La Conseillante 2014

Classical elegance in an uncompromising form, whereby the richness is beautifully interwoven with the dry tannins. The finish very long, savory and complex. A lot of delicate spicy and olive notes make this really complex.

The 2014 La Conseillante has a well-defined bouquet with brambly red berry fruit, minerals, touches of seaweed and light incense aromas that develop fine intensity in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannin. This Pomerol is very well poised with perfectly judged acidity. Whilst not a match for Titans like the 1989 or 2010, this La Conseillante possesses nuance and sophistication, a precision that does justice to the name. It should be earlier-drinking that other vintages that I have tasted, though given the terroir and track record, it would not surprise me if it gives 25 years of drinking pleasure. Tasted twice with consistent notes. Drink 2019-2040.

The 2014 La Conseillante is medium to deep garnet-brick in color. Notes of dried cherries and rose oil spill from the glass, followed by hints of sassafras, black tea, and underbrush. The medium-bodied palate has compelling brightness with a refreshing backbone and soft tannins, finishing on a fragrant earth note.

Tasted blind. Floral vegy nose. Rather austere on the nose. Masses of acidity. Some greenness.
Drink 2023-2035

Fabulously situated alongside Cheval Blanc and L'Evangile, this property has a long track record of making outstanding wine that is never forced or over-extracted. Always consistent and reliable. Quality has been further improved in recent years by the the production of a second wine - Duo de la Conseillante. The Grand Vin is made from 78% Merlot and 22% Cabernet Franc in 75% new oak with a yield of 35hl/ha. Medium-deep ruby. A pure and aromatic cherry nose with smoky tobacco and fresh graphite notes. There is a lovely intensity to the ripe palate which has a sweet, juicy entry. Ripe blue and red fruits are complemented by classy French oak giving a creamy textured mouthfeel. Silky smooth tannins and layered complexity, with classic Conseillante style. Lovely length and perfect balance. Very impressive.

Charming and silky, this could stand in for a Chambolle-Musigny, with blood orange and damson plum coulis notes hitting a slightly higher pitch before turning to darker plum and black cherry flavors. Gorgeous floral and rooibos tea details fill in on the long, suave finish. A graceful version that will be hard to lay off, though capable of handling cellaring. Best from 2020 through 2035. 3,235 cases made.

The nose has a mix of black fruits some fresh bramble backed by richer black cherry the palate is sweet and ripe, fleshy and supple in the middle, the fruit supported by fine tannins. Rich and sweet fruited at the back depth of flavour the finish stylish long with lingering flavours. 2022-35

Jean-Michel Laporte's last vintage at this impressive Pomerol property is one of the best he's ever made. It's all about perfume and finesse, with deftly used (75% new) oak, granular tannins, and acidity adding freshness and definition. Sappy and refined, this has more tannin than you think.