83% cabernet sauvignon 17% merlot. A prime example of why the wines of St. Julien may be the finest of all appellations in 2009. Silky and luscious this is a wine that is virtually ready to drink right now. Blackberry black cherry and raspberry fruit mix with notes of black and white pepper eucalyptus and licorice. Deep and complex the fruit is prominent but balanced with ample acidity all tied up with fine silky tannins. This should be magnificent after two decades but considering how wonderful it is drinking upon release its doubtful many people will hold it that long.

Medium to deep garnet in color, the 2009 Saint-Pierre displays maturing notes of crème de cassis, blackberry pie and prunes with hints of cardamom, fennel and star anise. Full-bodied, concentrated and jam-packed with black fruit preserves and fantastic freshness to balance, it has a firm, grainy texture and very long, exotic spice finish. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown

Even in such a ripe vintage as 2009, you'll find appellation typicity, and this is a perfectly-drawn St Julien. Plum and blackberry fruits, cocoa bean, espresso, crayon, incense and crushed mint leaf, balanced and juicy. Still on the young side - you can begin drinking now, or give it a few more years before cracking it open - then invite some of your favourite people around and get ready to make them smile. 55% new oak.

Dark and winey with lots of graphite and espresso-tinged grip driving the dark plum braised fig and steeped black currant fruit flavors. Features lots of tar and briar on the finish. Muscular but mouthwatering. Should unwind nicely in the cellar. Best from 2014 through 2025.