Pichon Comtesse Reserve 2021 (750ML)

92-94 VM / 90-92 JD / 91 WS / 89-91 WA

The 2021 Réserve de la Comtesse is a seriously great wine in its peer group. Or any peer group. Rich and layered, with no hard edges and compelling balance, the 2021 opens beautifully in the glass. Savory accents run through a core of black cherry and plum fruit, with hints of gravel, spice and leather that develop later. This year's blend includes 14% reserve wine, but that is not especially evident. I don't think I have ever tasted a more refined Réserve de la Comtesse. Superb. - Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

The 2021 Pichon Comtesse Reserve should be outstanding, and for a second wine certainly offers terrific quality. A blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot that will spend 12 months in 40% new French oak, it has solid dark fruits (currants, darker cherries), notes of ripe tobacco and subtle cedar, medium body, a balanced, elegant mouthfeel, and outstanding length. - Jeb Dunnuck

Engaging, with a flurry of violet, alder and black tea notes leading off, followed by a solidly built core of black currant and sweet bay leaf elements. The finish reveals warm earth and cast iron details. A textbook Pauillac. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2026 through 2034. - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator

The 2021 Resèrve de la Comtesse offers up aromas of sweet berry fruit, blackcurrants, petals and classy new oak, followed by a medium to full-bodied, deep and impressively concentrated palate that's framed by lively acids and beautifully refined tannins. It's a blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot and 11% Petit Verdot, and Nicolas Glumineau tells me that some wine was sold off in bulk this year to guarantee the quality of the Resèreve. It's certainly among the best second wines of the vintage. - William Kelley, Wine Advocate