Chateau Barde Haut 2017

JAMES SUCKLING: "A complex, composed impression on the nose with rich plum and earthy aromas, nicely framed in oak spice. All working well. The palate has a very smooth, supple feel with a plush build of attractive, fleshy fruit and a very impressive hold of juicy blue fruit on the finish. Drink of hold."

THE WINE CELLAR INSIDER: "This is developing right on course. The wine is richly textured, round, lush and even now, you can already enjoy the smoke, licorice, black cherry, wet earth and floral sensations. As good as this is today, if you can hold off for another 3-5 years, it should be even better!"

WINE SPECTATOR: "This features a seductive core of anise-steeped plum, blackberry and black currant fruit flavors set against a backdrop of singed alder, savory and smoldering tobacco notes. A hint of licorice snap adds a kick on the finish. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2022 through 2034. 4,166 cases made."

THE WINE ADVOCATE: "Barde-Haut didn't see any frost this year due to the altitude of the vineyards. Composed of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, the deep garnet-purple colored 2017 Barde-Haut gives notions of baked blackberries, blueberry compote and Black Forest cake with touches of potpourri, dusty soil and cast iron pan. The palate is medium to full-bodied with a firm frame of grainy tannins and great freshness, finishing long and minerally."

WEINWISSER: "Purpur mit schwarzer Mitte und lila Reflexen. Opulentes Heidelbeerbouquet, dahinter Kirschlikör und Veilchen. Am Gaumen mit cremiger Textur, polierten Tanninen, stützender Frische. Im gebündelten Finale mit einem Feuerwerk von Brombeeren und Holundergelee – sehr aromatisch, gut gemacht!"

JEB DUNNUCK: "The 2017 Chateau Barde-Haut showed beautifully, with more dark fruits, red currants, sappy flowers, mocha, and hints of herbs all emerge from the glass. With plenty of classic Saint-Emilion minerality, medium to full body, ripe tannins, and good acidity, it's a very pretty, elegant 2017 that's going to benefit from just short-term cellaring and drink nicely for 15 years or more. Purchased late in 2000 by the Helene Garcin and Patrice Levêque, who also run Clos l’Eglise in Pomerol, this estate covers 17 hectares of a south-facing amphitheater on the eastern side of the appellation. This is an incredibly talented team, and since arriving, they’ve entirely renovated the cellars as well as raised the level of farming up with the top estates in the appellation. The wines shine for their purity and finesse yet still have beautiful fruit and richness."