"Cloves, black pepper, damson, oak swirl and vanilla bean, definitely a more complex and confident nose than many - and the profusion of aromatics adds layers to the wine but doesn't overpower. As the wine opens in the glass, you get attractive raspberry and cassis notes, and an uplift or crushed mint freshness held together with fine tannins. Far from a blockbuster year in St-Julien but this is one of the best; impressive En Primeur and moving up a notch at this point." 

"From an estate owned by the same family as Chateau Gloria, the inky hued 2017 Chateau Saint-Pierre (Saint-Julien) is a big, full-bodied, impressive 2017 that has subtle oak as well as lots of cassis, white flowers, burning embers, and charcoal aromas. I love its texture, it has ripe tannins, and it’s just a balanced, complete Saint-Julien that will evolve for 20-25 years. This cuvee is 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc, aged in 50% new oak." 

"Attractive, ripe red and dark berries here with spicy oak. Nicely played. The palate has deep, fleshy blueberries and rich plums and a wealth of supple, pliable tannin. Drink or hold."