Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96-98)

Do you want the good news or the bad news first? Let's start with the good. The 2021 Pichon Comtesse is epic and certainly among the great wines of this vintage. Sadly, the coulure and mildew in the first year of organic farming plus dehydration at the end of the growing season took with it fully two thirds of the crop. In other words, there's not much wine to go around. Rich and sumptuous in the glass, yet clocking in at 12.9% alcohol, the 2021 is beautifully layered and totally sensual from the very first taste. Hints of red fruit, flowers, mint, white pepper and dried savory herbs develop with a bit of coaxing. The Cabernet Sauvignon, at 88%, is very high by historical standards. Quite simply, the 2021 is a tour de force from Technical Director Nicolas Glumineau and his team. If there is one wine readers will absolutely jump on en primeur it is Pichon Comtesse. Should the bottled wine turn out as well as this sample, pricing is likely to jump materially because of the tiny production. Don't miss it.

Wine Advocate (100)

The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.

Wine Advocate (100)

The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.

Wine Advocate (100)

The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.

Wine Advocate (100)

The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.

Wine Advocate (100)

The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.

Wine Advocate (100)

The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.

James Suckling (98-99)

Wow. This is really excellent, with superb finesse and focus. It has tight density that is almost diamond-like in its brilliance. Medium to full body, with a quality of tannin that is incredibly seamless. Like silk in texture. A top Pichon Lalande. From organic and biodynamically grown grapes. 80% cabernet sauvignon, 17% merlot and 3% cabernet franc. May be better than 2022.

James Suckling (98-99)

Wow. This is really excellent, with superb finesse and focus. It has tight density that is almost diamond-like in its brilliance. Medium to full body, with a quality of tannin that is incredibly seamless. Like silk in texture. A top Pichon Lalande. From organic and biodynamically grown grapes. 80% cabernet sauvignon, 17% merlot and 3% cabernet franc. May be better than 2022.

James Suckling (98-99)

Wow. This is really excellent, with superb finesse and focus. It has tight density that is almost diamond-like in its brilliance. Medium to full body, with a quality of tannin that is incredibly seamless. Like silk in texture. A top Pichon Lalande. From organic and biodynamically grown grapes. 80% cabernet sauvignon, 17% merlot and 3% cabernet franc. May be better than 2022.

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.

Wine Advocate (91-93+)

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Picque-Caillou leaps from the glass with bold notes of blackcurrant cordial, blueberry pie and preserved plums with hints of damp soil, truffles and camphor. Full-bodied, it gives mouth-filling black fruits with loads of minty sparks and a firm, chewy frame, finishing long and earthy.

Unveiling the stunning complexity of Italy's Langhe region, the Piero Benevelli Barolo Le Coste di Monforte 2019 is an exquisite encapsulation of winemaking mastery. This Nebbiolo, known for its distinct tannin-rich character and longevity, is harvested from Le Coste's southeast-facing slope, benefitting from persistent sunshine and clayey, alkaline soil. The winery, helmed by Massimo Benevelli, conducts meticulous vine management and traditional vinification to produce this divine Barolo.

Matured for 30 months in large Slavonian oak casks, the Piero Benevelli Barolo Le Coste di Monforte 2019 blooms with potent aromas of dried rose, red cherry, and noble wood. Further exploration reveals layers of dried herbs, licorice, and tobacco, underpinned by an elegant minerality. On the palate, it engages with vibrant acidity, muscular tannins, and a lasting finish. An exemplary display of Barolo's harmonious marriage of power and finesse.

Descend into the exquisite depths of the Piero Benevelli Barolo Le Coste di Monforte 2020, a splendid exemplar of Italy's famed Barolo wine from the iconic Piedmont region. Crafted by Massimo Benevelli, an estimable producer known for his relentless pursuit of quality and harmony, this vintage encapsulates the essence of the Nebbiolo grape - robust, yet elegantly poised. The soil of Monforte d'Alba, rich in tuff, sands, and limestone, infuses the wine with its distinctive minerality and complexity.

Following 24 months ageing in Slavonian oak barrels, Piero Benevelli Barolo Le Coste di Monforte 2020 emerges as a full-bodied masterpiece with bold concentration and refined tannins. Its impressive longevity lends promising cellar potential. Expect a symphony of ripe red fruit and rose petal aromas heralding an intense palate of plum, cherry, intertwined with hints of liquorice and undergrowth. Savour this Barolo's lingering, velvety finish, indicative of its meticulous winemaking journey.

Vinous (93)

The 2017 Barolo Mosconi captures all the darkness, power and breadth this site is so well known for. Black cherry, plum, gravel, dried herbs and licorice infuse the 2017 with shades of nuance. This potent, strapping Barolo needs a few years in bottle to soften, although it is pretty alluring today.

The Piero Benevelli Barolo Mosconi 2019 is an exquisite representation of Italian craftsmanship, emanating from the esteemed vineyards of Piedmont, Italy. Produced by the Benevelli family, who bear decades of viticulture experience, this splendid wine exhibits their passion and commitment.

Made from 100% Nebbiolo grapes cultivated on the coveted Mosconi vineyard, Piero Benevelli Barolo Mosconi 2019 offers a robust and enticing complexity. Notes of cherry, ripe plum, and spices infuse its rich, velvety palate. Subtle hints of leather and rose add depth, highlighting the wine’s maturity and sophistication. The ageing process in Slavonian oak barrels imparts a pleasant tannic balance and a haunting finish.

The Piero Benevelli Barolo Mosconi 2019 is an elixir for the discerning palate, boasting an inimitable flavour profile. It truly reflects its birthplace's unique terroir, climatic conditions, and generational wine-making acumen, enshrining its status as a premier Barolo.

Jeb Dunnuck (93)

Medium red brick in color, the 2020 Barbaresco Albesani Vigna Borgese is showing off bright and sunny aromas of dried strawberries, roses, anise, and sweet herbs. Medium-bodied, it’s elegant and juicy on the palate, with ripe tannins and its delicate sweetness of fruit continuing through the finish. It has very nice freshness of acidity that weaves the wine forward with a linear feel and keep things light on its feet. It’s attractive now though will show its best 2026-2036.

Immerse yourself in the impeccable experience of Piero Busso Barbaresco Bricco Mondino 2013. Originating from Italy's prestigious Piedmont region, this wine is a creation of the esteemed Busso family, who carry a rich legacy of winemaking expertise spanning generations. Rested for a remarkable 18 months in French oak barrels, this wine dances with delicate notes of fruit, floral and spice undertones.

The careful elevation on Piero Busso's treasured southeast-facing hillsides, to a precise 270 - 300 metres above sea level, results in a wine that truly exemplifies the region's terroir. The hand-picked Nebbiolo grapes used in Piero Busso Barbaresco Bricco Mondino 2013 bring forth a persistent, full-bodied flavour profile, presenting an elegant harmony between acidity and tannins.

Reaching its peak maturity in 2018, this vintage continues to impress, offering a rich ruby hue and a lingering finish. Every sip is a testament to the family's dedication to quality and passion for winemaking.

Experience the exquisite pleasure of Piero Busso Barbaresco Gallina 2014, a red wine hailing from the idyllic region of Langhe, Italy. Produced by the esteemed Piero Busso, a family-owned vineyard with a reputation of meticulous craftsmanship, this wine strikes a commendable balance of finesse and complexity. Harvested from Nebbiolo grapes grown in the prestigious Gallina vineyard, this choice vintage boasts an appealing garnet hue coupled with an alluring aroma of ripe red berries, floral tones and subtle hints of spice.

Lovingly matured in French oak for 24 months, the Piero Busso Barbaresco Gallina 2014 imparts a rich, full-bodied palate that expertly marries fruitiness with gentle tannins, culminating in a lingering finish. Celebrated by connoisseurs for its splendid quality and potential for ageing, this Barbaresco is a splendid companion for rich, robust dishes, making it a sublime choice for the discerning palate.

Jeb Dunnuck (94)

There is a graceful feel to the 2019 Barbaresco Gallina, offering notes of wild raspberry, ripe apricot, and roses, followed by refined tannins, energy, great balance, and a long finish. Layered and finessed with orange peel, grenadine, and dusty earth, it is drinking beautifully already and will continue to improve over the coming 15 to 20 years.