Le Bon Pasteur

James Suckling 94: Aromas of blackberries, black olive skin, bark and mushrooms follow through to a medium to full body with round, polished tannins and a slightly smoky, meaty and juicy finish to the fruit. Chewy at the end. Chunky. 80% merlot and 20% cabernet franc. Drink after 2027.

Vinous 94: The 2020 Le Bon Pasteur is just as compelling from bottle as it was en primeur. Dark, ample and beautifully resonant, the 2020 is engaging right out of the gate. Blackberry, espresso, chocolate, licorice, spice and mocha build in a potent, layered Pomerol that delivers the goods. The balance of fruit intensity and vibrancy is compelling.

James Suckling 94: Refined and integrated oak gives a classy touch to the fruit. Smoke, cigar box and hints of truffle, cocoa beans and sandalwood to the ripe cherries and blackberries. Medium body on the palate with fine, dusty tannins and a slightly chewy but very extensive finish. Give it one or two more years. Try from 2024 through to 2032.

Vinous 94: The 2021 Le Bon Pasteur is dark, rich and super-expressive. Large-scaled, ample and persistent, the 2021 is layered with red fruit, mocha, plum and spice. The resonant, textured finish and overall balance here are commendable.

Decanter 92: Oaky nose, smells heavily extracted and potent. Great high acidity opens the palate, sharp and bright, before turning quite salty and sombre. The frame is definitely taking over right now, putting the fruit and acidity to the back and presenting fine but massy tannins and lots of toasty concentration. Nice licks of freshness and liquorice though.