critic reviews
Here we are in classic Pauillac territory, still young even at 15 years old, with a ton of tannic grip, slate and pencil lead, cassis and cocoa bean, channeling tension, freshness and bright fruits. A wonderful example of the vintage, needs a few more years than really being in its drinking window, but this is exceptional quality. 70% new oak for ageing.
Medium to deep garnet in color, the 2009 Grand-Puy-Lacoste prances out with exuberant notes of chocolate-covered cherries, blackcurrant pastilles, and licorice, plus wafts of pencil shavings and tobacco leaf. The medium-bodied palate is soft and juicy, drinking deliciously now, finishing on a lingering exotic spice note.
Medium to deep garnet in color, the 2009 Grand-Puy-Lacoste opens with a nose of sweaty leather, damp earth, baked cherries and dried mulberries with touches of fried herbs, black olives and cast iron pan. Medium-bodied, firm and chewy, this is a more elegantly styled 2009 with provocative herbal sparks and a ferrous finish.
The 2009 Grand Puy-Lacoste has a clean and precise bouquet with graphite infused red berry fruit, woodland scents, fern and touches of autumn leaves. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, quite bold and assertive with dried blood and ferrous notes infusing the red fruit towards the persistent finish. You could broach this now although I would prefer to leave another couple of years, when it may well deserve a higher score. Tasted blind at Farr Vintners’ 2009 Bordeaux tasting.