Talbot 2019 (750ML)

93 Points, William Kelley, Wine Advocate: "The 2019 Talbot is performing well, opening in the glass with aromas of earthy cassis, plums, burning embers and pencil shavings. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and succulent, with powdery tannins, lively acids and a savory finish, it's Jean-Michel Laporte's second vintage at this sleeping giant of Saint-Julien. This will be an estate to watch closely going forward." 04/22

93-95 Points, Neal Martin, Vinous: "The 2019 Talbot has a very cohesive bouquet, "streamlined" being the operative word, before opening gradually to reveal a Pauillac-inspired aromatics, pencil shaving scents permeating the black fruit. Yet it is still unmistakably Talbot. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannins, creamy in texture with more depth in the middle than previous vintages (a shortcoming that, estate director Jean-Michel Laporte told me in the past he wants to address.) The great aspect of this Talbot is that it doesn't take its foot off the pedal on the finish, exerting impressive grip with that pencil lead lingering in the mouth. Superb. Expect this to land at the top of my banded score." 06/20

92Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2019 Talbot is a powerful, earthy Saint-Julien. The tannins have never softened, though. Ultimately, Talbot feels a bit heavy, four-square and forbidding. Tasted two times." 02/22

95 Points, JamesSuckling, JamesSuckling.com: "Ripe redcurrants and plums with violet and other flowers on the nose. Full-bodied with firm, polished tannins that are ripe yet firm. Pure fruit here. Pretty center-palate. Chewy finish. Give this at least five or six years to come around. Best after 2026." 01/22

94 Points, Jane Anson, JaneAnson.com: "Dark chocolate shavings and espresso aromatics on the nose, this has great depth of expression and plenty to grab hold of. Well worked tannins that are powerful and muscular but also flushed with juice. This will age well, has improved from En Primeur and this is an upscore. Highest ever level of Cabernet Sauvignon, harvest 19 September to 8 October. 60% new oak." 10/21