2007 Pavie Macquin, St-Emilion (Previously $59)

91 points Robert Parker: "This property never makes a very forward style of wine, and in the precocious, charming, upfront 2007 vintage, Pavie Macquin has fashioned an unexpectedly backward, powerful offering. Perhaps this vineyard’s character is due to the clay and limestone plateau on which the vineyard is planted...The wine reveals a dense blue/purple color in addition to a bouquet of burning embers intermixed with charcoal, graphite, blackberries, and cassis. Extracted, but not excessively so, and full-bodied, with lots of tannin and structure, this atypical 2007 requires 3-4 years of cellaring. It should evolve for 15 or more years." (04/10) 91 points Stephen Tanzer: "Good deep red-ruby. Black cherry, blackberry, licorice and spices on the nose, complicated by hints of dried fruits and dried herbs; exotic yet refined. Supple, suave and dry in a positive way, with an edge of acidity and underlying minerality firming the flavors of plum, spices and tobacco leaf. Finishes with sweet but firm tannins and excellent focus and lift..." 90 points and an Editors' Choice, Wine Enthusiast: "The wine has developed well, with plenty of weight, but the fruit seems a little diffuse, soft, open in character. It's masking the tannin core, a wine that opens slowly and carefully." (04/10) K&L's notes - Another winner at UGC. A bit reserved on nose, but tons of fruit on palate. Elegant and balanced. Very ripe tannins. One of K&L Bordeaux buyer Clyde Beffa's Top 10 of the vintage.