Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 29/02/2012 A big-time sleeper in this vintage, this dense purple wine from Jean-Philippe Janoueix over-delivers for its humble pedigree. A blend of 86% Merlot and the rest mostly Cabernet Franc, it is a surprisingly big wine (over 14% alcohol) with notes of smoky barbecue, kirsch, blackberries, coffee and cassis. Luscious tannins, low acidity and a textured, multi-dimensional mouthfeel make for an impressive Bordeaux Superieur. Drink it over the next 3-5 years. One couldn't ask for a more serious owner than Jean-Philippe Janoueix, who has done such a terrific job at La Confession in St.-Emilion and La Croix St.-Georges in Pomerol. Tiny yields of 31 hectoliters per hectare as well as super attention to detail in both the vineyard and winemaking has resulted in a wine that is a final blend of 87% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot coming in at 14.1% alcohol. The wine is stunning, dense purple in color, with notes of chocolate, espresso roast, pain grille, blackberries, and cherries. It is a hedonistic mouthful of wine to drink over the next 4-5 years. (Tasted two times.) (89-91)