‘It is certainly still in a youthful phase, and the tannins are firm but with enough give to drink now, especially with sufficient aeration and when served alongside hearty food. The primary aromas are forthright and intense, reflecting the heat of the vintage, combining blackcurrant fruit with attractive leafy herbaceousness, while the finish is starting to display the graphite and dark-chocolate complexity that is a distinction of good left-bank red bordeaux. The 2018 is blended from 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot, then aged in barriques (35% new) for 12 to 15 months. Winemaking is overseen by Hubert de Boüard, who oversaw Ch Angélus before handing over to his daughter Stéphanie and now consults widely in Bordeaux, including at such prestigious châteaux as Chx Grand-Puy Ducasse and Meyney. His broad experience of Bordeaux is perhaps the reason why this wine is so satisfyingly archetypal – and justifies its exceptionnel status.’ I scored it 16.5+ with a drinking window until 2033. Richard Hemming MW – Jancis Robinson

"Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Cambon la Pelouse is scented of cedar, tar and earth with a core of warm plums and cassis with mocha and lavender hints. The palate is full-bodied, firm and laden with fruit, supported by grainy tannins and finishing long." Robert Parker 90-92/100