An absolutely amazing wine from the Nicolas family, this is from another estate in Pomerol that is pushing the envelope to higher and higher quality. The final blend has moved to smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc, now approximately 20%, with the balance 80% Merlot. Through crop-thinning, yields have been reduced to an average of 35 hectoliters per hectare. Inky bluish/purple color and stunning sweet tannins embrace a full-bodied opulent Pomerol with beautiful, floral-infused black raspberry, blueberry and cassis fruit. Full-bodied, yet elegant, this is a brilliant marriage between finesse and power. Stunningly pure, this wine can be drunk young or age magnificently for 20 or more years.

On the robust side of Pomerol for now, with ganache and tar notes underscoring the core of dark plum, linzer torte, blackberry and black currant fruit. The elements meld nicely through fleshy, cocoa-accented finish, where a lingering iron accent emerges alongside ample yet silky tannins. Shows impressive depth, suggesting that elegance will come from cellaring. Best from 2017 through 2027. -JM

For the 2012 vintage, Michel Rolland was involved in the blending. In subsequent vintages, Rolland will work closer with Jean Michel Laporte in the vineyards as well as in the cellars. 2012 set a record for the highest percentage of Merlot used in the blend at La Conseillante, taking up 89% of the blend, 11% Cabernet Franc was also included. The wine reached 14.2% alcohol with a pH of 3.67. The wine will be aged in 70% new French oak. Truffles, earth, wood, floral and black raspberry notes open the wine, but the fireworks start when the wine hits the palate. There is depth, purity of fruit, sweetness and silky, sexy tannins with a long, velvety-textured, fresh, spicy and black cherry-filled finish. 94-96 Pts