Gazin 2017 (750ML)

95 Points, Chris Deas, Zachys Buying Team: "It is one of our most welcomed and exciting tastings of the year - the debuts from Fontodi. The Zachys team tasted this beside the more concentrated and generous Flaccianello. In our opinion, the 2015 Fontodi Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is the more rustic, more red fruit driven, and upright expression of the noble Sangiovese, showcasing finesse and vibrancy -- and that's just it, that's what we love about this wine. The ripeness of the vintage does show through, but with more restraint than the Flaccianello. Expect to find nuances of red cherries, brown spice, wild herbs, tobacco, damp earth, a touch of citrus and leather. As great Italian sommelier David Lynch would say, classic San-joe. It should be noted, where the Flaccianello is a cuvée of the estate's best fruit from across Panzano's historic vineyards in the Conca d'Oro (golden bowl), it is the Vigna del Sorbo that consists of Sangiovese from one prized, single vineyard. Tremendous now, but needs a little time."

90-93 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2017 Gazin is lush, sensual and enveloping, with lovely palate presence and tons of pure class. Bright floral notes perk up the red berry fruit in a seductive, open-knit Pomerol that captures the best the vintage has to offer. In 2017 Gazin is quite giving today, but also has a good bit of freshness and aromatic nuance that should allow it to develop nicely for years to come. Tasted three times." 5/18

91-93 Points, Neal Martin, Vinous: "The 2017 Gazin has a very classic Pomerol bouquet with black brambly fruit infused with black truffle and subtle raspberry confit notes. Then, as it opens, there are loamy aromas that lend more complexity. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannin and a fine bead of acidity. There is a slightly powdery texture, feeling quite saline. White pepper and fennel notes become more conspicuous towards the finish. Just a classic Gazin from proprietor Nicolas de Bailliencourt and his team." 5/18

94-95 Points, James Suckling: "A dense and flavorful red already with dark-berry, seaweed and wet-earth undertones. Full body and round and chewy tannins. Green olives on the finish. Serious for the vintage." 4/18

90-92 Points, Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast: "This is a fine, spicy wine, rich in firm tannins as well as rounded, ripe black-fruit flavors. It is dense and concentrated, and should take a while to fully develop." 4/18