An inky/purple color is followed by notes of Asian plum sauce, forest floor, creme de cassis, black raspberries and a floral component that is unusual for a Margaux. A wine of exceptional intensity and purity with a full-bodied, sumptuous texture, lots of fresh vibrancy and excellent definition, this beautiful 2009 exhibits high but sweet tannin. It is more sexy than the 2005 was at a similar age, although their level of extract and concentration is relatively equal. Something about the 2009 reminds me of a Margaux version of St.-Julien's Leoville Poyferre ... if that makes any sense. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040.

Robert Parker (Wine Advocate #199, Feb 2012)

An inky/purple color is followed by notes of Asian plum sauce, forest floor, creme de cassis, black raspberries and a floral component that is unusual for a Margaux. A wine of exceptional intensity and purity with a full-bodied, sumptuous texture, lots of fresh vibrancy and excellent definition, this beautiful 2009 exhibits high but sweet tannin. It is more sexy than the 2005 was at a similar age, although their level of extract and concentration is relatively equal. Something about the 2009 reminds me of a Margaux version of St.-Julien's Leoville Poyferre ... if that makes any sense. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040. This is another fabulous effort from an estate that has been doing extraordinary work over the last 10-15 years. I enjoyed the 2009 as much as the 2005, perhaps even slightly more because while it has structure, the tannins are less aggressive and there is more succulence, flesh and texture in the 2009.

Served blind at the Southwold 2009 tasting. The Malescot-St-Exupery '09 is unruly at first, but it settles down nicely to become a well behaved pupil: boysenberry, lifted cassis and violet aromas all very clean and well defined, the oak subtly enmeshed. The palate is medium-bodied with a succulent entry. Lovely ripe, filigree tannins and a lovely elegant caressing finish make this an excellent Margaux. Tasted January 2013.

– eRobertParker.com, Jul 2013

Tasted blind. Mid crimson. Just the right side of volatile but very winning and opulent. More 2009 than Margaux. A little dry and chewy for the moment. Massive volume and finish. (JR)