Château Pédesclaux 2018

Decanter: 94/100 - Attractive woodsmoke and sweet fruits on the nose, vibrant and creamy on the palate. There are big tannins here that build up through the palate and need time in bottle to soften.

Drinking Window 2026 - 2040

"The 2018 Pedesclaux is composed of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc. It aged for 18 months in 60% new and 40% one-year-old French oak. It has a deep garnet-purple color and nose of crushed red and black currants and blackberries with cigar box, new leather, pencil lead and crushed rocks. The palate is medium-bodied, elegant, fresh and lively with loads of mineral nuances and a lovely earthy finish." - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"So aromatic with crushed currants, raspberries and blackberries with hints of graphite and lead pencil. Full-bodied and very tight with beautiful tannins and a long, flavorful finish. The tannins really build at the end of the palate. Try from 2024." - James Suckling

"Bright deep crimson. Creamy texture. Obviously lots of work has gone into this. Very gentle extraction. Rewarding drink though just a suggestion of modern winemaking rather than overbearing vineyard influence. " - Jancis Robinson

"The 2018 Pédesclaux is the first vintage to include all four grape varieties planted in the vineyard, according to Emmanuel Cruse. It has a very focused, concentrated bouquet of blackberry, graphite, hints of tobacco and a slight granitic scent - très Pauillac. The palate is medium-bodied with silky tannin, impressive depth, gentle grip and a killer line of acidity. I adore the harmony and precision of this Pédesclaux, which is probably the best to date. Highly recommended. 13.3% alcohol." - Vinous

"An extroverted style, with bold plum and blackberry compote aromas and flavors, infused with anise accents and backed by an alluring finish of toasted vanilla, violet and mocha. On the showy side, but has enough latent drive to keep it honest. Drink now through 2030. 15,167 cases made." - Wine Spectator