The 2009 Chateau Pichon Lalande is a thrilling wine to savor at now eleven years of age. Needing a one hour decant to be fully expressive, this glorious Bordeaux opens with a deep core of tar, chocolate covered espresso bean and blackberry compote aromas that take shape in the glass. The dense, chewy mouthfeel is lined with moderate tannins that provide the backbone alongside the bright acidity. Layers of dark fruits are woven together with creosote and shades of Turkish coffee and cassis on this expressive palate — all leading to the exceptional long and inviting finish. Truly sensational now, this beautiful, warm vintage Bordeaux will cellar well for at least another fifteen years. Be sure to give this a long decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2020-2040- 95 — 5 years ago
Whether on the roof of the Guinness brewery overlooking cloudy Dublin, or at the local pub with your best mates, a pint of this magical brew never fails to do its job. The unique juxtaposition of fresh, light, refreshing taste, combined with the the texture, weight and creaminess of a stout is always a pleasant surprise, and one no other beer can replicate. I’m looking forward to throwing a few pints back; on st Patrick’s Day, in front of a roaring fire on a rainy day, or out in the sun. Guinness doesn’t fail. — 7 years ago
Medium ruby; medium intensity aromas of red fruit, wild strawberry, cherry, red currant, pomegranate, gaminess, savory spice like allspice, black tea, white mushroom; dry, medium plus acid, medium plus tannins, medium alcohol, medium body, medium intensity flavors consistent with aromas; medium plus finish, seamless integration, perfume fills the palate, very good — 5 years ago
Four day weekend. Gotta get it off to a good start. Been awhile since we had our 375ml of Ruinart.
The nose shows, ripe, slightly candied; black cherries, strawberries, kirsch cherries, rich, summertime watermelon, touch of orange citrus family blend, pomegranate juice, hints of fruit roll up & haunting apricots. Sea fossils & spray, a little bread dough, grey volcanics, chalky powder, orange, spring flowers with fresh & withering, red & pink rose pedals.
The palate is full & touch gummy/candied. Fruits are well extracted, deep, ruby; black cherries, blackberries, strawberries, kirsch cherries, rich, summertime watermelon, touch of orange citrus family blend, pomegranate juice, hints of fruit roll up & haunting apricots. Ghostly, not quite fruit brandy or fruit liqueur character, sea fossils & spray, a little bread dough, not quite medium, white spice with hints of palate heat, grainy, grey volcanics, chalky powder, orange, spring flowers with fresh & withering, red & pink rose pedals. The acidity lively and crisp. The round, well balanced & polish finish is always consistently satisfying and lingers for minutes.
Photos of; the House of Ruinart, Dom Thierry Ruinart, nicely light caves and rolling, hillside, Grand Cru Vineyard.
Not quite sure where “D” gets $83 when you can buy this all day at just under $65. — 5 years ago
Blackberry with black pepper. Light on the tannin. Lovely with slowly simmered brisket in bone broth. Winter without ice and wet wool. Accessible. Light enough to carry into a chilly spring day- bulbs pushing through snow. Quaffing. A work night wine. — 5 years ago
M. Christopher Roebuck
Deep inky put purple color. Blackberry, smoke, eucalyptus nose, with a hint of pine/mint in the background. Initial attack is from the greenery, then quickly moves to the black fruit. Some acidity. Medium tannins, slight pruney finish. Excellent!
93 points — 5 years ago