Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande 2006 (1.5L)

95 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "One of the most pleasant and unexpected surprises in this tasting, the 2006 Pichon Lalande is gorgeous, which is something I can’t say about too many wines in a vintage marked by climatic ups and downs and irregular ripening. Dark, powerful and intense, the 2006 possesses exceptional balance. A host of black cherry, plum, smoke, licorice and menthol flesh out in this decidedly somber, virile Pichon Lalande. In a vintage in which so many wines are so rustic, the 2006 Pichon Lalande is all class. This sleeper Pichon Lalande will drink well for at least the next two decades, perhaps longer." 06/17

95 Points, Robert M. Parker, Jr., The Wine Advocate: "The 2006 Pichon Lalande, which blows away the 2005, represents a return to the velvety-textured, rich, sexy style most readers would associate with Pichon Lalande. This blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and 36% Merlot no Petit Verdot was included in the final blend exhibits a dense purple color as well as abundant aromas of chocolate, coffee, cedar, black currants, and a subtle touch of smoke, a rich, savory, full-bodied mouthfeel, plump, fleshy fruit, and a superb finish. This is a 21st century version of the brilliant 1996. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2030." 02/09

94 Points, Charles Curtis, Decanter: "The 2006 Pichon Comtesse is true to the best traditions of this property: abundantly aromatic, with notes of ripe plummy fruit, fresh flowers, and a hint of dark chocolate, and a texture that features supple tannins, impressive density, and a lingering finish. The wine is approachable now, almost unbelievably friendly, and yet there is enough substance here to ensure that it will continue to improve for decades. The blend is 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and 36% Merlot, aged in cask (half new) for 18 months." 03/25

94 Points, Neal Martin, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Tasted at the property, the 2006 Château Pichon-Lalande has a voluminous bouquet with outgoing blackberry, cassis and violets scents, a touch of boysenberry jam tucked just underneath, although it does not quite have the delineation of the Lynch Bages. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin. This feels very composed in the mouth, quite fresh with well-judged acidity, harmonious and tensile on the finish. This deserves a higher score than I awarded out of barrel and it continues to improve year by year. Tasted April 2016." 05/16