L'If, St Emilion
    L'If

    L'If, St Emilion, 2018

    93/100
    The Wine Independent
    92/100
    Vinous
    Available Vintages
    portfolio
    1. 2018

      75cl

      DP

      £171.20

    2. 2018

      6x75cl

      DP

      £1,027.22

    Justerini & Brooks Tasting note

    Alas, L'If is a tiny production, just 7000 bottles of the wonderful 2018 are in the cellar. 50% of the vineyard has been replanted, much of which is not yet used in the blend. Jacques explained that a soft hand was required. Skins were naturally very thick so he did no pigeage. 74% Merlot and 26% Cabernet Franc, aged in 50% new oak, the L'If 2018 is the most accomplished effort we have tasted to date. There is a noticeable shift both here and at Le Pin towards a more serious, structured style. The exuberance and outrageously aromatic style of old has been parked, the 2017s and 2018s are more classical and arguably better placed for aging. The fruit is detailed and fine with super intensity and energy. Seductive raspberries and loganberries wash over the palate in waves of gloriously velvety fruit. We were impressed by the deftness of tannins - they have been beautifully handled and frame the fruit perfectly. A very impressive L'If.

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    Critic Reviews

    93/100
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown,
    The Wine Independent
    L’If 2018 is deep garnet purple in color. It starts off a little oaky, melding into scents of warm plums, black cherry compote, and licorice, with touches of dried mint and iron ore. Full-bodied, firm and with lovely tension, it has loads of mineral sparks on the finish.
    drinking window 2023 - 2038
    date of review 02/2023
    92/100
    Neal Martin,
    Vinous
    The 2018 L’If, which sees 50% new oak and 50% one-year-old wood, has a disarmingly lovely bouquet that veers more toward red fruit than black, offering raspberry and wild strawberry, <em>hoisin</em> and light marmalade aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins and quite saline on the entry, with good tension from beginning to end. Harmonious and almost understated toward the finish, it leaves light white pepper and sage notes on the aftertaste. This is an excellent L’If that should give 12–15 years of drinking pleasure.
    drinking window 2023 - 2035
    date of review 03/2021

    product details

    Specifications

    Country:
    France
    Region:
    Bordeaux
    Appellation:
    St Emilion
    Producer:
    L'If
    style:
    Red Wine
    Grape Variety:
    Merlot Cabernet
    abv:
    13%

    allergen information

    This product may contain sulphites. Full allergen information is available upon request, please call our Customer Relations Team on +44 (0)20 7484 6430.