Giscours 2017 (750ML)

90-92 Points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate:"Blended of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot, the medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2017 Giscours is scented of crushed black currants, blackberry tart and black raspberries with touches of Indian spices, Sichuan pepper and violets plus a waft of chocolate box. Medium-bodied with wonderful freshness defining the palate and elevating the red and black fruits, it finishes with a nice ripe, grainy texture paving the way. In 2017, the lower parts of Giscours were hit by frost. Consequently, yields are down by about 40%. Harvest was a relatively long one here - starting on September 14 (Merlot) and finishing on October 5 (last of the Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon). The final blend was made in early March." 4/18

90-92 Points, Neli Martin, Vinous: "The 2017 Giscours, picked 15 September to 5 October, is matured in 50% new oak with around 5 or 6% of vin de presse. It has a perfumed bouquet with black fruit, a touch of oyster shell and iris, very pure and quite sensual in style. It does not make an immediate impact but rather grows on you. The palate is medium-bodied, the mouthfeel supple, smooth and harmonious with fine-grain tannin, perhaps just missing a little structure towards the conservative, straight-laced finish. That suggests it will be an approachable Giscours compared to the 2015 and 2016, but one with breeding and class. Tasted on three occasions. Drink 2021 - 2040." 5/18

90-93+ Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2017 Giscours is a terrific, and also a worthy follow up to both the 2015 and 2016. Rich and pliant in the glass, the 2017 exudes notable depth in its super-ripe dark cherry, plum, chocolate, leather and menthol flavors. Above all else, the 2017 offers a striking combination of juiciness, freshness and brightness, with terrific depth and plenty of nuance. The 2017 finishes with notable creaminess and textural elegance. This is very nicely done." 5/18

92-93 Points, James Suckling: "A firm and silky red with dark-berry, cherry and mineral aromas and flavors. Medium to full body, fine tannins and a driven finish. Very dialed-in." 4/18

89-92 Points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator: "A mix of savory and mint notes lead off here, followed quickly by juicy dark plum and black cherry fruit. Light anise and iron hints show on the finish. Fairly breezy and open in feel throughout" 4/18

93 Points, Decanter: "An accomplished, enjoyable Giscours. The fruit character is less generous than 2015 and 2016, but it still has presence and charm. Damson, bilberry, charcoal and slate are cradled by fine tannins that point to well-controlled extraction. There's no dip through the mid-palate, and the overall structure is juicy and elegant rather than exuberant. A juicy frame that will age well. Drinking Window 2025 - 2038. " 4/18