Château Valandraud Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Premier Grand Cru Classé | 2015 | 750 ml.

SP94+ Wine Spectator Web only – 2016

"Displays beautiful fruit from the start, with cassis, raspberry and boysenberry notes moving together seamlessly, carried by a polished structure through the caressing finish. Seriously pure." (94–97 pts.)

WE96+ Wine Enthusiast 5/1/2016

"This is a sumptuous wine, with dark tannins and powerful fruits. It is concentrated and dense, with sweet acidity, fine spice and luscious berry flavors that are framed by fine, lasting tannins." (96–98 pts.)

RP95+ Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate 1st Apr 2016

"The 2015 Chateau Valandraud is founded upon Jean-Luc Thunevin’s ever-reliable Merlot parcels, and this year the blend is augmented with 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. It has a glorious and damn irresistible bouquet of crème de cassis, blueberry, crushed violets and a scintilla of citrus fruit, all beautifully defined and very precise. In 2015 it is determined to put a gap between itself and the Virginie de Valandraud. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, creamy in texture but not in the slightest cloying. The acidity is well judged with layers of caressing black fruit towards a finish for which I could only deploy the word — nubile. This will be a stunning Valandraud to savor over the next couple of decades, though it will be difficult to resist temptation in its youth." (95–97 pts.)

VN93+ Vinous Apr 2016

"Deep, and beautifully layered, the 2015 Valandraud offers fabulous richness to match its seamless, alluring personality. Crème de cassis, blackberry jam, spice, licorice, menthol and lavender give the 2015 much of its unctuous feel. Silky tannins help reinforce an impression of opulence. As always, Valandraud is one of the most exotic, intense wines in Saint-Émilion, and yet, all the elements are very nicely woven together. The 2015 is 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, all fermented in barrel. Tasted two times." (93–96 pts.)

JS98+ JamesSuckling.com Friday, March 25, 2016

"A fabulous Valandraud with verve and distinction. So much bright blackberry, mineral and dark chocolate character. Full and ultra-silky textured. Powerful and balanced finish. A joy to taste. Purity. Greatest Valandraud ever. 85% merlot, 10% cabernet franc and 5% cabernet sauvignon." (98–99 pts.)