2014 Chateau de Valandraud, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru

Bad boy Jean-Luc Thunevin has possibly produced the finest Valandraud since his debut vintage in 1992. A blend of 65% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and a tiny shot of Carmenere, the wine has an opaque purple colour and a beautiful nose of spring flowers, creme de cassis, blueberry, charcoal, and a hint of espresso. A seamless, full-bodied mouth-feel, striking purity, a skyscraper-like texture, freshness, and precision make for the most complex and noble, as well as most concentrated and massive Valandraud to date. This wine should drink beautifully for 25 or more years. Kudos to St.-Emilion’s patron saint of garage wines.

he 2014 Valandraud is one of the most alluring wines of the year. Deep, dense and explosive to the core, the 2014 possesses an extra level of textural finesse and pure refinement that elevates it. Crème de cassis, mint, licorice, cloves and new leather blossom in an effortless glass, beautifully marrying ripeness with freshness. The vibrant, pulsating finish alone is incredibly inviting. Readers who want to understand the captivating interplay of fruit and freshness that defines the 2014s will want to check out Valandraud. Tasted two times.

96 points Antonio Galloni vinous.com