Coming in at a lofty 13.2% natural alcohol, it offers up scents of black currants, white chocolate, berries, cedar and forest floor. Sweet tannin, a round opulence and medium body result in a classic, supple-textured Pauillac that should drink well young and keep for 12-15 years. It is very much in keeping with what most readers would consider the “house style” of Pichon Lalande, despite the fact that they are moving toward more Cabernet Sauvignon and less Petit Verdot in the final blend. Drink 2013-2028. 91-93 points

Lovely deep, intense colour. Fruity, fresh, pure, floral nose. Lovely ample attack, then the wine develops to become big and quite full considering the vintage, with taste and fine tannins. It’s delicious! There is a reminiscent note of Pomerol in its richly supple feel. Flavoursome finish – impossible to spit it out! Blend. 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. 93 points

Newly appointed from Château Montrose, Nicolas Glumineau said the team at Pichon took particular care to avoid over-extraction in 2012. The higher percentage of Merlot certainly helped, as this is a polished, assured performance from the Louis Roederer-owned property, with a combination of concentration and freshness on the palate and the backbone to age. 94 points