2013 Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou La Croix Saint-Julien [V91-94][WS90-93][JS91-92]

Producer: Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou 
Region: Saint Julien, Bordeaux, France 
Blend: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot 
Year: 2013 

Vinous, 91-94 Points 

"The 2013 Ducru-Beaucaillou is a drop-dead gorgeous beauty. Black cherry, plum, smoke, tobacco and scorched earth blossom on the palate in a rich, resonant wine endowed with terrific depth and intensity for the year. The 2013 is delicate, sophisticated and polished to the core. A blast of red and blue tone fruits linger on the finish. The 2013 is aging in 100% new oak, all of which it has handled impeccably. At press time, Bruno Borie plans to stick to his regime of 18 months in barrel. Readers will find more obvious wines in 2013, but few that speak to this degree of pure finesse." 

Wine Spectator, 90-93 Points 

"Displays solid stuffing for the vintage, with steeped plum, blackberry and black currant fruit lined with singed mesquite, black tea and cinnamon notes. Delivers lots of range and ample toast through the finish, revealing a prominent woody side today, balanced by ample flesh. An impressive effort for the vintage. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Tasted non-blind." 

James Suckling, 91-92 Points 

"A new traditional styled wine with a texture that spreads across the palate with strawberry, light citrus and mineral character. Harmonious and sexy. Medium and fine. Reminds me of the excellent 1971."