Decanter World Wine AwardsMédoc crus classés & Saint-Emilion 1er grands crus
Recommended wines
Chateau Figeac, 1er Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2006
Dense, lush, plummy nose with savoury, chocolatey, damson and coffee hints. Rich, sumptuous, fleshy, voluptuous, expressive and hedonistic style. This has ample tannin, pronounced acidity, abundant fruit and excellent length. Alc: 13.5%. Drink 2013-plus. (18.75 points)
Chateau Rauzan-Gassies, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2006
Perfumed, elegant and complex bouquet of red and black fruit, bitter chocolate and dark cherry. Lots of stuffing and concentration of flavour with good florality and natural ripeness. A well-made, polished wine. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2013-20. (18.5 points)
Chateau Leoville Poyferre, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2004
Deep crushed berry, perfumed mint, ripe blackcurrant, robust black cherry, mocha and stylish menthol oak bouquet. This has breadth and concentration with grippy, ripe tannins giving plenty of room for the fruit to sing. Still needs time. Alc: 13.5%. Drink: 2012-22. (18.5 points)
Chateau Pontet-Canet, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2006
Very deep and concentrated Cabernet fruit, spice and fragrant perfume. Densely structured on the palate with lots of sweet, ripe fruit, minerals and lovely tannin integration. Dense, long and interesting. Delicious. Alc: 13%. Drink 2013-26. (18.6 points) Drink: 2013-2026.
Chateau Beau-Sejour Becot, 1er Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2006
Very attractive, dark, scented cassis and cherry fruit, lean, mint, coffee and liquorice bouquet. Delicious - wonderful freshness and mineral intensity. So seductive, pure and very fine with an elegant and very long, powerful finish. Alc: 14%. Drink: 2015-2025. (18.63 points)
Chateau Cheval Blanc, 1er Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2006
Lush, smoky oak aroma laden with fruit - raspberry, loganberry and damson. Rich, suave and fleshy with a minerally, spicy intensity. Youthful and assertive. Wow - has some class! Alc: 13%. Drink: 2015-2025. (18.5 points)
Chateau Angelus, 1er Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2006
Concentrated aroma of coffee, mocha, plum, spice and oak. Fresh, full fruit with lively acidity and firm tannins. Silky texture and polished fruit with natural depth and richness. Lovely complexity. Alc: 14%. Drink: 2013-2025. (18.5 points)
Chateau Duhart Milon Rothschild, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2004
Earth, briary fruit, creme de cassis, oak, cedar and herb on the nose. Creamy and rich palate with excellent, juicy fruit in the middle, even some complexity. Has plenty of tannin despite the supple texture. Has vigour and grip. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2012-plus. (16.63 points)
Chateau Boyd Cantenac, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Charred wood, black cherry, herbaceous, dark fruit liqueur and floral perfume. Silky smooth on the mouth with good acidity and well-balanced tannins. Elegant wine with plenty of tobacco at the end. Very good. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2011-2018. (16.63 points)
£29-31 Fine & Rare Wines, London W10 (020 8960 1995), Tesco Wine by the Case (www.tesco.com/wine)
Chateau Brane-Cantenac, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Vegetal, spicy oak, Turkish Delight, red fruit perfume. Elegant balance with grainy tannin, fresh acidity, earthy, briary fruit and nice length. Supple and juicy. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2011-2017. (16.5 points)
Chateau Marquis de Terme, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Fragrant,light and delicate nose of red fruit and rubber. Sappy and bright palate with good elegant fruit, lots of perfume and enough tannins to give some grip. Enjoyable - showing good Margaux elegance and length. Alc: 12.5%. Drink: 2011-2017. (16.5 points)
Chateau Lynch-Bages, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2004
Sweet smoke, cigar-box, lifted mocha, vibrant red and black fruit aroma. Good depth, length and elegance. Juicy and harmonious, forward but no rush to drink. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2011-2017. (16.5 points)
Chateau Belgrave, Grand Cru Classe, Haut-Medoc 2004
Aromas of yeast and meat. Tannic wine though not without some charm and not four-square. Bright and open with good savoury fruit, it is drinking pretty well. Forward and delicious. Alc: 12.5%. Drink: 2013-plus. (16.5 points)
Chateau Haut-Batailley, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2006
High-toned briary fruit, vigorous oak, savoury and meaty aromas. Fresh attack on the palate - more luminous than the nose, with grip, structure and verve. Still tight and youthful with excellent potential. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2015-plus. (16.67 points)
Chateau Dauzac, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Stylish plum schnapps and blackcurrant fragrance. Fine, elegant and fragrant fruit on the palate, showing good purity and vineyard origin. Ripe tannins support the concentrated fruit. Has weight and grandeur. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2012-2017. (16.63 points)
£33-36 All About Wine (07876 214 144), Bibendum, London NW1 (020 7449 4120)
Chateau Calon-Segur, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Estephe 2004
Sweet, juicy blackcurrant and graphite on the nose - classic Saint-Estephe! The fruit is creamy yet leafy - classic in the best sense of the word. It has tannic grip and plenty of lift and spice. Built to last. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2014-plus. (16.67 points)
Chateau Cantemerle, Grand Cru Classe, Haut-Medoc 2006
Fresh, lifted and stylish nose of zest, cedar, blackberry, cherry, sweet blue fruit. Fresh, attractively straightforward wine with a buttery, creamy texture and very silky tannins. The finish s good - no expense spared - but it's all very serious. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2012-plus. (16.67 points)
Chateau Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2004
Fine fragrant and floral fruit, cedar and spice on the nose. All elegance and depth with a suave texture, although has firm, ripe underlying tannins. Complex, vigorous and spicy with ample energy and zest. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2012-2020. (17.63 points)
Chateau d'Issan, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Good concentrated aroma of black fruit, char, animal, meat and floral notes. Silky and concentrated palate with ripe tannins, good complexity to come and quite earthy ripeness. Harmonious and long. Alc: 12.5%. Drink: 2012-2017. (16.63 points)
Chateau Kirwan, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Firm blackcurrant, oak and liquorice aroma - very rich for Margaux. Quite rich and meaty/fleshy fruit but also good depth and fragrance. Oak is still evident but it will be very good. Plenty of life in it. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2012-2020. (16.75 points)
Chateau Lafon-Rochet, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Estephe 2006
A rich, lifted nose of plum, black cherry, liquorice spice, mineral and menthol. Juicy wine with plenty of upfront fruit which is spicy and tangy. Chewy tannins and a big aromatic finish. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2013-plus. (16.67 points)
Chateau Branaire-Ducru, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2006
Cassis, black cherry, menthol, clove and savoury bouquet. Well-made, modern style with good grip and bite. Sleek with a powerful finish. Will be very good. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2014-plus. (17.33 points) (17.33 points)
Chateau d'Issan, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2006
Lifted, smoky, perfumed, cedary Medoc nose. Very good balance of well-extracted fruit and ripe tannins leading to a smooth finish. Understated wine where the sweet fruit comes in on the finish. Good length and evolving interest. Alc: 12.5%. Drink: 2013-2020. (16.67 points)
Chateau Leoville Poyferre, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2006
Deep, dark, juicy fruit. spice and smoke on the nose. Fine purity of expression and good depth of fruit with integrated tannin and good acidity and balance. Elegant. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2013-2020. (16.67 points)
Chateau Cos d'Estournel, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Estephe 2006
Lean, spicy, savoury, oaky, dark berry and tobacco leaf bouquet. Firm but well put together. Lush, suave, juicy and straightforward with lots of fruit and complexity. Alc: 13.5%. Drink: 2015-plus. (17 points)
Chateau la Tour Carnet, Grand Cru Classe, Haut-Medoc 2006
Ripe aroma of oak, meat and black cherry. Rich, suave and quite concentrated with a nice, creamy mouthfeel and firm tannins giving some grip. Has some vigour, drive and a minty finish. Very promising. Alc: 13.5%. Drink: 2011-plus. (16.67 points)
Chateau Saint-Pierre, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2006
Precise, exuberant and flamboyantly toasty nose with blackcurrant. cherry and tar. Very ripe and aromatic, more rustic than some. Balanced by firm tannins and plenty of spice and grip, it is lifted, complex and lively. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2014-plus. (16.67 points)
Chateau Durfort-Vivens, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2006
Fine aromatic nose of cedar, coffee, fruit compote laced with a herbal note. Nicely fine tannins and a nice core of sweet yet fresh fruit. Vigorous and confident red with a lovely balance. Has a lot of finesse and concentration. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2014-plus. (17.17 points)
Chateau Lagrange, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2006
Lush, spicy, vibrant nose of meat, graphite, cherry, blackcurrant, oak and hedgerow. Rich, silky, polished effort - creamy fruit, firm tannins and a long, expressive finish. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2015-plus. (17.5 points)
Chateau Langoa Barton, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2004
Deep, elegant Cabernet fragrance of dark fruit, pretty hedgerow and nice perfume. Warmth, breadth and depth of black fruit - fresh acidity breaks up the concentration. Silky and polished with lots of tannin. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2011-2020. (17.25 points)
Chateau Lafon-Rochet, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Estephe 2004
Good, fragrant Cabernet lift and roasted meat bouquet. Silky, fresh and beautifully balanced palate with very good firmness and length. Excellent concentration of pure, fresh fruit. Lovely. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2013-2020. (16.75 points)
Chateau Leoville Barton, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2004
Good concentration and ripe fruit on the nose offering notes of menthol, hedgerow, dense oak and herbs. Broad, lush, concentrated and packed with fruit. Has very good vineyard origins, depth and precision. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2012-2022. (17.5 points)
Chateau Beychevelle, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2006
Sweet, ripe nose of game, cedar, toast - high toned, has class! Layers of finesse. The tannins are still firm but there is lovely sticky fruit in the middle. Has lift and poise - a classic, delightful, persistent Saint-Julien. Alc: 13% Drink: 2015-plus. (17.5 points)
Chateau Lynch-Bages, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2006
Black fruit, spice, cedar, fragrant Cabernet florality and animal aromas. Good, broad yet precise flavours with natural acidity, elegance and delicious balance. Complex. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2015-2027. (17.5 points)
Chateau Prieure-Lichine, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2006
Vigorous, spicy, cedary nose with well-judged oak, black fruit, liquorice, chocolate and floral perfume. Very sleek and supple wine with everything in the right place. Poised, with a fine attack, silky texture and beautiful balance. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2013-plus. (17.67 points)
Chateau Lagrange, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2004
Complex and defined briary fruit, herbs, spice and wood aroma. Very creamy and beautifully managed tannins with real bite in the middle. Quite lively, persistent fruit and a silky texture. Very fine. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2012-2018. (16.88 points)
Chateau Rauzan-Segla, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2006
Sweet polish, confected red fruit, lifted blackcurrant and char on the nose. Sleek, quite concentrated, supple and relatively forward with moderate tannins and acidity. Rich, balanced and confident wine. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2012-plus. (17 points)
Chateau Gruaud-Larose, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2004
Elegant Cabernet bouquet of smoke, dark fruit, cedar and pretty top notes. Good, broad, quite earthy flavours with both power and elegance. Has a beautiful texture, good acidity and good integration of tannin. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2011-2018. (17 points)
Chateau d'Armailhac, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2006
Classic aromas of graphite, cassis, spice, cherries, espresso and cedar. Sleek, suave attack with fine-grained tannins. Fine acidity, ample grip, long and aromatic. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2013-plus. (16.83 points)
Chateau Montrose, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Estephe 2004
Voluptuous bouquet of blackcurrant, blackberry, coffee, cloves and tar. Bright. complex and attractive wine with firm tannins giving grip. This has swagger, opulence and power; very appetising. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2013-plus. (17 points)
Chateau Pontet-Canet, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2004
A classic, pretty nose of floral cassis, gentle wood spice, lush black fruit, chocolate, oak and spice. Lush, creamy, full bodied and tannic, with lots of room for the fruit. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2013-2025. (17.25 points)
Chateau Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2006
Attractive perfume of spicy cassis, lavish oak, cocoa and savoury complexity. Rich, plump, complex, full bodied and very concentrated with powerful tannins. Well structured with bags of life ahead of it. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2016-plus. (17 points)
Chateau Pichon-Longueville-Baron, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2006
Rich blackcurrant, blackberry, sweet oak, chocolate, herbs and floral perfume. Vibrant, broad, rich and fleshy - a polished effort. Weighty and tannic, more power than finesse but with depth and intensity. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2015-plus. (17 points)
Chateau Leoville Barton, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2006
Complex, dark spice, charred new oak, chocolate and leafy cassis bouquet. Sleek and integrated with rich tannin, milk chocolate and tobacco. Classic. Really enjoyable. Alc: 12.5% Drink: 2015-plus. (18 points)
Chateau Palmer, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2006
Delicate, lifted, savoury, tart red fruit, blackberry, cherry and oak bouquet. With zest and charm, it is delicate but not frail. Elegant and harmonious with fine acidity, fine-grained tannins and a lovely, confident finish. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2013-plus. (17.67 points)
Chateau Marquis d’Alesme-Becker, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2006
Smoky dark fruit, toast, vanilla and perfumed aroma. Ripe, full bodied and open, with a minerally complexity and an expressively fine, generous finish. Very silky in texture and well knit - quite a weighty Margaux. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2015-plus. (18 points)
Chateau la Tour Carnet, Grand Cru Classe, Haut-Medoc 2004
A nice fragrant Cabernet lift with meat and spice perfume. Good fruity length, good concentration and moderate complexity. Stylish and elegant - a very good wine for 2004. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2011-2018. (17 points)
Chateau Pichon-Longueville-Baron, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2004
Fine, concentrated aroma of floral blue fruit, flamboyant oak, blackcurrant, herb and lead pencil. Grippy and rich with some muscle behind it. A sensuous, complex, spicy and textured red which is fresh and accessible. Alc: 13.5%. Drink: 2012-2018. (17 points)
Chateau Pavie-Macquin, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2004
Sumptuous plumcake, toast, chocolate and high-toned fragrance. This is coming around - really delicious sweet, sappy fruit, with plenty of depth and softness. Enjoyable. Alc: 14%. Drink: 2011-plus. (17 points)
£36-£42 Farr Vintners, London SW8 (020 7821 2000), Wilkinson Vintners, London N19 (020 7272 1982)
Chateau Pavie-Macquin, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2006
Lovely, fragrant, deep expression of fresh, cassis fruit and herbaceous hints. Really good flavour and length with a lovely fragrance and savoury character. A really fine wine which is light, elegant and balanced. Alc: 14%. Drink: 2013-2025. (17.17 points)
Chateau Pavie, 1er Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2004
Fruitcake, plums, graphite, medicinal oak and tarry black fruit bouquet. Someone has spent a few quid polishing this! Sleek and svelte with tannic support. Chocolatey, spicy, peppery and reticent now. Needs time. Alc: 14%. Drink: 2015-plus. (17 points)
Chateau Beau-Sejour Becot, 1er Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2004
Subdued oak, black fruit, tar, meat, game and savoury aromas. Dense, concentrated and very good. A graceful rather than powerful style that has density, grip and some freshness. Has a very long finish. Alc: 14%. Drink: 2013-plus. (17.33 points)
Chateau Trottevieille, 1er Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2006
Firm, spicy, plummy, savoury, red fruit perfume. Lean and elegant style with fine-grained, supple tannins and good concentration. Has vigour, lift and finesse. The finish is lovely - very aromatic. Alc: 13.5%. Drink: 2014-2025. (17.13 points)
Chateau Haut-Bages-Liberal, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2004
Nice concentration of black fruit, earth, char, sweet liqueur and leaf on the nose. Super-ripe, concentrated, majestic and almost impenetrable. Built to last. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2013-2020. (16.88 points)
Chateau La Gaffeliere, 1er Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2006
Rich, seductive and opulent bouquet of plum, black cherry, spice and lanolin. Very rich, broad and succulent wine with impressive weight of fruit and integrated tannin. Concentrated and virile. Alc: 13.5%. Drink: 2014-2020. (16.75 points)
Clos Fourtet, 1er Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2004
Rich aromas of smoke, yeast, stone fruit, dried fruit and mulch. Four-square wine which has a way to go to resolve all the matter, but looking good. Alc: 13.5%. Drink: 2012-plus. (16.67 points)
Chateau Troplong-Mondot, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2006
Perfumed, enticing nose of minerals, sweet, cassis fruit, cocoa and coffee. Savoury palate, with firm structure and moderate weight. Shows good vineyard expression with a savoury, slightly meaty finish. Alc: 14%. Drink: 2012-2020. (16.67 points)
Chateau Pavie, 1er Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2006
Lush but powerful perfume of plum, chocolate, spicy blue fruit and violets. Very rich, chewy, voluptuous, soft and intense - will take a long time to come round. Has concentration, grip and fine depth of fruit. Alc: 14%. Drink: 2015-plus. (17.5 points)
Chateau Figeac, 1er Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2004
Rich and powerful nose with sweet oak, lush plum, sweet red and black cherry fruit. Rich and suave but less massive than the nose suggested Supple, spicy and generous, loose-knit style but good evolvement. Alc: 13%. Drink: 2013-plus. (16.5 points)
Chateau Belgrave, Grand Cru Classe, Haut-Medoc 2006
Rustic, animal, meaty and sweet cassis on the nose - good Cabernet fruit. Firm but bright palate with lots of vibrant black fruit, ripe acidity and nice integration. Alc: 13%. Drink 2011-16. (15.83 points)
Chateau Ferriere, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Good vineyard depth, lush blackberry, light oak, red fruit, coffee and toast on the nose. Good depth of fruit and complexity - a bit green but this will balance out. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-17. (15.88 points)
Chateau du Tertre, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Sweet fruit, game, liqueur, port, cheese, leather, meat and spice aroma. Quite rich, svelte wine with a sweet flavour. Moderate acidity balances the light tannins. Alc: 13%. Drink 2011-15. (15.88 points)
Chateau Brane-Cantenac, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2006
Stylish violet, leaf, blackcurrant and cedar aromas. Rich and very meaty style which is well knit and made. Perky with charm and vivacity. Alc: 13%. Drink 2014-plus. (15.83 points)
Chateau Desmirail, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2006
Herbs, stewed/cooked fruit and oak on the nose. Sleek and reasonably concentrated with grippy tannins. Very expressive with a fine, long length. Alc: 13%. Drink 2014-plus. (15.83 points)
Chateau Talbot, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2006
Quite good depth of stewed fruit, smoke and spicy complexity on the nose. Lovely palate - with elegant, rich, red fruit. Youthful but quite flavourful. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-18. (16 points)
Chateau Beausejour (Duffau-Lagarrosse), 1er Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2006
Herbaceous, red cherry fruit, game, stewed Merlot character and briny aroma. Savoury, earthy with integrated fine tannin and a sweet blackcurrant fruit core. Alc: 14%. Drink 2013-18. (15.5 points)
Chateau Grand-Puy-Ducasse, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2006
High-toned aroma of blackcurrant jam, cedar, herbs and Ribena. Concentrated, crunchy fruit, and firm, dusty tannins but nicely put together. Alc: 13%. Drink 2016-plus. (15.67 points)
Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2006
Sweet, red fruit, smoke, cedar and elegant fragrance. Lovely sweet and savoury fruit palate, very fine tannin, good expression and great length. Good future. Alc: 13%. Drink 2013-20. (16 points)
£35-55 widely available
Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2004
Fragrant Cabernet fruit aroma of herb, oak, cedar, spice and red fruit. Silky, elegant palate; the fruit is softening though the tannins are very much present. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-16. (16 points)
£30-35 widely available
Chateau Lascombes, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Rich, concentrated bouquet of blackcurrant, toasty wood, leaf, mocha, cigar box and smoke. Broad, concentrated fruit - really rich for 2004. Robust and spicy. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-18. (16 points)
Chateau d'Armailhac, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2004
Ripe blackcurrant, cedar, plum liqueur, clove, spice, cinnamon and herb bouquet. Ripe for the vintage and fine solid wine with good depth. On the heavier side. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-17. (16 points)
Chateau Batailley, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2006
Dark fruit, chocolate, lead pencil, spice, coffee and cassis nose. Super smooth and stylishly straightforward palate with good freshness and balance. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-18. (16 points)
Chateau Palmer, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Earth, charred wood, vegetal, black cherry and red fruit perfume. Elegant and perfumed palate with a seamless texture and concentrated, big, ripe tannins. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-18. (16.13 points)
Chateau Prieure-Lichine, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Deep earth, red and black fruit, spice, green pepper and mocha on the nose. Supple, easygoing wine with modest acidity and ripe tannin. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-17. (16 points)
Chateau Rauzan-Gassies, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Evolved bouquet of earth, leaf, spice and cherry. Better fruit on the palate than the nose, showing natural ripeness and Margaux elegance. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-17. (16.13 points)
Chateau Gruaud Larose, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2006
Rustic nose of tea, dark fruit, kirsch, tobacco and cocoa. Fantastic composure, good Cabernet fruit and complexity. Lovely tannin integration and great length. Alc: 12.5%. Drink 2013-18. (16.17 points)
Chateau Cantenac-Brown, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2006
Tar, soot, earth, leather, blackcurrant confit and herb aromas. The vineyard fruit is there and so is the Margaux fragrance. Lots of pleasure here. Alc: 13%. Drink 2013-20. (16.17 points)
Chateau Lynch-Moussas, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2006
Sweet, red cherry fruit, cedar and spice on the nose - quite primary. Natural depth of elegant, fat sweet fruit and tannins blended in. Very attractive wine. Alc: 13%. Drink 2013-22. (16.33 points)
Chateau Boyd Cantenac, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2006
Perfumed, charming and elegant floral aroma of meat, smoky bacon and good Cabernet fruit. Quite forward style which is easy to like and drink. Delicious now. Alc: 13%. Drink 2011-17. (16.17 points)
Chateau la Lagune, Grand Cru Classe, Haut-Medoc 2004
Dense cedar, meat, black fruit, graphite and leafy blackberry bouquet. Very appealing and forward, it is fresh and lively. Good acidity and length. Alc: 13%. Drink 2011. (16.17 points)
Chateau Calon-Segur, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Estephe 2006
Rather closed on the nose with black, tarry fruit - nice ripeness for 2006. Structured, silky palate, lovely freshness and dense, black fruit under firm tannins. A keeper. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-18. (16.17 points)
Chateau Lascombes, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2006
Meat, tobacco, stewed fruit and savoury tones on the nose. Supple, plump and juicy palate. Spicy, chocolatey, dense and concentrated with firm, chunky tannins. Alc: 13.5%. Drink 2012-plus. (16.17 points)
Chateau Malescot-Saint-Exupery, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Concentrated earth, red fruit and light smoke bouquet. Elegant red fruit palate with ample tannic grip and a long finish. Quite forward but will last. Alc: 13.5%. Drink 2011-17. (16.25 points)
Chateau Clerc Milon, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2004
Earth, red fruit, leaf, lush blackcurrant, cocoa and oak on the nose. Rich, splendid sweet fruit with a green edge and grainy tannins. Complete and harmonious. Alc: 13%. Drink 2013-16. (16.13 points)
Chateau Grand-Puy-Ducasse, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2004
Elegant, charming and lifted; leafy, blackberry bouquet. Supple, iuicy and concentrated, with integrated tannins. Approachable wine with potential. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-17. (16.25 points)
Chateau Clerc Milon, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2006
Stylish, lush and vibrant dense oak and black fruit aroma. Rich, juicy and plump palate; this is a big fleshy style with lavish fruit and super-ripe tannins. Alc: 13%. Drink 2013-plus. (16.33 points)
Chateau Giscours, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Rich, robust earth, meat, smoke, cedar, mocha and ample oak aroma. Good, zippy, fresh fruit with concentration and a luxurious, velvety style. Big, ripe tannins. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-16. (16.25 points)
Chateau Marquis de Terme, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2006
Good depth of ripe, quite fragrant dark fruit and boiled sweets. Vibrant and juicy with good purity of flavour, depth and fragrance. More elegance than power. Alc: 12.5%. Drink 2012-20. (16.33 points)
£23-33 Fine & Rare Wines, London W10 (020 8960 1995), Millesima (0800 917 0352), www.wine-source.com
Chateau Talbot, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2004
Vibrant smoke, cedar, sumptuous fruit, oak, herb and cream on the nose. A sexy wine offering expression and balance. Has a bright, sappy finish. Alc: 13%. Drink 2011-16. (16.375 points)
Chateau Rauzan-Segla, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Red berry, earth, hedgerow, lifted cedar, cherry, spice and floral perfume. Fresh, delicate vineyard fruit with good depth, vigour and finesse. Has typicity and charm. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-17. (16.38 points)
Chateau Desmirail, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Attractive, fragrant red fruit, herbs, leaf, herbaceous and floral scent. Quite rich, juicy and forward, showing Margaux elegance and complexity already. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-16. (16.25 points)
£19-24 Fine & Rare Wines, London W10 (020 8960 1995), Goedhuis, London SW8 (020 7793 7900)
Chateau Beychevelle, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2004
Toasty oak, herbs, red fruit and cedar nose. Rich, rounded and concentrated. Good depth of sappy fruit, still a touch green. slightly earthy but classic Saint-Julien. Alc: 13%. Drink 2011-20. (16.38 points)
Clos Fourtet, 1er Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2006
Fragrant lift from Cabernet Franc with a herbaceous red cherry and black fruit nose. Good clarity and crisp. ripe fruit. Solid. good and nicely balanced. Alc: 13.5%. Drink 2012-18. (16.33 points)
Chateau Canon, 1er Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2006
Very vegetal. herbal. ripe red fruit, meat and fine, fragrant aromas. Firm and crisp palate with sweet fruit on entry. Well-integrated tannins. good purity and depth. Alc: 14%. Drink 2012-18. (16.17 points)
Chateau Durfort-Vivens, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Dense, charred oak, concentrated dark fruit and liquorice. Rich glycerol and dark fruit with good biting acidity and furry tannins. Alc: 12.5%. Drink 2011-17. (15.63 points)
Chateau Montrose, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Estephe 2006
Quite good Cabernet fruit bouquet with some florality. Lovely richness of flavour on the palate with chalky tannins. Hugely appealing. Good future. Alc: 12.5%. Drink 2012-18. (15.67 points)
Chateau Croizet-Bages, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2004
Good, fresh aroma of herb and cedar herbaceousness. Quite elegant palate with good clean fruit. Still a bit tannic but shows quite good clarity and depth. Alc: 12.5%. Drink 2011-17. (15.63 points)
£20.50-26.10 Antique Wine Company, London (020 7359 1109), Wine Store, Staffs (01543 481 612)
Chateau Langoa Barton, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2006
Soap, crunchy red and black Cabernet fruit. Silky palate with good depth and still lots of firm tannins, but proper depth is there. Very nice, rich and savoury. Alc: 12.5%. Drink 2014-22. (15.67 points)
£29-50 widely available
Chateau Pouget, Grand Cru Classe, Margaux 2004
Good, fragrant floral red fruit, charred oak, spice, mint and coffee. An attractive wine with good Margaux elegance. Very correct and finishes nicely. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-18. (15.63 points)
n/a UK www.chateau-pouget.com
Chateau Pedesclaux, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2004
Vegetal, dried fruit, leafy, herbaceous, lead pencil and cedar spice bouquet. Easy-going, fluidly sweet red fruit. It has light tannins and acidity. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-18. (15.63 points)
Chateau Branaire-Ducru, Grand Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 2004
Fine Cabernet aroma of simple red fruit and dark fruit, spice and tobacco. Silky, ripe, broad fruit, beautiful balance, grainy tannic finish. Quite good. Alc: 13%. DRink 2011-15. (15.5 points)
Chateau Duhart Milon Rothschild, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2006
Complex cedar, sous-bois and stewed jammy fruit on the nose. Delicious blend of sweetness of supple fruit and savoury mineral structure of fine tannin. Alc: 12.5%. Drink 2012-18. (15.5 points)
Chateau Lynch-Moussas, Grand Cru Classe, Pauillac 2004
Good red fruit and Cabernet fragrance. Very attractive, lifted style with wild violet notes and femininity for Pauillac. Lively despite the density but still a bit chewy. Alc: 13%. Drink 2012-20. (15.5 points)
