Deep garnet colored, the 2010 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande gives up notes of warm cassis, blueberry pie and kirsch with wafts of cedar chest, pencil lead, charcoal and charcuterie plus a hint of wild thyme. Medium to full-bodied, the savory-inspired palate possesses a fair bit of chew with a lively backbone and firm finish. 93 points The palate is silky smooth on the entry, very harmonious and focused, fine mineralité coming through, sensual and velvety towards the ripe finish. Extremely pure but powerful, this is a precise, brilliantly executed Pichon-Lalande. I bet Sylvie Cazes is hoping that all vintages will be like this. Drink 2016-2040. Tasted March 2011. 95-97 points

I have sampled it on two separate occasions with very different results each time. Here are my tasting notes from the tasting that took place at the château along with a marked down score. Delicate nose of mature fruits. Juicy on entry then velvety and a little denser than usual on the palate. Mellow on finish. Good length. A blend of 66% cabernet sauvignon, 24% merlot, 7% cabernet franc and 3% petit verdot. Alcohol content . 13°6 - pH levels . 3.73 - IPT . 73. 90 points