2008 Ch. la Conseillante, Pomerol

Situated next door to Petrus and Cheval Blanc this gave me more instant pleasure than both this year. Glorious, sexy, seductive; these were the words that sprang to mind when tasting 2008 Ch. la Conseillante. One of our 2008 favourite wines on the Right Bank, this just exudes Burgundian class, all held together with a rich Bordeaux core. With an opulent, beautifully perfumed nose of almost Ribena-like concentration, this has layers and layers of fruit and a powerful, chocolate finish carried by an excellent ball of fruit all wrapped up with grainy tannins that lasts across the palate and beyond.Château La Conseillante

Close in style and quality to the very good 2006. Has a bright, lively expression of fruit, mid-palate density and fine, fresh tannins. The 90% oak is well integrated. Drink 2016-2030.
(Decanter - Apr-2009)

Zesty nose. Fresh, fine nose. Subtle and juicy and really rather glorious. That’s my only criticism. Easy to like. Very sweet and engaging with good dynamism but just a hint of sawdust. Lots of oak! Very polished – though a little bit dry on the finish.
(Jancis Robinson MW - jancisrobinson.com - Apr 09)

The beautiful 2008 exhibits a dark plum/ruby/purple color as well as jammy red and black fruit, crushed rock and floral notes. If this were a Burgundy, one might think of it as a grand cru Musigny. With excellent texture, medium to full body and stunning purity as well as nobility, this fascinating Pomerol should drink well for 15-20 years.
This estate has long been known for its elegant, complex, racy, supple, delicious wines, but the 2008 is more massive, structured, and concentrated than usual. There is a lot going on in this richer, more tannic effort. No one will be disappointed, but purchasers should not expect a wine that will be drinkable upon release. A dense ruby/purple color as well as plenty of concentration, sweet, but elevated tannins, and a huge finish suggest this estate is moving in the direction of Gazin, Lafleur, and Trotanoy. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2030.
(Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - Apr-2009)

Blackberries and other black fruits on the nose. Full and compacted, with lots of ripe and silky tannins. Long and structured. Very pretty wine. 86 percent Merlot, 14 percent Cabernet Franc.
(James Suckling - Wine Spectator - Apr-2009)