Clos du Marquis 2019 (750ML)

94 Points, William Kelley, Wine Advocate: "The 2019 Clos du Marquis is another cuvée from the Delon family that’s smaller than usual this year, as fully 20% of the vineyards that inform this bottling are in various stages of replanting, with the objective of bringing the percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon vines up to more than 70%. Exhibiting aromas of inky cassis, plums, incense, wood smoke and spices, it’s medium to full-bodied, fleshy and concentrated, with lively acids, beautifully powdery tannins and a supple, more immediately charming profile than its big sibling across the street, Léoville-Las Cases." 04/22

93-95 Points, Neal Martin, Vinous: "The 2019 Clos du Marquis was picked from 21 September to 9 October and matured in 50% new oak. It has a deep and quite penetrating bouquet: blackberry, hoisin intermingling with cedar and light pencil shaving scents. It becomes noticeably richer with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins that frame the vivid blackberry and wild strawberry fruit laced with orange sorbet. There is a citric freshness towards the end of this accomplished Clos du Marquis. Excellent." 6/20

94 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2019 is an exuberant, plush Clos du Marquis packed with inky, dark fruit. All the signatures of Saint-Julien and this estate are all amplified in the glass. Licorice, lavender, spice and mocha develop, adding gorgeous layers to this decidedly extroverted Clos du Marquis. I haven't always been thrilled with how Clos du Marquis ages, but for drinking over the near and medium term, the 2019 is positively stellar." 02/22

93 Points, James Suckling: "So much gravel and dark-fruit character with raspberries and blackcurrants, as well as currant leaf. It’s medium-to full-bodied with very fine, rounded tannins and a bright finish. 70% cabernet sauvignon, 23% merlot and 7% cabernet franc. Drinkable now, but even better in 2024." 02/22