Ming L

8.8

The nose shows lemon peel, yellow apple, dry hay, hint of almond and fresh herbs. The palate is gently waxy with fresh acidity. Medium finish combining saline minerality with light herbal-citrus lift.

Still quite the savory expression of Garganega, though it blends in some Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. — 6 hours ago

Ming L

9.1

Aromas of strawberry, pomelo, watermelon, rose petal, sea breeze, and hint of thyme. The palate adds additional red berries, citrus, and faint earthy notes. Medium body that is nicely textured. Fresh yet round acidity. There is off-dry sensation on the otherwise slightly savory medium finish.

Lovely but pricy rose. — 8 days ago

Ming L

9.2

The NV13 is blend of mostly Merlot (51%) and Cab (28%) from 2 great Napa vintages: 2012 (60%) and 2013 (40%).

Aromas of black cherry, plum, cedar, fig, dried herbs, and hint of graphite. Medium-full body, the palate shows both power and structure. Long savory finish with a lingering note of dark chocolate.

Skillfully done. At its prime. — 18 days ago

Ming L

9.3

At year 15 this shows remarkable freshness, a testament to both the famed vineyard and the vintage. Bright blackcurrant and preserved plum notes remain vivid, framed by subtle graphite, dried sage, tobacco leaf, and a gentle hint of green pepper that adds lift rather than greenness. The palate is supple and harmonious, with savory sweetness, fine-grained tannins, and lingering volcanic minerality carrying through a long, composed finish. — 4 days ago

Ming L

9.3

The nose shows plush and rich profile with waves of blackberry compote, plum, cassis, mocha and cedar. Yet the palate is surprisingly restrained and composed. The modest 13.5% abv lends balance, allowing floral nuances and graphite minerality to emerge beneath the polished richness.

Often considered the least prestige of the 2nd growths, in a great vintage like 2016 Lascombes still delivers. A long life ahead. — 9 days ago

Ming L

9.0

Aromas of kirsch, dried cherry, old wood, leather, and warm spice lead into a broad, supple palate. The fruit is ripe and generous, with earthy undertones and hints of black olive and dried herbs. Structure comes more from fine tannins than visible acidity, giving a smooth, gently weighted flow rather than lift. The finish is savory and persistent, marked by a candied touch.

A nice traditional CdP, but it does not show the fruit purity and freshness that’s one of the hallmark of the great 16’ vintage. — 14 days ago

Ming L

9.3

100% Merlot from Margaux?! This is the inaugural release.

The nose is opulent showing black pepper and cocoa layered over ripe black plum and mulberry, with subtle purple floral lift. The palate is rich, plush, and velvety with great depth. Yet the wine remains poised with fresh acidity and fine, polished tannins carry a sense of precision.

Doubling the price of the grand vin, but not unreasonable IMO.
— 21 days ago

Ming L

9.4

The nose opens with waves of ripe black cherry, cassis, plum liqueur, and dark chocolate Beneath the opulence lies impressive complexity with hints of espresso, violets, and peppery spice emerge gradually with air. The palate is dense and supple, showing warmth and generosity. Plenty of nuance beneath the lavish fruit.

Possibly the best value for a St-Emilion GCC. Will need to seek out more. — 6 days ago

Ming L

9.2

The nose shows peach, lemon zest, chalk, and subtle brioche. The palate is clean and precise with polished acidity and a refined finish. Fine persistent mousses. Composed and elegant, but lacking a bit of the depth and layered intensity.

8 years on lees. Disgorged in 2024. — 10 days ago

Ming L

9.0

The fragrant nose shows green apple, lemon, pear, starfruit, and subtle fresh herbs. Medium body with round texture that balances the high acidity nicely. Touch of seashell on the refreshing finish.

A delightful Chenin Blanc. — 15 days ago