Vinous - Ian D'Agata (87-89)

Medium-deep ruby. Enticing nose suggests smoky blackcurrant, strawberry jam and ink. Fresh and sappy on entry, this politely styled, rather light-bodied wine offers pretty red and black fruit flavors and very smooth tannins. The moderately long finish hints at tar and smoke. This uncomplicated but attractive wine should provide considerable short-term pleasure at a moderate price.

IPicque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2016 stands as a paragon of the vintage year, hailing from the acclaimed Pessac-Leognan region within Bordeaux, France. Crafted precisely on an exceptional gravel terroir, this exquisite fine wine boasts a harmonious blend of quintessential Bordeaux grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Following a meticulous manual harvest, the grapes undergo traditional vinification methods, eclipsed by meticulous barrel ageing in French oak for optimum refinement.

The proprietor, Paulin Calvet, endows the Picque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2016 with exceptional pedigree, demonstrating an unerring commitment to meticulous quality control and sustainable viticulture. This enchanting rouge surmounts an exuberant bouquet of red fruits, forest floor and exotic spices, with a hint of mint, followed by an elegantly structured palate accentuated by silky tannins, poised acidity, and splendid longevity. A fine testament to the combination of exceptional terroir and the visionary genius of Calvet, the Picque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2016 would shine as the pièce de résistance at any connoisseur's table.

Discover the exquisite delight of the Picque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2017. Emanating from the esteemed Pessac-Leognan appellation in the grand Bordeaux region, this delectable vintage exudes the expertise of its winemakers. The vineyard, nestled in the gravelly heartland of Bordeaux, ensures root depth for freedom in expressing unique varietal characters. The wine blend features 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, promising complexities and richness.

Produced under the skilled hands of Picque Caillou, the wine demonstrates a brilliant straw yellow colour. The fragrance combines elements of citrus and white peach with soft brioche undertones, reminiscent of the region's classic allure. The elaborate process sees fermemtation in oak barrels, then meticulously ageing for a further 10 months, which contributes to a classy finish.

The Picque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2017 speaks volumes about the winery's unwavering commitment to quality, illustrating a seamless amalgamation of traditional winemaking and contemporary expertise.

Wine Advocate (91-93+)

.

Wine Advocate (91-93+)

.

Jeb Dunnuck (90-92)

Lifted blue fruits, violets, Christmas spice, and some chocolate nuances emerge from the 2020 Château Picque Caillou, a medium to full-bodied, up-front, seamless, and beautifully balanced Pessac-Léognan. Despite plenty of up-front fruit, it also has solid underlying structure as well as ripe, polished tannins. It’s another beautiful wine from this appellation that should drink well in its youth yet also evolve gracefully.

James Suckling (92-93)

Deep dark fruit with blackberry, black-truffle with orange-peel undertones. Medium-bodied with juicy fruit and a flavorful finish.