92 points Robert Parker: "The finest d’Armailhac I have tasted to date, the 2009 is largely Cabernet Sauvignon (60%) blended with a big wallop of Merlot (25%) and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Its dense purple color is followed by a big, sweet kiss of asphalt, black currants, mocha, barbecue smoke, cedar and spice. This medium to full-bodied, well-made, impressively endowed Pauillac should drink well for 20+ years. (Feb 2012)"

92 points Wine Spectator: "This has density, structure and drive, offering seriously dark baker's chocolate, plum, currant and fig flavors all wound up tightly by singed cedar, tar and dark tapenade notes, with a tight, mineral-driven finish. Needs a little time to unwind. Best from 2013 through 2023. (3/31/12)"

90 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "Moderately saturated dark red. Expressive nose offers redcurrant, tobacco leaf, licorice and cedar. A spicy, energetic midweight with enticing sweetness to its juicy raspberry, redcurrant and tree bark flavors. Finishes with serious dusty tannins and lovely lingering red berry flavor. (Jul 2012)"