Spices, such as cloves and white pepper, with violets and dark fruit follow through to a full body with firm, chewy tannins and a polished yet intense finish. Open tannins. An ash-like undertone to it. Try after 2027.

Perhaps seeing a 100 Pt score is not a surprise here, but the devil is in detail as every vintage carries a unique signature, and this is the point of tasting and comparing. I am jealous of the younger generation of...

93–95. Barrel Sample. The second wine of Château Haut-Bailly shows a fine balance between firm tannins and generous, ripe and dense black fruits. With 60% Merlot in the blend, this rich wine has a plump character that...

The succulence of this wine is impressively palpable. It adds black currant fruits to spice, while keeping solid tannins in the background. This fine combination means it will certainly age well. Drink from 2026. Roger Voss

I loved the 2019 Château Latour-Martillac, and I under-rated it from barrel. Revealing a dense ruby/plum color as well as a gorgeous bouquet of blackcurrants, black cherry, smoked tobacco, gravely earth, and chocolate, it...