Chateau Pichon Lalande "Reserve" Pauillac 2018 (375mL)

Jeb Dunnuck : 94 Points

(3/11/2021) The second wine of the Château, the 2018 Pichon Comtesse Reserve checks in as 53% Cabernet Sauvignon and 42% Merlot, with the balance Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Terrific classic Pauillac notes of blackcurrants, lead pencil shavings, leafy tobacco, and chocolate define this beauty, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a layered, balanced, pure character, present yet ripe tannins, and a great finish. As I wrote last year, it tastes more like a Grand Vin than a second wine. The larger Merlot component shows here compared to its more Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated big brother, and it's a much more plush, silky, sexy wine that already offers loads of pleasure. It's going to evolve for two decades and is well worth seeking out. Maturity: 2021 - 2041.

James Suckling : 93 Points

(1/19/2022) A pretty red with blackberry, cherry and currant. Some chocolate and walnut, too. It’s medium-bodied with integrated tannins and a polished finish. Hazelnut at the end. Drink after 2024.