Vinous - Antonio Galloni (87-89)

The 2021 Montviel is a stylish, mid-weight Pomerol. Bright red-toned fruit, mint, blood orange and a kick of white pepper are all laced together in an attractive wine that conveys the energy of the vintage.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (87-89)

The 2021 Montviel is a stylish, mid-weight Pomerol. Bright red-toned fruit, mint, blood orange and a kick of white pepper are all laced together in an attractive wine that conveys the energy of the vintage.

Embodying the prestige of Southwest France's winemaking, the Moulinet-Lasserre 2017 captivates both the palate and the eye. Handcrafted by Domaine de Moulinet-Lasserre, this elegant vintage boasts of an idyllic blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Born from meticulously tended vineyards located in the heart of the Côtes de Bergerac AOC, it draws a unique mineral resonance and rich fruitiness from the clay-limestone terroir.

Critical to the wine's distinct palette is the wise winemaking process, entailing regulated temperature fermentation and careful maturation in French oak barrels for 18 months. A beautiful dark ruby in colour, with complex aromas of black fruits, spicy notes and a hint of vanilla, the Moulinet-Lasserre 2017 embodies a multilayered presentation that tantalises the senses. On the palate, the wine shows a rigorous structure with fine tannins, presenting a long, elegant finish. This vintage is the exemplification of Domaine de Moulinet-Lasserre's commitment to quality and tradition.

Regarded as a notable testament to fine French winemaking, Moulinet-Lasserre 2018 exemplifies a rich heritage stemming from the distinguished appellation of Côtes de Castillon, Bordeaux. This vintage is the result of meticulous viticulture, hand-harvesting and mindful vinification process, affirming Moulinet-Lasserre's prestige.

Marking an exceptional year, the Moulinet-Lasserre 2018 decants an unblemished balance of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, showcasing beautiful dark fruit aromas and a refined palate, reflecting the calcareous soils that characterise their vineyards. Structured yet subtle tannins indicate promising ageing potential. It bears the distinctive imprint of its creators, the Thienpont family, who remains committed to producing limited quantity, superior wines.

As a fine wine connoisseur, indulge in the Moulinet-Lasserre 2018’s intense, expressive character and complex, lush layers. It remains an exquisite portrayal of its region and a substantial addition to any wine enthusiast's collection.

Please enjoy the Moulinet-Lasserre 2018 responsibly.

Wine Spectator (93)

Very grapey on the nose, with mineral, tarragon and fresh flowers. Full-bodied, with very well-integrated tannins and a light vanilla, berry and milk chocolate aftertaste. Subtle and balanced. The best Nenin in years. Best after 2012. -JS

Wine Spectator (92-95)

Superfleshy but very direct, with long, racy raspberry ganache and red currant notes. Almost flashy, but stays focused through the long finish. Tasted non-blind. Score range: 92-95

Vinous - Neal Martin (93)

The 2017 Nénin only comes from the plateau as frost devastated the lower reaches. It has a well-defined bouquet, nicely focused with blackberry, briary and crushed stone aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, very refined, not as deep or as opulent as the previous vintage but chiseled and very focused on the peppery finish. Very fine, a Nénin that does not show off like the 2018 because (whisper it quietly), this is better.

James Suckling (96-97)

This is a special wine with unique black-cherry character and hints of hazelnuts. Full bodied, tight and totally melted together with the firm and ultra-fine tannins Extremely long.

Jeb Dunnuck (96)

The 2019 Château Nenin is truly fantastic, and my money is on it being the finest vintage to date for this estate. Based on 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc brought up in just 45% new French oak, it offers a pure, medium-bodied, ethereal style carrying gorgeous red and black fruits, spring flowers, damp earth, and chocolate aromas and flavors. It's not a blockbuster and is all about purity, finesse, and elegance, yet it still brings beautiful richness and length. This gorgeous, seamless 2019 will drink well for 20-25 years.

James Suckling (97-98)

This is from only the old vines in the clay and gravel soils on the plateau. Really fantastic. It’s medium-to full-bodied and the tannins just roll off the palate at the end. Dark fruit and spices. So long. One of the best modern wines from here? 68% merlot and 32% cabernet franc.

James Suckling (93-94)

Very fine tannins with a medium body and a fresh center-palate. Hints of spices and dried lemon peel. Bright and focused. Pretty fruit. Refined.

James Suckling (94-95)

A juicy and crunchy red with blackberry, chocolate, hazelnut. Mocha. Full to medium body with a creamy texture. Lots going on here. 64% merlot and 36% cabernet franc.

Jeb Dunnuck (96)

A gorgeous example of this château in Pomerol, the 2023 Château Nénin is a blend of 67% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon that was aged 16 months in 40% new French oak. Ripe red and black fruits, chocolaty herbs, graphite, and damp earth all shine on the nose, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a rich, layered, textured mouthfeel, sweet tannins, and a great finish. I wouldn't be surprised to see this turn out to be the greatest Nénin ever produced. Drink 2028-2053.

Wine Spectator (94)

Has lovely blackberry, milk chocolate and blueberry. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long, caressing finish. Balanced and refined, with beautiful tannins. Wonderful length and finesse. Best after 2011. -JS

James Suckling (92-93)

This is very minerally with a peach stone and brambleberry character. Full body, with delicately chewy tannins and a long length. Very refined. Very well done for the second wine of Lafleur that made a top 2011. 54% Merlot and 46% Cabernet Franc.

Vinous - Neal Martin (90)

The 2012 Pensées de Lafleur comes across a little bretty on the nose, and this obscures some of the terroir expression. I would have liked more complexity here. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins, solid with good grip, yet it lacks a bit of charm (not that this Pomerol seems overly concerned). Is it holding something back or just a bit too serious? Tasted blind at the Southwold Ten-Year On tasting.