The 2009 Malartic-Lagravière Blanc is a noteworthy representation of Bordeaux Blanc from the Pessac Leognan sub-region in France. This vintage is a blend predominantly composed of 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Semillon, and it boasts a substantial 14% alcohol content, closed with a traditional cork.
This wine has received a range of accolades from several esteemed reviewers. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it a high score of 95, noting its "lemon and lime marmalade intermixed with honeysuckle, a whiff of freshly cut grass, and a waxy melony character," describing it as "serious wine" that should age well for two decades or more. Parker's praise underscores the wine's complex aroma and robust potential longevity.
Alex Shaw from JJ Buckley also commended the wine, giving it a score of 94. Shaw highlighted its "aromas of salt air and minerals mix with notes of tart citrus as well as a hint of white pineapple," appreciating its bright acidity and considering it "one of the better whites from the vintage." Shaw's review emphasizes the wine's refreshing nature and its achievement despite the warm conditions of the 2009 summer.
Wine Enthusiast also rated this wine at 94, describing it as "big, ripe and delicious," packed with "spice and sweet apricot fruits." The review noted its opulence while maintaining balance and structure, which is characteristic of the 2009 vintage. This review accentuates the wine's rich and full-bodied flavor profile.
Jeb Dunnuck's review stands out with a remarkable score of 96, praising its "spicy, complex nose of caramelized peach, orange blossom, honeyed toast, and a kiss of nuttiness." Dunnuck highlighted its "full-bodied, concentrated, opulent, and seamlessly balanced" attributes, predicting its continued excellence for another decade.
Wine Spectator and Decanter both provided solid scores of 91. Wine Spectator mentioned its "subtle toasted brioche and blanched almond notes," with a long and suave finish, while Decanter noted the "straw in character" and "spice and saffron" flavors, acknowledging the evident markers of age.
Overall, the 2009 Malartic-Lagravière Blanc is a distinguished Bordeaux Blanc that has matured gracefully, exhibiting a balance of freshness and opulence, with a complex aroma and flavor profile that has impressed reviewers across the board.