92 points James Suckling: "A soft and fruity wine, with lovely fruit and a lively tangy acidity. Lasts for a long time. Why wait? But will improve with age as well. (2/14/12)"

90 points Robert Parker: "Another major sleeper of the vintage, this consistently well-made wine (another consulting job by Stephane Derenoncourt) has hit pay dirt. It came in at 14% natural alcohol, with a final blend of 99% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon. Vivid, explosive black cherry and blackberry fruit intermixed with some subtle charcoal as well as loamy soil and tobacco leaf notes are all present in the complex aromatics. Full-bodied, fleshy, without a hard edge to be found, this velvety-textured wine is ideal for drinking over the next 2-4 years. Who said Bordeaux doesn’t produce terrific wines at low price points? (Feb 2012)"

17.75/20 points Decanter: "Richly oaky nose, with just a hint of stewed fruit but not over the top. Fresh attack. Certain minerality. Firm tannic structure. It has line and length. Definitely a more serious wine. Should age. Drink: 2013-2022. Alcohol 13%. (Dec 2012)"