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James Suckling 2009 Bordeaux En Primeur Scores

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Saint Émilion › Pomerol › Pessac Léognan › Pauillac › St Estèphe › Saint Julien › Margaux › 2009 Dry White Bordeaux › Sauternes/Barsac

St.-Emilion

CHÂTEAU AUSONE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 97-100
Such a dreamy, perfumed aroma to this wine. Full-bodied, but wonderfully polished and integrated. It touches every millimeter of your palate and the texture makes you want to cry. It touches your soul. Goes on for minutes. Another perfect red? —J.S.

CHÂTEAU FIGEAC St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 97-100
Really fabulous on the nose, with sweet milk chocolate, flowers, currant and plum. Full-bodied, with incredible length. The tannins are so silky, but they are warm and cuddly. You just want to hug it. Powerful but so attractive. The blend is one third each of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU CHEVAL-BLANC St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 96-99
I have never smelled a Cheval like this, with red fruit and an undertone of seashell, lilac and sandalwood that makes you dream, turning to chocolate. Full-bodied, but tight and precise with a laser-guided finish of ultrafine tannins. Superlong. 60 percent Merlot and 40 percent Cabernet Franc. This is like the 1990 but superclean. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU PAVIE-MACQUIN St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 96-99
Superfocused and beautiful, like looking at Mont Blanc with a clear sky and a blanket of snow. Full and refined, with gorgeous fruit and wonderful refinement. Silky tannins. Clearly the best ever. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU PÉBY-FAUGÈRES St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 96-99
An incredible nose of reduced dark fruits, with blackberry, dark chocolate and loads of cherry. Full-bodied, with supervelvety tannins. Goes on and on. Racy and fast. Amazing. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU BELLEVUE-MONDOTTE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 95-98
Breathtaking aromas of crushed blackberries, dark chocolate and cassis. Full-bodied, with big and velvety tannins and intense fruit. Long finish. Massive. But polished and very balanced. Could prove to be the best of the Perse wines in 2009. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU CANON St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 95-98
What a gorgeous nose, with sweet and delicate fruits such as sliced plums that turn to milk chocolate and flowers. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, long finish. You want to drink this right away. 75 percent Merlot and 25 percent Cabernet Franc. —J.S.

CHAPELLE D'AUSONE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 95-98
Delivers blueberry and blackberry aromas, with hints of dark chocolate. Full-bodied, featuring chewy, rich tannins and a beautiful velvety texture. This is superb. Really structured. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU PAVIE-DECESSE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 95-98
Tar and blackberry on the nose, with hints of licorice. Full-bodied and very concentrated, with loads of blackberry fruit. Massive. But slightly less extracted than the Pavie. —J.S.

LA MONDOTTE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 95-98
Black olive, green olive and coffee bean. Ripe fruit too. Full-bodied, with velvety and polished tannins and fabulous fruit. Love the texture and depth of fruit to this wine. So long too. Tangy freshness at the end. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU ANGÉLUS St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 94-97
Concentrated aromas of boysenberry and raspberry jam. Full-bodied and powerful, with beautiful fruit-coated tannins and a long, spicy, rich aftertaste. All there for a top vintage from Angélus. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU CANON-LA GAFFELIÈRE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 94-97
The Cabernet Franc really comes out here, with roasted berry, coffee bean and citrus following through to blackberry. Full-bodied, with fabulous concentration of fruit and supersoft tannins, a long, long finish. This is so juicy and wonderful. No dry tannins here. —J.S.

CLOS FOURTET St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 94-97
Offers blueberry, currant, mineral and violet. Full-bodied, with big, juicy tannins and loads of fruit. Very concentrated and velvety, with a lovely texture. —J.S.

LUCIA St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 94-97
Violets and dark berries, with loads of aromas. Full-bodied, with a gorgeous core of sweet and ripe fruit. Long and dense, yet stylish. 10 acres. Next to Clos Fortet. 90 percent Merlot and 10 percent Cabernet Franc. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU PAVIE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 94-97
Blackberry, black cherry, licorice and mineral. Full-bodied, with a big core of velvety tannins and rich fruit. Full throttle, and all there. Really massive. Blockbuster and more. Could be a tad overdone. But we will see in bottle. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU ROL VALENTIN St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 94-97
Licorice and tar, with hints of ripe berry. Full-bodied, with a solid core of ripe fruit and dense tannins. Yet it's all in near-perfect harmony. This has a new owner and it's even better. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU TROPLONG-MONDOT St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 94-97
Intense aromas of blackberry and blueberry follow through to a full body, with well-integrated tannins and a fruity finish. Offers lots of licorice and spice. There's lovely length to this. Reserved and pretty. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU BEAU-SÉJOUR BÉCOT St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 93-96
Blueberry, licorice and floral aromas follow through to a full body, with a beautiful core of fruit and a long, fine finish. Layered and gorgeous. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LA DOMINIQUE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 93-96
Sweet berry and plum, with wild cherry. Full and velvety. Long finish. Clear and focused fruit. Best in years? —J.S.

CHÂTEAU GODEAU St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 93-96
Fab nose. Licorice and dark cherries. What a palate. Full body, with super silky tannins and a long, long finish. Seductive juice, polished and gorgeous. This is next to Tertre Roteboeuf. 95 Merlot, 5 percent Cabernet Franc. —J.S.

LOUIS St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 93-96
Very seductive, with wild fruits and flowers. Full-bodied, with superintegrated tannins and a long, long finish. The tannins are all there and just right. Superracy. 80 percent Merlot and 20 percent Cabernet Franc. —J.S.

MAGREZ FOMBRAUGE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 93-96
A blockbuster, with loads of concentrated fruit and coffee bean and toasty oak on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety, chewy tannins and a long finish. Big and powerful. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LE PRIEURÉ St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 93-96
This is compelling on the nose, with crushed blackberry and flowers and loads of fruit. Full-bodied, with soft, silky tannins and a long, rich, yet balanced finish. Next to Trottevieille. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU VALANDRAUD St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 93-96
What a nose to this young red, showing crushed blueberry and blackberry, with black licorice as well. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a racy and beautiful finish. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU CANTENAC St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Blueberry and mineral on the nose, with hints of fresh flowers. Full and layered, with superpolished tannins and a long finish. Solid as a rock. —J.S.

CLOS DE L'ORATOIRE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Loads of aniseed and black licorice aromas. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a lovely balance of fruit, and everything else. Love the length. 90 percent Merlot and 10 percent Cabernet Franc. —J.S.

CLOS DE SARPE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
I like the intense and concentrated nose of ripe berry in this young red. Full-bodied, dense and juicy, with round, rich tannins and a long finish. —J.S.

CLOS ST.-JULIEN St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
A juicy, full bodied red, with fine tannins and classy style. Half Cabernet Franc, half Merlot; a beautiful wine from old Merlot and Cabernet Franc. A tiny vineyard. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LA CROIX FIGEAC St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Blackberry with licorice and black olive on the nose. Full-bodied, with lots of richness. Very concentrated, but I think it will come around just right. 80 percent Merlot, 20 percent Cabernet. This is really full throttle. Rock and roll. —J.S.

LE DÔME St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Mineral and sandalwood, with ripe blackberry on the nose. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and an attractive combination of toasted oak and fruit. Racy and polished. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU FAUGÈRES St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Blackberry, toasty oak, coffee bean and dark chocolate. Full-bodied and very chewy, with masses of tannins that are a little aggressive. But should come around nicely. Very chewy. Ultraconcentrated. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LA FLEUR MORANGE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Blueberry and intense flowers. Massive nose. Full bodied yet reserved, with silky tannins and a fruity and refined finish. Seamless.From 100-year-old vines. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU FLEUR-CARDINALE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Intense concentration of black chocolate and berry. Full-bodied, with loads of fruit and velvety tannins. The finish is long and juicy. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LA GAFFELIÈRE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Racy and beautiful, with blueberry and blackberry aromas and flavors. Solid core of everything. Impressive. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU GRACIA St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Offers licorice and light toasty oak, with plenty of ripe fruit. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and a beautiful finish. Polished and integrated. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LARCIS-DUCASSE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Gorgeous, juicy fruit, with light wood, full and velvety tannins, and loads of Indian spices. Though there's lots going on, I was expecting a little more. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LARMANDE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Blackberry and sweet tobacco on the nose follow through to a full body, with soft and silky tannins and a very pretty finish. Balanced and refined. Nicely done. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LAROQUE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Mineral and blackberry aromas, with dried flowers and sandalwood. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a long, long finish. Polished and gorgeous. Fabulous. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LYONNAT Lussac-St.-Emilion Emotion 2009 Score: 92-95
Coffee and ripe plum, with hints of prune on the nose. Full-bodied, with beautiful fruit and supersilky tannins. Long and gorgeous. Best ever from here. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU PETIT-GRAVET-AINE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Focused, with blueberry and mineral. Full bodied, with a focused and polished finish. Wonderful tannins. 70 percent Cabernet Franc with the rest in Merlot. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU TERTRE DAUGAY St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Blackberry, black licorice and spices. What a nose. Full-bodied, with supervelvety tannins and a long, long finish. Wonderful texture. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU VILLEMAURINE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 92-95
Blackberry, black chocolate and subtle spices on the nose. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, caressing finish. This is excellent terroir, and since 2007 the new owners have been putting it together. —J.S.

Pomerol
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CHÂTEAU L'ÉGLISE CLINET Pomerol 2009 Score: 97-100
The nose on this already suggests a deep and contemplative wine with blackberry, dried flowers and sweet berries. Evolves to black olive and hints of asphalt. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and tangy, rich fruit. It really grabs hold of you and wants to tell you it's special. Loads of ripe tannins too. Big and structured. Turns to tapenade. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LAFLEUR Pomerol 2009 Score: 97-100
The nose is fascinating, with blackberry, black licorice, mineral, flowers and more. Full-bodied, with an incredible texture of ripe tannins and cashmere yarn. A tightly wound ball. What length too. This wine made me feel like getting in the lotus position and meditating. It's almost more than wine. Vinous Nirvana. I think the Cabernet Franc really gave that extra level to it all. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU PÉTRUS Pomerol 2009 Score: 97-100
What a nose this has. I close my eyes when I smell this, and I see perfectly ripe Merlot grapes crushed in the vats. Blackberry, mineral, black licorice, coffee bean and chocolate lead to a full body, with round yet firm tannins and beautiful fruit. The luxurious finish offers a cashmere texture and gorgeous fruit. Rich and subtle. Doesn't appear to be the 2005, but very close. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU TROTANOY Pomerol 2009 Score: 97-100
A nose of dark chocolate and crushed raspberry evolves to blackberry and ripe raspberry. Full-bodied, with chewy and powerful tannins that leave a rich and mouthpuckering finish. This is a big and powerful Trot. Wow. Haven't tasted a Trot like this in decades. —J.S.

VIEUX-CHÂTEAU-CERTAN Pomerol 2009 Score: 97-100
This has an incredible nose of chocolate and berries that turns to sweet tobacco and China tea leaves. Full-bodied, with a beautiful softness and silkiness that makes you want to keep tasting it. Goes on and on. 84 percent Merlot, 8 percent Cabernet Franc and 8 percent Cabernet Sauvignon. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU L'EVANGILE Pomerol 2009 Score: 96-99
I love the aromas of black olive and blueberry, with mineral and light mint. Full-bodied, with supervelvety tannins. Superlong. This is dense and very beautiful, with such a great core of fruit. Silky texture. Not sure it is going to be better than 2005 (100 pointer!) but super. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LE PIN Pomerol 2009 Score: 96-99
This is classic Merlot from Pomerol on the nose, with black licorice, black olive and rich fruit. Yet it's subtle and pretty. Full-bodied, and chewy, with loads of power. Tannic and muscular. Chocolate, coffee and vanilla bean. I can't remember a Le Pin like this. You'd have to go back to 1986, or 1983. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU CLINET Pomerol 2009 Score: 95-98
Blackberry and mineral aromas, with flowers. Full-bodied, but reserved and supersilky and pretty. This is the bomb. Forget the 1989. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LA CONSEILLANTE Pomerol 2009 Score: 95-98
Such wonderful clarity to this wine, with violets, black and exotic fruits. Fabulous nose. Full-bodied, with superfine tannins and a silky, silky finish. Such beauty. Really stunning. Class. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LA FLEUR-PÉTRUS Pomerol 2009 Score: 95-98
Licorice, blackberry, coffee bean and blueberry aromas; this gets more complex with every sniff. And what a palate. It's so polished, soft and cuddly. Like curling up in a big cashmere blanket. Full-bodied, yet balanced and fresh. Lots of tannins. But all in harmony. Hidden giant here. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU PROVIDENCE Pomerol 2009 Score: 95-98
Offers fabulous aromas of crushed blackberry and blueberry, with lightly roasted coffee bean and black olive. Full-bodied, delivering polished, chewy tannins and a long, juicy finish. Rich and powerful. Blockbuster. Roasted fruit on this. Best ever from here? —J.S.

CHÂTEAU BEAUSÉJOUR DUFFAU-LAGAROSSE St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 93-96
Offers floral and licorice notes, with gorgeous fruit. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a beautiful, very long finish. Very fine and racy. Really serious. Stéphane Derenoncourt is now consulting here and I expect great things. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU BERLIQUET St.-Emilion 2009 Score: 93-96
Offers precision and beauty, with floral, blackberry and violet aromas. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a long, balanced finish. Caressing and loving. Then hits you. A new wine from the same team of Larcis-Ducasse. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU HOSANNA Pomerol 2009 Score: 93-96
Offers ripe plum, with hints of peach, turning to violet and black olive on the nose. Fascinating aromas. Full-bodied, featuring chewy tannins that turn polished and silky. Long and flavorful at the finish. Refined power. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LE GAY Pomerol 2009 Score: 93-96
Blueberry, sea shell and blackberry aromas. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins, yet polished and cool, with a long, racy finish. Dense, with a solid core of everything. —J.S.

CLOS L'ÉGLISE Pomerol 2009 Score: 93-96
Gorgeous blueberry and blackberry aromas, with toasted oak. Complex and pretty. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long flavorful finish. Very polished. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LE BON-PASTEUR Pomerol 2009 Score: 93-96
Full and long, supervelvety and rich, with plum and raspberry. This is a really big Le Bon Pasteur. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LATOUR À POMEROL Pomerol 2009 Score: 93-96
Blueberry, with mineral and dried rose petal, lead to a full body, with chewy, yet polished tannins that go on for minutes. Solid and very pretty. Grows on the palate. Best in years. Very serious indeed. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU NENIN Pomerol 2009 Score: 93-96
What a nose of raspberry jam and violets. Amazingly rich and ripe, yet balanced and elegant. Full-bodied, with layers of ripe tannins and wonderfully ripe fruit. Opulent and sexy. Best since the 1950s? —J.S.

CHÂTEAU TOUR MAILLET Pomerol 2009 Score: 93-96
There's a deep well of dark fruit on the nose, with crushed blackberry and hints of dark chocolate. Subtle and rich. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long, long finish. Tight and powerful. Excellent length to this. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU FEYTIT-CLINET Pomerol 2009 Score: 92-95
Blackberry and licorice, with spices. Tar. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a round and beautiful finish. So silky and beautiful. Lovely texture. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU GAZIN Pomerol 2009 Score: 92-95
Blackberry and light tar aromas follow through to a full body, with soft and velvety tannins and a fruity finish. Delicate in a rich way. —J.S.

PENSÉES DE LAFLEUR Pomerol 2009 Score: 92-95
Dark chocolate, black cherry and blackberry. Full-bodied, with very silky tannins and lots of chocolate and berry flavors. I love the length to this; it goes on for minutes. Second wine of Lafleur. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU PETIT-VILLAGE Pomerol 2009 Score: 92-95
This is sexy, with beautiful ripe fruit and spices. Full bodied, with focused fruit and a long finish. Racy. So focused. Class. Best ever? —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LA POINTE Pomerol 2009 Score: 92-95
Violets, berries and black olive on the nose. Gorgeous. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, juicy finish. Lovely fruit and acidity to this wine. One of the best La Pointes for a long time. —J.S.

ROMULUS Pomerol 2009 Score: 92-95
Blueberry, with hints of tropical fruit on the nose. Full-bodied, with a rich and concentrated palate, yet balanced and focused. Serious stuff. This is a selection of the best from La Croix Taillefer. Tiny production and superhip. Organic. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU VIEUX-MAILLET Pomerol 2009 Score: 92-95
Extremely dark in color, with powerful aromas of blackberry and tar. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, rich finish. Intense and layered. Very well done. —J.S.

Pessac Léognan
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CHÂTEAU HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan 2009 Score: 97-100
A dark and brooding wine, delivering blackberry, black licorice, mahogany, subtle grilled meat and raspberry jam. Full-bodied, with layers of ripe and chewy tannins. Loads of fruit yet subtle and reserved, and a long, long finish. Super fruit, yet held back. A 2005 in the remaking, but perhaps slightly supercharged. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU HAUT-BAILLY Pessac-Léognan 2009 Score: 95-98
Lovely sweet berry and plum aromas, with hints of sandalwood and cedar. Full-bodied, with milk chocolate, berry and vanilla bean character. Thick and dense tannins, but balanced and very pretty. Sneaks up on you. Really powerful in tannins. This could be better than the fab 2005. 60 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 37 percent Merlot and 3 percent Cabernet Franc. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU SMITH-HAUT-LAFITTE Pessac-Léognan 2009 Score: 95-98
Clean. Blackberry and lightly toasted oak with coffee and cedar. Full-bodied and a very, very powerful structure. Blockbuster. Massive and dense, yet remains agile. A triumph for this estate. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LA MISSION-HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan 2009 Score: 94-97
Shows juicy aromas of ripe Cabernet Sauvignon and currant, with hints of forest fruits and sandalwood. Full-bodied, offering chewy, mouthcoating tannins that are fruit-coated and velvety. Dense and powerful. A little subdued. Could be better than I think. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU PAPE CLÉMENT Pessac-Léognan 2009 Score: 94-97
There's lovely density and beauty to this young wine, with tobacco, light vanilla, chocolate and ripe fruit. Full and polished, with velvety tannins. Long and reserved, but very, very serious. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LES CARMES-HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan 2009 Score: 93-96
This is gorgeous, with blackberry and licorice and spice. Full and silky-textured tannins turn chewy, but finishes with class. Best ever? So impressive. —J.S.

DOMAINE DE CHEVALIER Pessac-Léognan 2009 Score: 93-96
Shows a super nose of crushed blueberry and blackberry, with hints of raspberry. Full-bodied, offering a fabulous core of fruit and ripe tannins that caress your palate for minutes. Love the chocolate and blueberry character. Wonderful texture. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU DE FIEUZAL Pessac-Léognan 2009 Score: 93-96
Intense blueberry, coffee bean and toasted oak character follows through to a full body, with supervelvety tannins and a long, long finish. This is really excellent. Best Fieuzal in years. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU BRANON Pessac-Léognan 2009 Score: 92-95
Love the nose on this, with blackberry, licorice and stone. Full-bodied, with supersilky and ultrafine tannins. This wine goes on and on. —J.S.

Pauillac
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CHÂTEAU LATOUR Pauillac 2009 Score: 97-100
This is incredibly floral on the nose, with violet and lilac as well as dark and ripe raspberry and blueberry. Full-bodied, with a dense and incredibly rich palate yet held back and in reserve. Such precision and beauty. It lasts for minutes on the palate. This reminds me of the 1990, but better made and better raised. It is really the style of Latour, where the tannins grab you at the end. This will most likely be a perfect wine. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU MOUTON-ROTHSCHILD Pauillac 2009 Score: 97-100
I am speechless over the nose in this wine. Mint, blackberry, currant and black licorice turn to flowers such as lilacs and roses. Wow. It fills your mouth with the same fruit, but with an intensity of superpolished tannins. It finishes with complex yet reserved coffee, toasted oak and ripe fruit and then in two or three minutes it becomes milk chocolate. Just a joy to taste. Best Mouton since 1982 or 1986; in fact, it's like a bend of the two. A perfect Mouton? 88 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 12 percent Merlot. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LAFITE ROTHSCHILD Pauillac 2009 Score: 96-99
Offers currant and wild raspberry, with a lilac and exotic character on the nose, turning to sweet tobacco and cedar. Full-bodied, showing very racy tannins and a balance of pretty fruit. This is powerful yet elegant, almost delicate, with a wonderful polish. But then the tannins take off. Muscular yet agile. A very classic Bordeaux style. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LYNCH-BAGES Pauillac 2009 Score: 96-99
The nose shows amazing aromas of mint, spices and currant, with underlying licorice and tar. Full-bodied, with amazing fruit and a long, long finish. Powerful. Blockbuster, but balanced. So structured. Lynch has not made a wine like this since perhaps 1989 or 1982. Better than Wine of the Year 1985 Lynch. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU PICHON-LONGUEVILLE-LALANDE Pauillac 2009 Score: 95-98
Wow. This has an incredible complexity on the nose of currant, spice, mineral and flowers. Full-bodied, with a great density of fruit and tannins, yet polished and beautiful. This could be the new 1982 from here. Made from 75 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 20 percent Merlot and 5 percent Petit Verdot. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU PONTET-CANET Pauillac 2009 Score: 95-98
Delivers aromas of blueberry skin, fresh flowers, licorice and raspberry sauce, with something exotic underneath it all. Full-bodied, with wonderful clarity and freshness. It's like looking at a full moon on a crystal-clear night in the country. This keeps coming at you, with tannins and ripe fruit. What balance, yet power to the wine. I love how the wine changes and challenges you with every sip. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU GRAND-PUY-LACOSTE Pauillac 2009 Score: 94-97
Lovely nose of sweet currant and blueberry that follows through to a full body, with juicy, velvety tannins and a licorice, tar and dark chocolate finish. Like it. The new 1982? —J.S.

CHÂTEAU CLERC MILON Pauillac 2009 Score: 93-96
Delivers blackberry galore, with fabulous floral and currant undertones. Complex on the nose. Full-bodied, offering chewy tannins and lots of black licorice and currant character. Chewy, but reserved at the same time. A top Clerc. 50 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 44 percent Merlot, 4 percent Cabernet Franc, 1 percent Petit Verdot and 1 percent Carmenère. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU BATAILLEY Pauillac 2009 Score: 92-95
Currant and blackberry on the nose, with hints of toasted oak. Full-bodied, with big, chewy tannins. This is the biggest Batailley in years. Lots of improvement here. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU BELLEGRAVE Pauillac 2009 Score: 92-95
Concentrated, with loads of currant and blackberry that turn to mint on the nose. Full-bodied, with polished and velvety tannins. Beautiful finish with licorice and fruit. Really excellent. —J.S.

LES FORTS DE LATOUR Pauillac 2009 Score: 92-95
Violet and mineral, with hints of blackberry and blueberry on the nose. Full-bodied, with superreserved and refined tannins, yet dense and very impressive. Long and racy. Lasts for minutes. Second wine of Latour. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU PICHON-LONGUEVILLE-BARON Pauillac 2009 Score: 92-95
Loads of currant and blackberry, with mineral and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with ultrafine, very long tannins. Really builds on the palate. A racy style, with excellent length. —J.S.

St Estèphe
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CHÂTEAU COS-D'ESTOURNEL St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 97-100
This smells like Harlan a bit. Supercharged in fruit, with intense aromas of tar, spice, cardamon, clove, blackberry and black pepper. Crazy nose. Full-bodied, with masses of fruit, yet focused and in form. Chewy tannins, with great length. This goes on and on. Incredibly exotic. Could be best ever from here? —J.S.

CHÂTEAU MONTROSE St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 97-100
Big and structured, delivering wild aromas of Indian spices, crushed berry, sweet tobacco and coffee. Full-bodied, with loads of velvety, chewy tannins and a long spicy finish. The château says this is like the 1990, but I think it could be even better. It's certainly better made. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU CALON-SÉGUR St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 93-96
Delivers gorgeous aromas of blackberry, blueberry and licorice, with hints of tobacco and spice. Full-bodied, offering a lovely texture and refinement. Very long and beautiful, with tangy acidity and lively fruit. A rich, yet very balanced, Calon. This is almost all Cabernet Sauvignon instead of the normal blend with 40 percent Merlot. The château is now using 100 percent new wood. Like the changes. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LILIAN LADOUYS St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 92-95
Dark color, with a spiced nose of cloves and cardamom. Tar too. Full-bodied, with round and velvety tannins and a rich, fruity aftertaste. Gorgeous young wine. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU MEYNEY St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 92-95
Spicy and beautiful with blackberry and currant character. Full and silky, with beautiful fruit and a long finish. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LES ORMES-DE-PEZ St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 92-95
Superb concentration, with spice, currant and berry character. Full and velvety. So long. At same quality level as the legendary 1955, or 1959. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU TOUR DES TERMES St.-Estèphe 2009 Score: 92-95
Wow. Great nose of bright dark berries and currant, with Indian spices as well. Full-bodied, with round and chewy tannins, but polished and very pretty and enticing. Big juicy wine with balance. This small estate continues to make excellent wines in top vintages. —J.S.

Saint Julien
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CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE LAS CASES St.-Julien 2009 Score: 97-100
Black color. What a nose. Black licorice, raspberry, currant and dried flowers galore. Full-bodied and superpowerful, with masses of fruit and toasted oak, but a blockbuster finish of fruit, tannins and everything else. I have never tasted such a flashy sample. I am blown away by this. A more fruit-forward style for Las Cases. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU DUCRU-BEAUCAILLOU St.-Julien 2009 Score: 96-99
This has an impressive powerful and hearty structure, with seductive floral, currant and licorice aromas and flavors, showing powerful tannins at the end. This sneaks up on you at the end. Structured and very, very powerful. The blockbuster tannins are sweet and fruit-coated. This is a classic, powerful style of Ducru. May be best yet. Wow. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU GRUAUD-LAROSE St.-Julien 2009 Score: 94-97
Beautiful aromas of currant, black licorice and blueberry follow through to a full body, with chewy tannins and a long, juicy finish. Big wine. Could be better than the classic 2000. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE POYFERRÉ St.-Julien 2009 Score: 93-96
Wonderful aromas of currant and blackberry, with black olives. Full-bodied, with a mouth-coating palate of supersoft tannins that go on and on. Solid and polished. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU BRANAIRE-DUCRU St.-Julien 2009 Score: 92-95
Aromas of blueberry, dried citrus fruit and currant. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long, long finish. Structured and tannic, but sweet fruit behind. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE BARTON St.-Julien 2009 Score: 92-95
Licorice, berry, grape and currant on the nose turns to crushed fruit. Full-bodied, with very fine tannins, pretty fruit, currant and mineral. A balanced and pretty wine. Not quite the intensity and blockbuster style of the 2005, but excellent. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU TALBOT St.-Julien 2009 Score: 92-95
A red with a solid core of blueberry and currant aromas, with spices too. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a balanced finish. Very pretty. —J.S.

Margaux
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CHÂTEAU MALESCOT-ST.-EXUPÉRY Margaux 2009 Score: 97-100
This is absolutely fabulous. I love the complex aromas of ripe fruit and fresh flowers that turn to mineral and raspberry, along with tannins on the finish. This changes all the time. Full-bodied and dense, but so beautiful and long. The layers of ultrafine tannins just turn off the tip of your tongue. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU MARGAUX Margaux 2009 Score: 96-99
The nose is so intensely fruity, but subtle and reserved at the same time. Fascinating. Full-bodied, yet superrefined, building on the palate. It's like watching a long-distance runner starting off slowly but continuing along his or her path. Fine and dense tannins. A few minutes in the glass and the massive tannins show. Muscular and subdued. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU PALMER Margaux 2009 Score: 95-98
Loaded with exotic fruit, with masses of crushed blackberry and blueberry. Superclear and fruit forward. Full and velvety, with fresh acidity and a long, long finish. This is almost in your face, but reserved in a way. Superseductive. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU PRIEURÉ-LICHINE Margaux 2009 Score: 94-97
Complex aromas of mineral, blueberry and currant follow through to a full body, with superfine tannins and a long, long finish. This is exceptional. Best of all time. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU CANTENAC-BROWN Margaux 2009 Score: 93-96
Fresh berry and currant, with mint and spices. Full-bodied, with supervelvety tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Toasted oak, ripe fruit, everything. A beauty. Best ever. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU POUGET Margaux 2009 Score: 93-96
Currant and blackberry galore on the nose, but the palate seems subtle and beautiful. Full-bodied, with wonderful silky tannins and a mineral, mint and berry aftertaste. Such delicious fruit here. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU RAUZAN-SÉGLA Margaux 2009 Score: 93-96
Shows a lovely concentration of currant and blackberry. Hints of vanilla follow through to a full body, with layers of ripe fruit and fine, fruit-coated tannins. I love the ripe and pretty fruit to this. Very fruit-forward. The château cut back on the new wood, and went for a fruitier style. I like that. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU CHANTELUNE Margaux 2009 Score: 92-95
Blueberry, licorice and hints of toasted oak on the nose. Full-bodied, with wonderful concentration and texture. Long, long finish. This is fab. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU GISCOURS Margaux 2009 Score: 92-95
Subtle and pretty on the nose, with blueberry, blackberry and hints of flowers. Full and very fine, showing a beautiful texture of polished tannins. Wonderfully long and balanced. 53 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 7 percent Cabernet Franc, and the rest is Merlot. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU KIRWAN Margaux 2009 Score: 92-95
Wow. A subtle yet fabulous burst of fruit on the nose, with currant, mineral and flowers. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a fruity, beautiful finish. So pretty. Chewy. Big Kirwan. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LASCOMBES Margaux 2009 Score: 92-95
Fascinating aromas of crushed berries and fresh herbs follow through to a full body, with velvety, polished tannins and a long, long finish. Wonderful wine. More reserved than the 2005, but potentially better. —J.S.

MAROJALLIA Margaux 2009 Score: 92-95
This is really racy and beautiful, with mineral and berry aromas and flavors. Full-bodied, but tight and long. There's gorgeous texture and class to this. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU MARQUIS DE TERME Margaux 2009 Score: 92-95
Blackberry and mineral on the nose, with hints of mint. Full-bodied, with superpolished and silky tannins and a long, flavorful finish. All there. Best ever? —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LA TOUR DE MONS Margaux 2009 Score: 92-95
Bright blackberry and sweet currant aromas follow through to a full body, silky and refined, with an excellent density and a long, long finish. Soild and polished. Best ever from here? —J.S.

2009 Dry White Bordeaux
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DOMAINE DE CHEVALIER Pessac-Léognan White 2009 Score: 95-98
This is fabulous, long and superintense, with dried pineapple and sliced apples. Dense and powerful, with a great backbone of acidity and a long, long finish. Wonderful structure in this baby white. —J.S.

PAVILLON BLANC DU CHÂTEAU MARGAUX Bordeaux 2009 Score: 95-98
Shows impressive aromas of lemon rind and papaya, with hints of cream. Full and very layered, with the density of a red wine. Long and flavorful, offering a pretty balance of ripe fruit and acidity like a grand cru Burgundy. The château says that they have pulled back the alcohol and given the wine a little more freshness and length. It worked. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan White 2009 Score: 94-97
Shows exotic tropical fruit such as lychee and mango, with citrus undertones and cream. Full-bodied, offering loads of intense fruit on the palate. Bright acidity and a minerally, flinty undertone. Impressive finish. Not the 2007, but very good indeed. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LA MISSION-HAUT-BRION Pessac-Léognan White 2009 Score: 93-96
Subtle yet intense aromas of lemon pie, apple crumble and Brazilian lime follow through to a full body, with a dense concentration of fruit but an excellent backbone of acidity that turns to peaches and dried lemons on the finish. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU SMITH-HAUT-LAFITTE Pessac-Léognan White 2009 Score: 93-96
Rich yet balanced with pineapple, sliced green apple and hints of citrus fruit with delicate cream undertones. Full, balanced and beautiful. Aniseed character as well, and fresh. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU BARET Pessac-Léognan White 2009 Score: 90-93
A beautiful white with lemon and apple tart aromas and flavors. Full and balanced, with lively fruit. Finishes long and pretty. 27 percent Sémillon and 73 percent Sauvignon Blanc. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU DE FIEUZAL Pessac-Léognan White 2009 Score: 90-93
Tangy, with lots of lemon and other citrus fruit character on the nose and palate. Excellent density of fruit and good acidity for the vintage. This is going places. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU MALARTIC-LAGRAVIÈRE Pessac-Léognan White 2009 Score: 90-93
Delicious on the nose. Apple pie and subtle pineapple aromas follow through to a full body, with beautiful fruit and a long finish. —J.S.

2009 Sauternes & Barsac
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CHÂTEAU D'YQUEM Sauternes 2009 Score: 97-100
What a fabulous wine. It's an explosion of fruit, yet it's very refined. I absolutely love the nose on this, with apricot tart, apple crumble, caramel and crème brûlée. Full-bodied, superripe and spicy, with mango, papaya, spices and sweet dried lemons. Incredibly long. It really rocks your socks off. Amazing. This could be even better than 2001. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU COUTET Barsac 2009 Score: 95-98
Lemon custard, with honey and apple pie aromas. Full-bodied, with wonderful intensity and a spicy dried lemon and mineral finish. Very powerful, with lots of botrytis. Could be the Sauternes of the year. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU DOISY-DAËNE Sauternes L'Extravagant 2009 Score: 95-98
This is rich and concentrated, with crème brûlée and apple crumble on the nose and palate. Full-bodied and very sweet. Thick and powerful. Layered and massive. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU GUIRAUD Sauternes 2009 Score: 95-98
This rocks with botrytis, offering spicy almond, peach pie and dried apricot on the nose and palate. Full and very sweet, with a long finish. So much dried fruit. Oily and powerful. Some bitterness. 35 percent Sauvignon Blanc and 65 percent Sémillon. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU DE MYRAT Barsac 2009 Score: 94-97
Dried apricot and citrus fruit aromas follow through to a full body, with a very sweet and intense palate. Finishes with lots of fruit and spicy nutmeg character. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU SUDUIRAUT Sauternes 2009 Score: 94-97
Pear and lemon pie aromas and flavors. Full and powerful, with lots of sweet fruit and a long, spicy finish. Racy, layered and beautiful. —J.S.

CLOS HAUT-PEYRAGUEY Sauternes 2009 Score: 93-96
Full-bodied and medium sweet, with apple pie, honey and cream flavors. Long and intense. Very well done. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU CAILLOU Barsac 2009 Score: 92-95
Lemon peel, spices and honey on the nose. Full-bodied, with a dense yet elegant structure. Medium sweet, with a spicy finish. Stylish. Very well done. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU DOISY-VÉDRINES Sauternes 2009 Score: 92-95
Shows lots of lemon pie and almond spice, with hints of bitter lemon. Full-bodied, with a nutmeg and honey finish. Racy. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU NAIRAC Barsac 2009 Score: 92-95
Full-bodied and sweet, with lots of sliced citrus fruit and spicy bitter almond and honey on the finish. Powerful. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU DE RAYNE-VIGNEAU Sauternes 2009 Score: 92-95
Shows notes of orange and lemon peel, with dried apple. Full-bodied and very sweet, with a thick and layered palate. Long and spicy. Solid and well made. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU RIEUSSEC Sauternes 2009 Score: 92-95
Lemon peel and pear tart on the nose. Full-bodied and medium sweet, with good acidity, lemon meringue flavors and a spicy finish. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU SIGALAS-RABAUD Sauternes 2009 Score: 92-95
Vanilla spice and honey aromas follow through to a very sweet, full-bodied palate, with a spicy and fruity finish. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU D'ARCHE Sauternes 2009 Score: 91-94
Intense apple pie and lime aromas follow through to a full body. Medium sweet, with a spicy botrytis finish. Offers lots of subtle character. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU DE FARGUES Sauternes 2009 Score: 91-94
Pear pie and blanched almond on the nose. Full-bodied and medium sweet, with a subtle spice, honey and sliced apple character. Like sorbet. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LA TOUR BLANCHE Sauternes 2009 Score: 91-94
Dense and very rich on the palate. Medium sweet, with lemon pie and meringue notes and a textured finish. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU BROUSTET Sauternes 2009 Score: 90-93
Lemon curd on the nose, with hints of honey. Full-bodied, with lots of dried peach and lemon flavors. Medium sweet, with a lively finish, showing spicy botrytis at the end. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU DOISY-DAËNE Barsac 2009 Score: 90-93
Intense aromas of dried citrus fruit and honey follow through to a full body. Medium sweet, thick and layered, with sliced cooked apple notes and a delicate spicy finish. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LAFAURIE-PEYRAGUEY Sauternes 2009 Score: 90-93
Focused and very clean, with apple pie and crème brûlée aromas. Full-bodied and medium sweet, with a fruity finish. A little one-dimensional. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU LAMOTHE-GUIGNARD Sauternes 2009 Score: 90-93
Thick and very sweet, with lots of honey notes and an almost syrupy structure. Spicy botrytis on the finish. A little loosely knit, but interesting. —J.S.

CHÂTEAU RABAUD-PROMIS Sauternes 2009 Score: 90-93
Sliced pear and apple, with honey and spices. Full-bodied, with apple pie and honey flavors and a pretty finish. —J.S.