[62CS/32M/6PV] Closed, mineral nose; very nicely balanced, finely tannic, fresh middleweight St Julien; long and refined and sweet cored to taste, with excellent persistence; classy claret, complete and with great charm. Restrained proportions, a fine, almost delicate structure but absolutely no weakness. Another example from this year of perfect beverage claret, and also a good illustration of the year beautifully managed. 2020-30+ [M.Schuster, Bordeaux Mar/Apr 2012]

The Chateau Lagrange 2011 is a blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot and 6% Petit Verdot (the highest percentage of the latter since 2007.) In 2011, there were just four treatments in the vineyard compared to 12 in 2000. It has a deep purple colour. It has a very pure bouquet with blackberry, cassis, limestone and a touch of Margaux-like violets. It certainly has fine delineation. The palate is pure with silky smooth tannins, fine acidity and an almost Burgundy-like texture. This is a very accomplished Lagrange although I would like to see more personality. It shows good weight on the tensile finish however and is an accomplished Saint Julien. Tasted April 2012.

Purple-tinged ruby. Expressive aromas of redcurrant, black cherry, violet, graphite and spice. Lovely texture and vinosity to the saline, soil-driven dark berry and mineral flavors. Conveys a tactile impression of freshness and very precise extraction, finishing with good sappy intensity. Although this Saint-Julien could use a little more fruit concentration, it really is a lovely, balanced wine. A very good Lagrange in a difficult year.

Supple, with a nice creamy feel to the plum, fig and blackberry flavors. A light stony edge lends some additional length and definition on the finish.—J.M.

Slightly pinched and compact, the 2011 Lagrange exhibits a healthy dark ruby/plum color as well as notes of vanillin, black cherries and red fruits, but it is somewhat one-dimensional and straightforward. Solidly made, but not as expressive as some of its peers, it will benefit from 1-3 years of bottle age, and should keep for 10-12 thereafter.

Drink 2018-2028 Gentle, dark, small-berried fruit, blackberry more than cassis. Hint of cedar. Much more cedary on the palate. Taut and firm but not dry. Embryonic rather than dry tannins. Long, fresh, juicy finish. (JH)

Dark cherry. Dark fruit and a touch floral. Juicy but firm and chalky-fine tannins. Tangy and spiced. Harmonious and quite open. (JH)