2009 Haut-Bages Liberal (Pauillac)

Neal Martin:

Tasted at the UGC. A blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon and 32% Merlot, this has a ripe, quite floral, feminine nose with bright black fruits, pencil shaving and a touch of cedar. Very Pauillac, refined and understated. The palate has slightly chewy tannins on the entry, giving way to a more succulent texture with a little aeration. blackcurrant wine gums, cedar, a touch of white pepper, foursquare with graphite on the finish. It could do with a little more depth and length, but I appreciate the balance and poise and I think this will round out during élevage. Tasted March 2010. 90-92 points

Steven Spurrier:

Black red, finely concentrated and rather tight black-currant fruit, a certain leafy leanness that is made up for by good middle concentration and length. Drink 2015-25. 17 points

Ian D`Agata:

Purple ruby. Red cherry, violet, cedar and minerals on the expressive nose. Juicy on entry, then densely packed and vibrant in the middle, with a fine-grained texture to its red fruit and floral flavors.