-91 |
| Has a good core of fruit, with mineral and berry character. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Clean and fresh. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LATOUR À POMEROL Pomerol 2006 | 89-91 |
| Displays some berry and chocolate character. Full-bodied, but with a slightly hollow center palate. Long and chewy, with good tannins for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU NENIN Pomerol 2006 | 89-91 |
| Shows pretty soft tannins, with ripe fruit. Full, round and fruity on the finish. Balanced and refined. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BEAU-SOLEIL Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium- to full-bodied, with coffee, berry and licorice aromas and flavors and chewy tannins. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BELLEGRAVE Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Displays a very good core of fruit, with velvety tannins and a medium-to-full body. Builds on the palate. This is good for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BONALGUE Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| A bit hard, but with some berry and licorice character, a medium body and a light finish. Needs more of a midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LE BON-PASTEUR Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Soft and round, with a good core of fruit and plenty of clean berry and vanilla character. A little short and hollow. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CERTAN DE MAY Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Round and velvety, with a good amount of ripe fruit, toasty oak and coffee. Full and caressing. A bit dilute at the end. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| CLOS DE LA VIEILLE ÉGLISE Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Velvety, with berry and chocolate character and a good amount of wood. Medium- to full-bodied, this is slightly hollow midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CLOS DU CLOCHER Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| A medium-bodied red, with berry and coffee character, firm, slightly angular tannins and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CLOS L'ÉGLISE Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| There's a very good core of fruit, with coffee and spice. Medium- to full-bodied, with a velvety finish. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA CROIX DU CASSE Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows currant and blackberry on the nose and palate. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and sweet fruit on the finish. Slightly hollow. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DU DOMAINE DE L'ÉGLISE Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows some berry and plum character, with a hint of currant. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a slightly diluted midpalate. —J.S. | |
| DOMAINE FAYAT-THUNEVIN Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Has sweet fruit, with some chocolate and berry character. Medium- to full-bodied, with soft tannins. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU FEYTIT-CLINET Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Silky and fruity, with a brightness and a medium body. Slightly hollow midpalate, but this is nicely done. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA FLEUR DE GAY Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| This is rich, with berry and light toasty oak and coffee. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a medium finish. Slightly hollow, but attractive. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU FRANC-MAILLET Pomerol Cuvée Jean Baptiste 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows plenty of fruit, with a medium body, chewy tannins and a medium finish. This is slightly one dimensional, but offers good quality. —J.S. | |
| FUGUE DE NENIN Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Soft and fruity, with lovely blackberry and cherry character, a medium body and a fine finish. Falls a little short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LE GAY Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Fresh and fruity, with plum and berry character. Medium-bodied, with light tannins and a fresh finish. Delicate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GUILLOT-CLAUZEL Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| This shows some softer tannins, with mineral and berry character and a slightly hollow midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LAFLEUR-GAZIN Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with some berry and violet character, fine tannins and a fresh finish. Pleasant. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MONTVIEL Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| There's good berry and tobacco character, with a full body and velvety tannins, but this falls a little short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MOULINET Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Full and soft, with plenty of sweet, ripe fruit for the vintage. Medium-bodied, with chewy tannins and a good finish. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| PENSÉES DE LAFLEUR Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| A racy second wine, showing some good blackberry and dark chocolate character. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a long finish. A little hollow midpalate. Could improve. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PETIT-VILLAGE Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Light and fruity, with some currant and mineral character and a short finish. A bit diluted, but clean. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PLINCE Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Fruity, with soft tannins and fresh fruit. Medium-bodied, with clean berry character and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA POINTE Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Very well made for the vintage, with lots of berry, currant and light toasty oak. Full-bodied, with a good core of fruit and a good finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PRIEURS DE LA COMMANDERIE Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| The tannins are a bit aggressive, with slightly tart acidity. Medium-bodied, with a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU ROUGET Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Aromas of olive and berry follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with round tannins and a short finish. Clean, but needs a bit more on the palate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU VIEUX-MAILLET Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| There's delicious fruit in this wine, with plum and chocolate character. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a medium finish. A little hollow, but nicely done. A big improvement. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU VRAY-CROIX-DE-GAY Pomerol 2006 | 85-88 |
| Has some berry character, with hints of olive. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a light finish. Balanced for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA CROIX TAILLEFER Pomerol 2006 | 80-84 |
| Medium-bodied, with some berry and light earth character. Short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-MAILLET Pomerol 2006 | 80-84 |
| There's some berry and currant character, but falls short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MAZEYRES Pomerol 2006 | 80-84 |
| Has some berry and chocolate character, but turns a bit diluted. —J.S. | |
| ROMULUS Pomerol 2006 | 80-84 |
| Soft and fruity, with some chocolate and earth character, a medium body and a short finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TAILLEFER Pomerol 2006 | 80-84 |
| Medium-bodied, with some berry and cherry character and a short finish. Wait and see. —J.S. | |
| LE JARDIN DE PETIT-VILLAGE Pomerol 2006 | 75-79 |
| Pretty light, with some berry and tarragon character. This is short. The second wine of Petit-Village. —J.S. | |
Premières Côtes de Blaye |
|
| LA CROIX DE PÉRENNE Premières Côtes de Blaye 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows light velvety tannins, with good fruit and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GIGAULT Premières Côtes de Blaye Cuvée Viva 2006 | 85-88 |
| There's some berry and mineral character, but this is a bit lean. Medium-bodied, with clean fruit. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LES GRANDS MARÉCHAUX Premières Côtes de Blaye 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with currant and mineral character, fine tannins and a light finish. Clean yet hollow. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PÉRENNE Premières Côtes de Blaye 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied and silky, with pleasant black fruit and mineral and a clean, balanced finish. —J.S. | |
| BLAVIA Premières Côtes de Blaye 2006 | 80-84 |
| Shows hints of blackberry and coffee bean. Light and simple. —J.S. | |
Premières Côtes de Bordeaux |
|
| CHÂTEAU BEL-AIR Premières Côtes de Bordeaux 2006 | 85-88 |
| Firm and fruity, with wet earth and berry character. Medium-bodied, with slightly chewy tannins. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CLOS CHAUMONT Premières Côtes de Bordeaux 2006 | 80-84 |
| A delicate red, with berry fruit, fine tannins and a fresh finish. A bit diluted. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LE DOYENNÉ Premières Côtes de Bordeaux 2006 | 80-84 |
| Offers light berry and chocolate character. Fades a bit on the finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MONT-PÉRAT Premières Côtes de Bordeaux 2006 | 80-84 |
| Medium-bodied, with currant and grapey character, light tannins and a light finish. A little diluted. —J.S. | |
Puisseguin-St.-Emilion |
|
| CHÂTEAU SOLEIL Puisseguin-St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows good ripe fruit, with chocolate and berry character. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a long finish. Well done. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-BERNAT Puisseguin-St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Light and watery, with some black fruit and mineral character. A bit bitter and herbal. —J.S. | |
| LA MAURIANE Puisseguin-St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Medium-bodied, with some plum and mineral character. A bit lean. —J.S. | |
| PIERDON Puisseguin-St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Light and oaky, with some rather lean black fruit. Short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU RIGAUD Puisseguin-St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| There's some fresh berry, but this is light, with very tart acidity on the finish. —J.S. | |
St.-Emilion |
|
| CHÂTEAU PAVIE St.-Emilion 2006 | 95-100 |
| Full-bodied yet balanced and silky. Solid and rich, but not aggressive. Long and beautiful, with pure fruit. Less muscular than typical Pavie, but seductive. A beauty. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU ANGÉLUS St.-Emilion 2006 | 92-94 |
| A clean wine, with lovely berry and mineral character. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a long, caressing finish. This is extremely well made. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU AUSONE St.-Emilion 2006 | 92-94 |
| This is a solid Ausone, with plenty of blackberry and licorice character. Full and velvety, with a solid core of fruit and medium chewy tannins. Not the 2005, but well done. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BELLEVUE-MONDOTTE St.-Emilion 2006 | 92-94 |
| This is very long this year. Full-bodied, silky and pretty, with a long finish. Impressive. Very pretty and well made. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CANON-LA GAFFELIÈRE St.-Emilion 2006 | 92-94 |
| This is really long. Very, very well done. Full-bodied, with silky tannins. Starts off slowly and then runs. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CHEVAL-BLANC St.-Emilion 2006 | 92-94 |
| Very rich, showing lots of blackberry and licorice, with just a hint of wood. Full-bodied, with dense but polished tannins. This is subtle. Very, very pretty and elegant. Silky and long. Almost 95-100. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PAVIE-MACQUIN St.-Emilion 2006 | 92-94 |
| This is very, very good, with silky tannins, full body and a long finish. All in balance and rich. Floral, with lots of berry character. Very pretty wine. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU L'ARCHANGE St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| Has lots of licorice aromas, with hints of sweet fruit. Medium- to full-bodied, with fresh acidity and a medium finish. Holds together. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BEAUSÉJOUR DUFFAU-LAGAROSSE St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| Very pretty wine. Aromatic, with berry, plum and licorice character. Medium-to-full body, with fine tannins and a soft, silky finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BELLISLE MONDOTTE St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| Balanced and fruity, with lots of velvety tannins that caress the palate. Full-bodied and seamless. Not full-throttle, but in control. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BOUTISSE St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| Balanced and fruity, with fine tannins and chocolate, berry and cedar character. Refined. Well done. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CANON St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| Balanced and fruity, with a lovely silky texture and sweet, ripe fruit. Long and caressing. Refined and harmonious. —J.S. | |
| CLOS BADON-THUNEVIN St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| This shows a solid core of ripe fruit and caressing tannins, with a good amount of fruit on the finish. Full body, yet balanced. Nicely done for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CLOS DE L'ORATOIRE St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| Balanced for the vintage, with vanilla, berry and mineral character. Full and silky. Medium finish. Well done for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CLOS FOURTET St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| Very nicely done for the vintage, with a pretty core of mineral, berry fruit and silky tannins. This is long. Wait and see. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CÔTE DE BALEAU St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| Shows mineral and blackberry character, with silky tannins. Medium-bodied, with a silky finish. Nicely done. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU FAUGÈRES St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| A good core of fruit, with silky tannins and a medium-to-full body. Caressing and balanced. Very nicely done for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU FIGEAC St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| Very impressive aromas of blackberry and coffee follow through to medium- to full-bodied palate, with silky tannins and a long finish. This is all in finesse. A tiny bit more on the midpalate would make it 92-94. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA GOMERIE St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| There's plenty of good fruit, with hints of tobacco and toasty oak. Full-bodied, with soft tannins and a medium finish. Well done for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LARCIS-DUCASSE St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| Silky, with very fine tannins and a medium-to-long finish. Medium body. Caressing. Balanced and pretty. Lots of floral and berry character. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MAGDELAINE St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| A pleasant, medium-bodied wine, with caressing tannins and a medium finish. Silky, with good berry and chocolate character. A little more midpalate would be nice. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MONBOUSQUET St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| A solid wine, with chocolate, fruit and vanilla character. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins, but a little chewy. Stylish for the vintage. —J.S. | |
| LA MONDOTTE St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| A rich wine, with plenty of blackberry and plum character. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Needs a little bit more on the midpalate. Could move up to 92-94. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PAVIE-DECESSE St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| Solid core of fruit , with silky tannins. Full-bodied and chewy. Slightly hollow midpalate, but stylish and long. Very clean. Almost 92-94. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PÉBY-FAUGÈRES St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| Plummy and chocolaty, with a full body, medium chewy tannins and a long finish. Solid. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PIN DE FLEURS St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| This is solid, with ripe fruit, silky tannins and a long finish. Seamless and well done. From the owners of Pipeau. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU ROL VALENTIN St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| Pretty and well made, with a lovely core of fruit and silky tannins. All in balance for the vintage. Almost 92-94. —J.S. | |
| SAINTAYME St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| A balanced red, with raspberry and chocolate character, full body and a silky finish. Solid core of fruit here. Well done. From Denis Durantou of L'Église Clinet. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TROPLONG-MONDOT St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| Beautiful, with licorice and coffee character and hints of ripe fruit. Full and velvety, with lots going on. Almost 92-94. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU VALANDRAUD St.-Emilion 2006 | 89-91 |
| There's some good fruit, with hints of violet and mineral. Medium- to full-bodied, with a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU ABELYCE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Displays coffee and berry character on the nose and palate, with lots of wood, but also good fruit and velvety tannins. A little hollow. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BARDE-HAUT St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Offers clean berry and licorice character, with a medium body and a medium finish. A bit lean. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BEAU-SÉJOUR BÉCOT St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium body, with berry and coffee character, good tannins and a medium finish. Slightly hollow. Could get better in bottle. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BÉLAIR St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| A little short, but there's some pleasant berry and currant character. Medium-bodied. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BELLEFONT-BELCIER St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| There's some berry and citrus fruit character in this medium-bodied red. Short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BELLEVUE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Delicate and fruity, with berry character, silky tannins and a medium finish. Not overdone. Pleasant. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BERNATEAU St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows blackberry and mineral character on the nose and palate. Medium-bodied, with slightly austere tannins and a hollow midpalate. Attractive nonetheless. —J.S. | |
| CHAPELLE D'AUSONE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows lovely pure fruit, with mineral and berry character, a medium body and fine tannins. Yet this is slight, short and hollow. The second wine of Ausone. —J.S. | |
| CLOS DE LA CURE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Attractive blackberry and licorice aromas follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with silky tannins and a medium finish. A bit hollow, but clean. —J.S. | |
| CLOS DE SARPE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Clean and fruity, but with slightly accentuated acidity. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins. Slightly hollow center palate. —J.S. | |
| CLOS DES JACOBINS St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows lots of wood right now, but also some clean fruit and coffee character. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a medium-to-long finish. Needs more of a center palate. —J.S. | |
| CLOS DUBREUIL St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium- to full-bodied, with berry and tobacco character, fine tannins and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CLOS ST.-MARTIN St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Balanced and fruity, with mineral and licorice character. Medium- to full-bodied, with chewy tannins. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA CLOTTE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with blackberry and mineral character, chewy tannins and a medium finish. A bit hollow. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA COMMANDERIE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Round and velvety, with a good level of ripe fruit and licorice character. Full and soft-textured, with a medium midpalate. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA COURONNE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| A straightforward, medium-bodied red, with some berry and fresh herb character. Slightly unfocused midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA COUSPAUDE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium- to full-bodied, with blackberry and light mineral character, silky tannins and a medium finish. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CROIX DE LABRIE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Juicy for the vintage, with plenty of ripe fruit and hints of mineral and coffee. Medium- to full-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium finish. Slightly hollow, but could improve. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA CROIX-FIGEAC-LAMARZELLE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with blackberry and toasty oak character, firm, pleasant tannins and a short finish. Balanced. This used to be Château Rocher Bellevue Figeac. Could improve. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DASSAULT St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows blackberry and mineral character, with a hint of new oak. Medium-bodied, with chewy tannins and a medium finish. A little austere, but pleasant. —J.S. | |
| LE DÔME St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Fresh and clean, with berry and citrus fruit character. Turns a little aggressive with the acidity, but I like the bright fruit. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA DOMINIQUE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Has some berry and coffee character, with a medium body and good tannins, but this is slightly austere on the finish. —J.S. | |
| LE FER DE CHEVAL NOIR St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with berry and coffee flavors. The finish is slightly bitter, but clean. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA FLEUR St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| This is attractive, with round tannins, a medium body and sweet fruit on the finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU FOMBRAUGE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Very good for the vintage, with licorice and mineral character. Medium- to full-bodied, with good tannin structure and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DE FONBEL St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| There's a good core of blackberry and prune fruit. Medium-bodied, with velvety tannins and a medium finish. A little hollow, but good quality. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU FONROQUE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Has lots of vanilla and currant character. A little citric, with a medium body and a tart finish. But shows good fruit. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU FRANC-MAYNE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| This has clean berry and mineral character, with a medium body and a light, silky finish. Diluted midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA GAFFELIÈRE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with some berry fruit and light vanilla character, but falls short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GRAND CORBIN-DESPAGNE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows berry and mineral character, with a medium body, firm tannins and a short finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LES GRANDES MURAILLES St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a chocolate, berry aftertaste. A little hollow. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GRAND-PONTET St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Displays berry and mineral character, with just a hint of cedar. Medium-bodied, with chewy tannins and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LES GRAVIÈRES St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Offers attractive mineral and berry character, with hints of licorice. Medium- to full-bodied, with a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GUADET St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Has a good core of berry and coffee fruit, with a medium body, chewy tannins and a medium finish. Needs a little more midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT GRAVET St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| A grapey red, with blackberry and mineral. Medium- to full-bodied, with soft tannins, but a little short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LAFORGE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Offers tar and ripe fruit on the nose and palate. Full, velvety and long. Nicely done. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LARMANDE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows raspberry and coffee character, with a medium body and a chewy tannin structure. Needs a bit more midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LAROZE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with berry and citrusy acidity on the palate and a short finish. —J.S. | |
| LUCIA St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Balanced and silky, with good fruit, fine tannins and a medium-to-long finish that's caressing. Not pushed. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LUSSEAU St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| A pleasing wine, with sweet fruit character, a medium body and a light finish. Not pushed. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| LYNSOLENCE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| A little light on the finish, but this shows some clean berry and tobacco character. Well-made, with firm tannins. —J.S. | |
| MAGREZ FOMBRAUGE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Displays plenty of coffee and berry character. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Needs a bit more midpalate. —J.S. | |
| MARO DE ST.-AMANT St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Grapey, with a mineral and dried herb undertone. Medium-bodied, with a medium tannin structure and a silky finish. Lacks a bit of a midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MILON St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with attractive berry and mineral character and a light finish. A bit lean at the end. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MOULIN DU CADET St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Offers aromas of blackberry and mineral, with chewy tannins and a medium body. Slightly austere, with a short finish. Wait and see. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MOULIN-ST.-GEORGES St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Lots of raspberry and blackberry character, with mineral undertones. Full-bodied and chewy, with slightly sharp tannins, but an interesting style. —J.S. | |
| LE PETIT CHEVAL St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Refined and silky, with attractive tobacco and coffee character and a hint of berry. Medium-bodied, this is a tiny bit bitter on the finish, but really good. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PIPEAU St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium- to full-bodied, with firm, chewy tannins, but also a very good core of berry and chocolate fruit. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DE PRESSAC St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows good fruit, with mineral and blackberry character. Medium-bodied, with chewy tannins. A little tough. —J.S. | |
| SANCTUS St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Impressive concentration for the vintage, but a little hollow and chewy. Medium- to full-bodied, with a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU SANSONNET St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Offers berry, dark chocolate and cherry character. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a clean finish. Could improve. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA SERRE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Soft and fruity, with pleasing tannins that are caressing. Medium-bodied, with a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU SIMARD St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Soft and fruity, with chocolate and berry character, fine tannins and a medium body. Slightly hollow midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU ST.-GEORGES St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Has some berry character, but this is slightly hollow midpalate. Yet the fruit is clean and the tannins fine. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LA TOUR DU PIN St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Silky and refined, with pretty fruit and vanilla character. Medium-bodied and balanced. This is a new wine from the owners of Cheval-Blanc and Yquem. It is just across the street from Cheval. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TOUR PEYRONNEAU St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Shows a good amount of tar and berry. Medium- to full-bodied, with soft tannins and a medium finish. Almost 89-91. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TRIANON St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| A little herbaceous, but with some good currant and berry character. Medium-bodied, with a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TROTTEVIEILLE St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with berry and currant character, chewy tannins and a slightly hollow midpalate. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU VILLHARDY St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium- to full-bodied, with pretty blackberry character, chewy tannins and a vanilla berry aftertaste. Dilute midpalate. —J.S. | |
| VIRGINIE DE VALANDRAUD St.-Emilion 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with some berry and mineral character, silky tannins and a medium-to-long finish. Grows on you. Well done for a second wine. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU ARMENS St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Has berry fruit character and a medium body, but this falls short. —J.S. | |
| LES ASTERIES St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Lean, with some fruit and coffee character and a light finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BERGAT St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| This is a bit citric and diluted, with berry and plum character. Loosely knit. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BERLIQUET St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Shows some berry and licorice character, with a medium body and chewy tannins. But turns a bit diluted. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CADET-BON St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Has some berry and cherry character, but falls short. Not much to this. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CADET-PIOLA St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Medium-bodied, with some berry and herbal character and an astringent finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CANTENAC St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Light and hollow, with a hint of lavender and berry and slightly metallic tannins. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CANTENAC St.-Emilion Climat 2006 | 80-84 |
| Shows stewed berry and chocolate character, with a diluted finish. Disappointing. —J.S. | |
| LE CARRÉ St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Has stewed fruit character, with chewy tannins and a light finish. —J.S. | |
| CLOS LA MADELEINE St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| A medium-bodied red, with sweet fruit and light tannins. Short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CORBIN St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| There's some good fruit, but this is a little light and astringent. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU FRANC LA ROSE St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Extremely grapey, with lots of mineral and mint. Medium- to full-bodied, with slightly high acidity and a medium finish. The citrus character is hard to get excited about. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GRAND BARRAIL LAMARZELLE FIGEAC St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Medium-bodied, with berry fruit character that has a slightly herbal undertone. A little hollow. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GRAND DESTIEU St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Shows slightly stewed berry character, with a medium body and a light finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GRAND-MAYNE St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Clean, but a little lean, with tobacco, berry and mineral character. Wait and see. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU JEAN-FAURE St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| A medium red, with some berry and light herbal character. Hard to get excited about. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LOUIS St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| This is rather tangy, with angular tanins that turns a bit lean. Lacks a little maturity, but there are some decent fruit flavors. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU QUINAULT-L'ENCLOS St.-Emilion L'Enclos 2006 | 80-84 |
| Medium-bodied, with some berry and light herb character, but falls short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU SOUTARD St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Shows some berry and light spice character. This is medium-bodied, but falls short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU ST.-HUBERT St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Medium-bodied, with currant and decadent lavender character. A bit hollow and short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TAUZINAT L'HERMITAGE St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Very light, with some clean fruit. But rather citric. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TERTRE DAUGAY St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Shows some berry and cherry character, with a medium body, silky tannins and a medium finish. A bit diluted. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TEYSSIER St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Medium-bodied, with berry and mineral character and a firm finish. Hollow but clean. —J.S. | |
| TROIS ORIGINES St.-Emilion 2006 | 80-84 |
| Clean and fruity, but a little diluted. Wait and see. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LE PRIEURÉ St.-Emilion 2006 | 75-79 |
| A bit metallic and tart, with some fruit. Hard to get excited about. —J.S. | |
St.-Estèphe |
|
| CHÂTEAU CALON-SÉGUR St.-Estèphe 2006 | 92-94 |
| A lovely wine with a solid core of fruit, silky tannins and chocolate, berry and light spice character. Long and balanced. Reminds me of the 1995. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU COS-D'ESTOURNEL St.-Estèphe 2006 | 92-94 |
| Wonderful aromas of violets and berries, with a mineral undertone. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and tannins. Firm and chewy, tannic and muscular. Midpalate of fruit that builds on the palate. Almost 95-100. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MEYNEY St.-Estèphe 2006 | 89-91 |
| Very attractive, with lots of blackberry and currant character. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long finish. Impressive. Very close to the 2005. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MONTROSE St.-Estèphe 2006 | 89-91 |
| Starts off silky and refined. Medium- to full-bodied, with a fine finish, but needs a little more on the midpalate. Attractive spice and currant character. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DE PEZ St.-Estèphe 2006 | 89-91 |
| Plenty of clean fruit, with blackberry and currant. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a fresh finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BEAU-SITE St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Very good fruit for the vintage, with chocolate and currant character. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LE BOSCQ St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Clean-cut, with some pleasant berry and currant character. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU CLAUZET St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Medium-bodied, with simple berry and currant character. Slightly chewy. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU COS-LABORY St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Clean, with some berry and olive character. Medium-bodied, with a short finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LE CROCK St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Berry and currant character, but turns a little hollow on the midpalate. Clean and caressing. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DOMEYNE St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Attractive currant and plum character. Medium- to full-bodied, with medium tannins and a medium finish. This is a new château bought in December 2006 by Claire Villars of Haut-Bages-Libéral and Ferrière and her husband, Gonzague Lurton, of Dufrort-Vivens. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-BEAUSÉJOUR St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Currant and blackberry character, with a hint of leafiness. Medium body. Slightly hollow and austere. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT-MARBUZET St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some berry and currant character, with medium body and firm tannins. Falls a little short, but a pleasant enough wine. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LAFON-ROCHET St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| A bit lean, but some clean berry and currant character. Medium body. Delicate finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU MARBUZET St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Balanced and fruity, with ripe and refined tannins and just the right amount of spice. Medium-bodied. Medium long. Pleasant wine already. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LES ORMES-DE-PEZ St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Bright currant and berry character follows through to a medium body, with silky tannins and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| LES PAGODES DE COS St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Some good fruit, with spice, berry and mineral character. Medium- to full-bodied. Refined tannins. Slightly bitter. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PHÉLAN-SÉGUR St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Aromas and flavors of blackberry and lightly toasted oak. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a medium finish. Clean. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU SERILHAN St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Pleasant berry and currant aromas and flavors, with medium body, fine tannins and a medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TRONQUOY DE ST.-ANNE St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Soft and round, with good fruit and a simple finish. Pleasant. This is the new second wine of Tronquoy-Lalande. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TRONQUOY-LALANDE St.-Estèphe 2006 | 85-88 |
| Pretty, with soft, silky tannins, medium body and a medium finish. Very pleasing already. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU VALROSE St.-Estèphe Cuvée Alienor 2006 | 85-88 |
| Bright, with spicy black fruit and vanilla character. Medium-bodied. Slightly austere. —J.S. | |
| LA DAME DE MONTROSE St.-Estèphe 2006 | 80-84 |
| A little diluted, but some clean berry and tobacco character. Medium-bodied. Slightly angular tannins. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU PICARD St.-Estèphe 2006 | 80-84 |
| Has fresh black fruit and a firm, medium body, turning a bit dry and astringent. Short. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TOUR DES TERMES St.-Estèphe 2006 | 80-84 |
| Light but clean. —J.S. | |
St.-Julien |
|
| CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE LAS CASES St.-Julien 2006 | 95-100 |
| Fabulous aromas of mineral, currant and blackberry. Full and supersilky, with a long, long finish. Very fine tannins, even though there are loads of them. Long and round. Reminiscent of the excellent 1996 Las Cases, but better. —J.S. | |
| CLOS DU MARQUIS St.-Julien 2006 | 92-94 |
| Wonderful aromas of blackberries, minerals and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with a lovely core of cool fruit. Racy and caressing tannins. Excellent. 13.2 percent Cabernet Franc--more than normal. Better structured than normal, too. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU DUCRU-BEAUCAILLOU St.-Julien 2006 | 92-94 |
| Layered and rich, with lots of licorice and berry character. Turns to currants. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long finish. Very serious. Like it a lot. 1996 again. This is almost 95-100. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE BARTON St.-Julien 2006 | 92-94 |
| Very balanced and pretty, with violet and currant. Full and silky. Gorgeous. Harmonious. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BRANAIRE-DUCRU St.-Julien 2006 | 89-91 |
| Very solid, with good fruit and a complete core of ripe tannins. Medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a medium to full finish. I prefer this to the 2004. Very close to 92-94. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GLORIA St.-Julien 2006 | 89-91 |
| Lots of rich fruit, with fresh plum, coffee and berry character. Full-bodied, with tannins that build on your palate and follow through. Well structured. The best Gloria in a long time. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU GRUAUD-LAROSE St.-Julien 2006 | 89-91 |
| Velvety and fruity. Lots of mineral and berry character. I would like to see a little more fruit in the center palate, but it's clean and racy. And it should grow in the barrel. Better than the 2005. Close to 92-94. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LAGRANGE St.-Julien 2006 | 89-91 |
| Very pretty mineral and black berry aromas. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and a long silky finish. Very good indeed. Almost 92-94. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LANGOA BARTON St.-Julien 2006 | 89-91 |
| Balanced and refined, with silky tannins and lots of dark chocolate and mineral. Medium- to full-bodied, with a lasting finish. Lovely. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE POYFERRÉ St.-Julien 2006 | 89-91 |
| Solid core of fruit. Full-bodied, with big, chewy, slightly austere tannins. Lots of currant, mineral and blackberry on the finish. A little more on the midpalate would push it up a notch. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU ST.-PIERRE St.-Julien 2006 | 89-91 |
| Full-bodied, with firm, slightly austere and chewy tannins. Medium finish. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU TALBOT St.-Julien 2006 | 89-91 |
| Very perfumed, with violet and currant character. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long finish. Juicy young wine. Impressive. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU BEYCHEVELLE St.-Julien 2006 | 85-88 |
| Soft-textured and fruity, with medium body, good flavors and a medium finish. I was expecting a little more out of this. —J.S. | |
| LA CROIX-BEAUCAILLOU St.-Julien 2006 | 85-88 |
| Chewy, with good fruit and lots of berry and toasted oak. Medium- to full-bodied, but falls pretty fast. Second wine of Ducru. —J.S. | |
| CHÂTEAU LALANDE-BORIE St.-Julien 2006 | 85-88 |
| Fruity and round, with a chocolate and light coffee character. Medium- to full-bodied. Clean finish. Tannic too. Needs a little more on the midpalate. —J.S. | |
| SARGET DE GRUAUD-LAROSE St.-Julien 2006 | 85-88 |
| A little short, but some decent and clean fruit. Mineral and blackberry character. —J.S. | |
Wines tasted as barrel samples are rated, like bottled wines, on Wine Spectator's 100-point scale, but unlike a bottled wine, which receives a single numerical score, a barrel sample is assigned a score range that reflects the taster's evaluation of the wine's potential for the future, after bottling.
Definition of score ranges: