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08 Ch̢teau La Passion Haut Brion is the first vintage in almost 30 years for this small property. 1979 was the last vintage. Only 2,000 bottles of this wine was produced in 2008 from 1.2 Ha. The unusual assemblage of 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon will see 100% new oak. Stephane Derenoncourt is consulting with the property. The wine pops with a nose of flowers, smoke, cherry blossoms, minerals, and caramel. Here is an elegantly styled wine with a soft, round feel in the mouth. Everything is in balance. The wine finishes with blackberries, licorice, and spice that linger on the palate. 91-94 Pts (92 pts.) РTasted 8/31/2009.

Popularity: unranked [?]

(90 pts.) – Tasted 8/27/2009.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Wonderful spun-gold yellow shot through with a hint of pink from the sur-lis of only 24h; made from Cabernet Franc. Lots of floral notes but without overpowering sweetness, and the cab franc adds a soupcon of texture and earthiness to the flavor. Since it is not made in Champagne, it’s not Champagne, but vins petillant or semi-sparkling wine (seemed to be lots of bubbles tho). Had at the Bouvet-Ladubay cave and bought several bottles, all of which were (happily then, sadly now) consumed while in France last Aug/Sep. Tried to find a supplier here in the US to no avail. Cost about $16 at the winery, no doubt would cost twice that here (and I’d gladly pay it!) if it could be found. If you’re ever in Saumur, don’t miss the Bouvet-Ladubay cave, take the tour and taste the bubbly! (90 pts.) – Tasted 8/26/2009.

Popularity: unranked [?]

(88 pts.) – Tasted 8/25/2009.

Popularity: unranked [?]

(91 pts.) – Tasted 8/23/2009.

Popularity: 8% [?]

best bordeaux purchase I’ve had to date? Probably. Lots of class rolled into a smooth concentrated creamy palate. Not over oaked, balance is the key here. I wish y whole cellar was filled with this. I will kick myself every time i drink this that I only bought 6. (96 pts.) – Tasted 8/20/2009.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Dinner at Chef And The Farmer, Kinston, NC to celebrate our 20th Anniversary. I could think of no better way to end our celebration than sitting across the table from Dena sipping this old friend of a wine that we’ve had the pleasure and honor to drink on many occasions. Amber in color, this bottle was outrageously good. Still developing and it will probably do so for a couple of decades more. Has a beautiful balance of sugar and acid. Loads of apricots, peaches and burnt sugar in this wine. Extremely long on the finish. A terrific wine and evening. 50+15+14+9.5+9.5 = 98 (98 pts.) – Tasted 8/18/2009.

Popularity: unranked [?]

(84 pts.) – Tasted 8/16/2009.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Dark red color. Smoky and intense aromas of raspberry, at bit of boiled candy, pepper, spices, hot stones and something that reminds me of Christmas. Very juicy and powerful on the palate with super intense raspberry fruit on the attack, before giving nuances of spices, licorice and anise. On the finish there are some notes of Christmas cookie dough and candied peel. There is an inner warmth to this wine that reminds me of a hot summers day in Provence with hot stone and earth accompanied by viols and herbs. Exciting now, but there is no need to hurry drinking this, as it will probably put on even more nuances. (95 pts.) – Tasted 8/15/2009.

Popularity: unranked [?]

Delicious, creamy plum fruit. Very refreshing finish. Classy! (90 pts.) – Tasted 8/13/2009.

Popularity: unranked [?]