Lafleur 2006 (750ML)

95 Points, Robert M. Parker Jr., Wine Advocate: "The 2006 Lafleur, which I had not tasted from bottle prior to this visit, merits 95 points. One of the vintate's most brilliant wines, this blend of 61% Merlot and 39% Cabernet Franc is neither as dense nor complete as the 2008, but it is structured, closed, and austere (as are many 2006s at present). It reveals a plum/purple color along with a beautifully sweet nose of black and red fruits intermixed with incense as well as a steely/iron-like smell. More open on the palate than the 2008, with more obvious spice and earthy undertones, this powerful Lafleur should be drinkable in 5-7 years, and will last for three decades. The tiny Lafleur vineyard, which was harvested between October 8-14, produced a wine with an atypically high percentage of Cabernet Franc. Proprietor Guinadeau stated that the Cabernet Franc was among the finest he had ever harvested." 4/09

98 Points, Neal Martin, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Tasted blind at Southwold '06 Bordeaux tasting. This exceeded my expectations: a Lafleur that was so difficult to pin down in barrel finally coming into its own. A lovely, reserved, smoky, gamey, tobacco tinged nose with great definition: almost northern Pauillac in style. Slightly herbaceous, but that merely complements the aromatic profile. Very fresh and rounded on the entry, firm tannins, great structure with white pepper-laced black fruits. Good acidity, great depth here with an enormously long, mouth-coating finish. The aftertaste seems to last forever. Immense. Tasted January 2010." 7/10

93 Points, Wine Spectator: " This starts off very slow, then opens to violet and lilac, with crushed raspberry and strawberry. Full-bodied, with racy, intense acidity and tannins. Powerful and layered, with wonderful, subtle fruit and a long finish. Best after 2015." 6/09