Grand Puy Lacoste 2021 (750ML)

94-96 VM / 95 DE / 95 JS / 94 WA / 93 JA / 92 WS

The 2021 Grand-Puy-Lacoste is fabulous. Bright and punchy, with terrific aromatic presence, the 2021 is a terrific example of the modern classicism of the year at its best. It's the sort of wine that needs years or maybe even decades to truly blossom, and yet all the requisites are there for that to happen. There is something about Grand-Puy-Lacoste that is absolutely striking in 2021. I can't wait to taste it from bottle. Tasted two times. - Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

A superb GPL this year with one the highest percentages of Cabernet in the blend. Rose hawthorn notes on the nose - really nuanced. A little bit more closed on the palate in terms of overt acidity and fruit but this has such a beautiful texture, silky smooth with fine tannins that are persistent and mouthfilling but very elegant too, they frame the ripe fruit and mineral flavours - lots of bitter black chocolate and liquorice on this as well as salinity too. This has a much more subtle power than many others - a tense core, tightly wrapped but presenting a lovely juicy fragrant cherry flavour with terroir markers in the liquorice and lick of wet stone and the gorgeous Cabernet eucalyptus on show. So much potential - this will be excellent. I love it! Once it comes around it will have a very long life indeed. Ageing 75% new barrels. 55% grand vin.Drinking Window 2026 - 2045 _ GH, Decanter

A refined, classic Pauillac with cassis, pencil shavings, ash and cherries. Juicy and really fine on the palate with silky tannins unwound into a layered, long finish. A refined, elegant interpretation that does not fall short on intensity. Real finesse here. Already delicious, but can hold, too. - James Suckling

The 2021 Grand-Puy-Lacoste is one of the vintage's successes, wafting from the glass with aromas of cassis and raspberries mingled with notions of violets, rose petals, pencil shavings and cigar wrapper. Medium to full-bodied, with a deep, layered core of pure fruit framed by ripe acids and sweet tannins, its suave, charming profile means that it will offer a broad drinking window. A slightly lower percentage of new oak, with lighter toasts, is reflected in better barrel integration out of the gates. -William Kelley, Wine Advocate

Traditional and clasic Pauillac character, a little more old school than usual, certainly than the last few years. Plum, cassis, cocoa bean and liqourice keep things firm, with straight-laced tannins tight and pulled in. Will soften further over ageing, and no question that this is delivering appellation typicity. Tasted twice. 75% new oak, harvest September 24 to October 8. - Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux

Pure and fresh, with a mix of damson plum and red cherry notes laced with sandalwood, red tea and sanguine accents. Shows a lively savory streak, which adds energy to this relatively understated style. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Drink now through 2035. 10,000 cases made. - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator