Press Reviews

Château Garraud 2009.  Lalande de Pomerol. Excellent ***. VINO Magazine, Juillet - Août 2010 (Belgique)

Château Treytins 2009. Montagne Saint-Emilion. Good *. VINO Magazine, Juillet - Août 2010 (Belgique)

Château Garraud 2009. Lalande de Pomerol. Score 90-93. Blackberry and floral aromas follow through to a full body, with velvety tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Very well done. - J.S. Winespectator.com, April 9, 2010 (USA)

l'Ancien 2009. Lalande de Pomerol. Score: 88-91. Blueberry and mineral on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a clean finish. A wine that is nearly always beautiful. - J.S. Winespectator.com, April 9, 2010 (USA)

Château Treytins 2009. Montagne-Saint-Emilion. Score  84-87. A little lean, with some berry and cherry character. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins. A little short.- J.S. Winespectator.com, April 9, 2010 (USA)

Château Garraud 2009. Lalande de Pomerol  ***. Deep colour. Good volume of fruit. Supple texture. Smooth, round tannins. Drink 2014-2020 (16 points). DECANTER 08/04/2010 (UK)

L'Ancien. Tel: 05 57 55 58 58. Website: www.vln.fr Owner: Nony family, 4 ha. 100% Merlot, Production: 8,000 bottles. This property is under the same ownership and management as the much larger Château Garraud (q.v.). As at Garraud, the wine is made by Vincent Duret. The vintage here was 1997. The soil are deep gravel and clay-gravel, and the vines have an average age of forty years. Yields are low at around thirty hl/h, and the grapes are picked by hand. Because the volumes are small, Duret has been able to experiment with barrel-fermentation, using both 225-liter and 400-litre barrels. The wine is aged for eighteen month in entirely new oak. . The only vintage I have tested, the 2003, had boiled-sweets aromas, but was rich, rounded, concentrated, and lightly spicy; the oak was well integrated and overall the wine showed some elegance. THE COMPLETE BORDEAUX 2010,  Stephen Brook.  (USA)

Château Garraud. Tel: 05 57 55 58 58. Website: www.vln.fr Owner: Nony family, 19 ha. 95% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc. Production: 90,000 bottles, Second wine: Graves de Goujon. Léon Nony a Libourne-based négociant, bought this property in 1939, and to-day it is run by his grandson Jean-Marc. Until the mid-1980 most of the wine was sold in bilk. Since 1994 Vincent Duret has been running the estate and making its wine. The chai and the eighteenth-century hunting lodge are rather austere neo-classical buildings, but behind them are more modern installations, including ultra-modern offices and workers'housing. The soils are very varied, ranging from deep gravel to sand and including a parcel of pure clay over crasse de fer. The major proportion of the vineyards lies close to Montagne-Saint-Emilion. The vines are on average some forty years old. Some of the vineyards are picked by hand, but Duret favours machine-harvesting if the grapes are healthy. Fermentation take place in steel tanks, with occasional use of micro-oxygenation, although Duret is not very keen on the practice. The wine is aged for twelve months in forty percent new oak, and, depending on the vintage, some lots are kept in tanks and blended in with the oaked lots. The same team also vinify Château Treytins and l'Ancien.The 2001 is generously fruity on the nose; the wine is rich and full-bodied, but has a leathery finish. The 2002 is more discreet aromatically, but very pure; it's sleek and stylish, with moderate concentration, and firm tannins on the finish. Overall, it lacks the energy of the 2001. The aromas of the 2003 are a touch confected, and the palate, which shows attractive cherry fruit, is rather hollow. In general these are well-made and reliable  commercial wines. THE COMPLETE BORDEAUX 2010,  Stephen Brook.  (USA)

Château Treytins.  Tel: 05 57 55 58 58. Website: www.vln.fr Owner: Nony family, 11 ha. 55% Cabernet Franc, 45% Merlot . Production: 50,000 bottles.Like the larger Château Garraud, this property belongs to the Nony family and is run by Vincent Duret. Clay and gravel dominate the well-drained soils. The grapes are picked by hand and by machine. The wine is aged partly in older barrels ands partly in tanks. The only vintage I have tested is the very ripe gut rather confected 2003, which has modest length and a rather dry finish. The high proportion of Cabernet Franc is unusual here, and I wonder what effect it has on the wine in more conventional vintages. Three more hectares fall within the Montagne-St-Emilion appellation and are vinified and labelled separately. Thee vine is made exactly the same way, but the grape mix is very different: eighty-five per cent Merlot and fifteen per cent Cabernet Franc. The 2002 lacks concentration and vigour, while the glossy 2003 has boiled-sweets aromas, ripe, easy-going fruit, and modest length. THE COMPLETE BORDEAUX 2010,  Stephen Brook . (USA)

L'Ancien 2007. Lalande de Pomerol : Note 89/100. Intense colour with crimson highlights. Deep nose of ripe red fruit with slightly perceptible toasted accents. Seductively full mouth-feel, well-integrated tannins and length. On the finish, the fruit leads into a welcome vanilla touch. Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2011 (France)

Château Garraud 2007. Lalande de Pomerol : Note 87/100. Deep colour with brilliant crimson shades. Enticing nose with floral and fruit accents augmented by nice quality wood. Average power, delicate tannins, pleasing freshness combine to enhance pleasant fruitiness. Serve wity red meat. Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2011 (France)

Château Treytins 2007. Montagne Saint-Emilion : 87/100. Deep colour with beautiful brilliance. Clean nose combining small red and black fruit liquoricy undertones; Fleshy attack, finely-woven texture. A harmonious, fruit forward wine. Enjoyable length. Serve with roast poultry. Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2011 (France)

Château Treytins 2006. Montagne Saint-Emilion : 85/100. Saturated color. Ripe red fruit on the nose, well-built. Full style, generous and plump. An expressive, perfumed Montagne, quite enjoyable in its youth. Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2010 (France)

L’Ancien 2006 : 89/100. Intense color with purple highlights. Concentrated red and black fruit on the nose, note of new oak. Dense, fine, a trace of wood, wrapped in fullness and strength. Still young, needs cellaring. Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2010 (France)

Château Garraud 2006 : 88/100. Saturated color, violet highlights. Attractive floral and fruity aromas on the nose, with sweet spices in the background. Ample, fine, plump, pure aromas. A full, delicate Lalande. Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2010 (France)

Château Garraud 2005. The evening of the 31st we opened a wine I had not tasted for a long time: a Château Garraud Lalande de Pomerol 2005 from my cellar. Oh what a boom! A red Bordeaux, like for many wine lovers, was my first love. I can still remember the beginning, when we only had wines from so-so vintages to coat our palates, marked by wood that wasn’t too “clean”. Then came 1982, 83, 85, 86, 88, 89, and 90: Bliss! But, personally, I looked elsewhere, far away, for a long time. A very long time, as I finally realized with this Garraud 2005 that just blew me away. What a wine! Meat with terroir. You want some, well here it is! And best of all, as there were just the four of us adults, was that each mouthful made me repeat like an idiot: "Damn, it’s good to drink good Bordeaux!", and we didn’t even finish the bottle. Without taking any precautions, we left the remaining third of the bottle on the kitchen counter. What really clinched it for me once and for all was that the next day at noon it was still going strong as though we had just opened it, that Garraud! So, I have two messages. The first is that if you think this wine is expensive, you’re wrong! Verification made with 1-800 Canadian Statistics. For Quebec, the price index has risen by 20.1% since 1998.  At that time, Garraud 1995 cost 31.50$; and in 1999, the 1996 was at 28.10$! That means that this excellent 2005 should cost 37.83$ according to the Canadian consumption price index. Well, I do admit that in January, 28.40$, for many of us could seem expensive on Tuesday. Raymond Chalifoux, ICI Montreal (Canada)

L’Ancien 2006. Old Merlots, very strict selection, serious aging, built to last: this Ancien has it all. A little stricter than the 2005 but with lush, ripe tannins, this wine will require a few years cellaring. Jean Aubry, Le Devoir, 13 February 2009 (Canada)

Château Garraud 2005. After a 2004 (commented in the 2008 selection) less plump than the 2003 (commented in the 2007 selection), Garraud unveils a 2005 achieved with panache, a must for the vintage. A distinguished wine, complete, deep, with perfectly ripe tannins, fine-grained, full and textured, not too much, with lingering savors, displaying mineral notes of graphite, as well as a touch of black fruit and clove. Superb harmony. This well nourished wine has not said its last word. Grape varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon. www.vin.fr - Guide Chartier 2009 (Canada)

Château Treytins 2005. Lalande de Pomerol. Treytins presents a 2005 which is, for the moment, less relaxed and less textured than in recent vintages. However, its compact, firm, long-lined structure assures good evolution in the bottle. A beautiful mass of fruit confirms this potential. Keep this one in the cellar until winter 2010 to enjoy its smoothness. For the price, this not-to-be-missed Lalande de Pomerol is one of the great buys of the region for wines under thirty dollars. Grape varieties: Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon. Guide Chartier 2009 (Canada)

Château Garraud 2005. After a stricter, more discreet 2004 which will continue to improve in the cellar for a few more years, the 2005 is up and running. The balance of the vintage is seen even before the wine has been sniffed. In fact, it’s ready to drink now, and it’s delicious! But watch out, this is only the first glance. There’s plenty of fruit behind that dense, fresh structure. The tannins are abundant and ripe; the finish is well defined, distinguished. The careful, if not luxurious, wine-making is once again well adapted. Not bad at all with stuffed goose or capon, or a beefsteak with oyster mushrooms. Guide Aubry 2009 (Canada)

Château Garraud 2005. Never fabulous but often satisfying, this "mini Pomerol" generally favours balance and fullness. Quite rightly, the 2005 isn’t deeper, but the dense fruit and fleshiness give it lots of charm. Drink starting 2012. Guide Phaneuf 2009 (Canada)

Château Treytins 0052. Lalande de Pomerol: Especially supple and delicious, this medium structured wine is supported by ripe tannins and freshness. Ready to drink. Guide Phaneuf 2009 (Canada)

Château Garraud 2008. 16/20. Fine, firm with expressive dark fruit aromas. Good length on the finish. Balanced weight and style. Drink 2013-2018. Decanter.Com, Web site, 08 April 2009 (Great Britain)

Château Garraud 2006 : 15,5/20 : Sight: carmine-garnet, intense, bright. Nose: Perfumed and smooth with flattering notes of raspberry, violet and morello cherry jam. A charming bouquet, completed with a touch of caramel upon aeration. Palate: Straightforward and suave, this perfectly balanced wine is very ripe in the mouth, accentuating the expression of jammy fruit (cherry, wild blackberry). Delicate, melt-in-your-mouth tannins support a delicious mid-palate. Long, rather polished finish. (2009-2012) Vins & Terroirs Authentiques, Spring 2009 (France)

Château Garraud 2005 : Saturated color. Ripe fruit on the nose giving way to wild aromas redolent of undergrowth with aeration. Full in the mouth, plump, balanced. This Lalande has nice potential. Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2009 (France)

Château Treytins 2005, Montagne Saint-Emilion : Deep color with cherry highlights. Attractive nose of ripe red fruit with a hint of undergrowth. A corpulent, structured Montagne, displaying good balance with firmness. Try it with wild fowl. Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2009 (France)

L’Ancien 2005 : 87/100 : Deep saturated color with youthful highlights. Black fruit on the nose, spicy notes in the background. Powerful and concentrated on the palate with a firm finish and a touch of bitterness. Still young, keep it in the cellar. Decant. Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2009 (France)

 L’Ancien 2006. Emile Peynaud had a simple description of a great wine. It is, he said in essence, and from memory, a wine that is said to be great by a majority of good tasters… One could say, in my opinion, of the magnificent Lalande de Pomerol 2006 l'Ancien, from a small domain of four hectares of old vines (45 years average). 100% Merlot aged in 100% new barrels, lots of color but not opaque. The distinguished bouquet is ample and harmonious, showing black fruit and spicy notes without excessive wood. The level is the same in the mouth; fleshy and dense, with beautiful, fat tannins and good length. There are more refined red Bordeaux, but this is great art, and a great wine, at a good price (43 cases). Jacques Benoit, la Presse de Montréal, 21 February 2009 (Canada)

Château Garraud 2003 : A very aromatic vintage, quite rich, ample, generous and velvety, yet nourished and persistent, with notes of plum, roasted coffee and graphite. Michel Phaneuf, Guide Phaneuf 2008 (Canada)

Château Garraud 2003 : Another wonderful mouthfilling wine with perfectly ripe fruit, comfortably coating all taste buds in its path. Fine woody notes linger on the palate as you daydream. Serve with veal scallops in a cream sauce. Jean Aubry, Le devoir.com 01/09/06 (Canada)

Château Garraud 2007 : 16/20 : reductive, black fruit, supple in the mouth, soft, quite elegant, tender, supple, smooth tannins, quite “pomerolais”, chocolaty. Jacques Dupont, Le Point n°1860 (France)

L’Ancien 2007 : 17/20 : Same owner as Garraud and the same Technical Director, Vincent Duret. The Nonys are part of a big family of immigrants from Correze, all coming from the same village (other branches of the family are in Saint-Emilion). Vincent Duret attributes the success of the wines to the Vineyard Manager: "It all starts with Serge Faubet. He’s a good friend. We’re going to the rugby semi-finals together. He works according to the soil ; he was born in the vineyard. L'Ancien has been a unity from the start : Ten years ago we took over the neighbor’s vines, which he worked very well, but harvested every year around September 15^th. In the beginning, we worked like we were producing a garage wine. Since 1997, it’s become the base to which we add the old vines of Garraud. 100% Merlot". Tobacco on the nose, a little closed, supple in the mouth, soft, elegant, fresh, little tannins with great finesse. Long, fine, elegant. Jacques Dupont, Le Point n°1860 (France)

Château Treytins 2003, Lalande de Pomerol : Let’s start with the traditional stuffed turkey: the ideal wine could be a moderately full-bodied wine such as Château Treytins 2003. This Bordeaux is predominately made from the Cabernet Franc grape, blended with some Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon (Merlot usually dominates in the Lalande de Pomerol appellation). The color is an intense ruby red. The fruit dominates on the nose (red fruit), accompanied by aromas of spices and wood. On the palate, the wine is moderately full-bodied, with supple, fleshy tannins. Just like the nose, the mouth offers fruit, spices and a delicate touch of wood. Quite an elegant Bordeaux! Marc Lepage, Journal de Sherbrooke 2007 (Canada)

Château Treytins 2002, Lalande de Pomerol : The reds of the Lalande de Pomerol appellation are among the best values for money in Bordeaux. Made by the same team that produces the excellent Château Garraud, this Treytins presents a pure nose with elegant fruit, a moderate richness, as well as fullness in the mouth, silky tannins, good freshness and amazing persistence for a wine of this price, with lingering aromas of plum, cocoa and coffee. Guide Chartier 2006 (Canada)

Château Treytins Lalande de Pomerol 2006, Bronze medal. Lovely prune bouquet of red and blue fruit, with classic capsicum. Still youthful. London International Wine Challenge 2008 (Great Britain)

Château Garraud 2005: 15/20 : Solid with good tannic definition. Revue du Vin de France n°526  (France)

Château Garraud 2005 * Important family property acquired in 1939 by Léon Nony, today managed by his grandson, Jean-Marc. This dark purple 2005 is a complete wine, with a deep bouquet of red fruit on a woody background, notes of liquorice, a little toasty. Full and fleshy, the mouth is supported by young, vigorous tannins that will need two or three years to soften. Guide Hachette 2009 (France)

 L’Ancien 2005 *  is made from a plot of Merlot that was acquired more recently. It’s a more exuberant wine, almost black, floral and fruity, soft with smooth tannins. Guide Hachette 2009 (France)

 L'Ancien 2005 is a fleshy wine with firm tannins, nice concentration, displaying aromas of red currant, humus and spices.  For cellaring. Guide Dusert Gerbert 2009 (France)

Château Garraud 2005 : Very well-ranked with this Lalande de Pomerol 2005, made from various terroirs of deep gravel, clayey-gravel, clay with iron pan, and clayey-sand (average vine age of 40 years, 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, hand-sorted, traditional aging for more than 18 months, 80% in oak barrels, a third of which are renewed every year). The wine is full and harmonious, with notes of macerated fruit, dense and colored, quite well structured. Guide Dusert Gerbert 2009 (France)

Château Treytins 2005, Montagne Saint-Emilion : It’s all in the mouth; power mingled with finesse, a rich, full-bodied wine the way we like it. Drink with roasted wild game. No hesitation. Guide Dussert Gerbert 2009 (France)

Garraud  2007, Silver Medal, Youthful colour. Black cherry fruit. Mouthwatering tannins, medium length, with a nice plumy finish International Wine Challenge, 2009

Treytins Montagne Saint-Emilion 2007, Bronze Medal. Fine fruit on the nose even better on the palate - good length, good tannins. International Wine Challenge, 2009

Garraud  2008 ***, Lalande de Pomerol. Fine, firm with expressive dark fruit aromas. Good  length on the finish. Balanced weight and style. Drink 2013-2018. (16 points). James Lawther MW, Lalande-de-Pomerol, Recommendations, Bordeaux 2008 en primeur. Decanter.com website, April  08th, 2009 (UK)

Garraud 2004 ***, Lalande de Pomerol. This must-have 2004 from the Libourne region is not as plump as the 2003, but full-bodied and complex, hearty and lively. Guide Chartier 2008 (Canada)

Treytins 2004 ***, Lalande de Pomerol. Without being particularly exuberant or imposing, this Lalande sets itself apart with a satisfying freshness, typical of classic Bordeaux. Supple, easy to drink, well rounded and balanced. Drink during the coming three years. Guide Phaneuf 2008 (Canada)

Treytins 2004 ***, Lalande de Pomerol; for the money, this must-have Lalande de Pomerol is one of the great buys from the region for wines priced under thirty dollars. Like the 2003 vintage, where Merlot dominates the blend, this 2004 showcases the Cabernet Franc, which slightly changes the profile, playing off the liveliness and classic elegance of this great variety. The resulting red is flagrant and fine, smooth yet refreshing in the mouth, with elegant, tightly-knit tannins that give way to hints of strawberry and coffee. Blend : 49% Cabernet Franc, 39% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon. Guide Chartier 2008 (Canada)

Garraud 2004 **, Lalande de Pomerol.  The 2004 vintage was a great success for this family vineyard as evidenced by these two remarkable cuvées.  Garraud is dark with bright ruby highlights, offering vanilla-infused oak and distinctive fruit.  It opens up in the mouth, showing amplitude and length, and displays aromas of toast and mild spices interlaced with a hint of black fruit.  The tannins are present but silky, reinforcing the impression of fullness.  Age in the cellar for three to five years.  Le Guide Hachette des Vins 2008 (France)

L'Ancien 2004, Lalande de Pomerol is an elegant cuvée of pure Merlot.  Drink it now with venison stew.  Le Guide Hachette des Vins 2008 (France)

Treytins, Montagne Saint-Emilion 80/100.  Deep red color.  Attractive nose of ripe fruit.  A supple, light style.  The fruit gives way to a lively, vegetal finish.  Guide Gilbert & Gaillard de Vins 2008.  Les meilleurs vins de France.  (France)

 Garraud 2004, Lalande de Pomerol 88/100.  Lively, quite concentrated red color.  The nose displays ripe red and black fruit accentuated by discrete oak.  Fleshy in the mouth, it possesses beautiful structure.  A wine with character supported by intense, persistent fruit.  Guide Gilbert & Gaillard de Vins 2008.  Les meilleurs vins de France.  (France)

L'Ancien 2004, 87/100.  Youthful concentrated red color.  Crisp red fruit on the nose supported by discrete oak.  Supple in the mouth with silky tannins that give this wine a pleasant typicity.  A crispy, aromatic Merlot.  Guide Gilbert & Gaillard de Vins 2008. Les meilleurs vins de France.  (France)

Garraud, Lalande de Pomerol.  Large domain composed of a single block of vines planted on diverse soils.  Exemplary work is done in the vineyard to control the yield.  The grapes are selected by hand on a sorting table, and the technical equipment is state-of-the-art.  Most of the aging is done in barrel.  The resulting wine is colored, rich and powerful without aggressiveness, and of regular quality.  The 2005 (16) is rich and fat, like Garraud’s beautiful 2000.  The 2004 (14) is supple and relatively light.  Drink now.  The 2003 (14) is firmer, whereas the 2002 possesses an attractive grain, but lacks a bit of consistency.  L’Ancien, Lalande de Pomerol 2004 (14,5), 2003 (16,5). Guide de Référence de la Revue du Vin de France.  Les Meilleurs Vins de France 2008.  (Pomerol section)  (France)

 L'Ancien 2005, Lalande de Pomerol : 84-86 : Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, Vintage 2005 (USA)

Garraud 2005, Lalande de Pomerol : 86-88 : Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, Vintage 2005 (USA)

L'Ancien 2003, Lalande de Pomerol :  Mouthfilling, this wine is firm and well-structured, with aromas of ripe fruit and underwood.  Patrick Dussert-Gerbert, Millésimes, 2007  (France)

Garraud 2003, Lalande de Pomerol: Discover this very aromatic vintage, fairly rich, ample, generous and silky, quite copious and persistent, with hints of prune, toast and graphite.  Michel Phaneuf, Guide des Vins 2007 (Canada)

 Garraud 2004, Lalande de Pomerol:  This highly regarded Lalande de Pomerol comes from diverse soils of deep gravel, clayey-gravel, iron-rich clay, and clayey-sand.  It is full-bodied, displaying a deep color with dominant red fruit and mild tannins.  Mouthfilling, powerful and well-structured, with hints of cherry.  Patrick Dussert-Gerbert, Millésimes, 2007 (France)

Garraud 2006, Lalande de Pomerol: Smooth and elegant on the nose as well as on the palate, this wine possesses finesse and attractive fruit.  Well vinified.  Hélène Durand, La Revue du Vin de France, June 2007 (France)

L'Ancien 2006 : 16. Lalande de Pomerol.  A touch of vanilla on the nose, fruit compote, cinnamon, round in the mouth, smooth, the oak is present without dominating, supple structure, soft attack that spreads out, develops, taking on fullness to an aromatic, smooth finish.  Jacques Dupont, Le Point, 24 May 2007 (France)

Garraud 2006 : 15,  80% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, green fruit on the nose, slightly peppery, lively and full in the mouth, tannins are present but without aggressiveness, regular, balanced.  Cacao on the finish is quite “Pomerolish”.  Jacques Dupont, Le Point, 24 May 2007 (France)

 Treytins, Montagne Saint Emilion 2006 : 14,5. Cassis, fresh, lively, spicy, a little hard on the finish but well balanced.  Jacques Dupont, Le Point, 24 May 2007 (France)

Garraud 2003, Lalande de Pomerol:  Once again, this marvelously mouthfilling wine is a charmer, the perfectly ripe fruit comfortably caresses each and every taste bud it encounters.  Fine, lingering nuances of oak will invite you to dream.  Serve it with veal scallops in cream sauce.  Jean Aubry, Le Devoir.com, 1st September 2006 (Canada)

l’Ancien 2005 : 16. Big colour, lots of supple Merlot fruit,  Spicy, tobacey, good grip, good length. 2009-16. James Lawther, Decanter June 2006 (UK)

Garraud 2005 : 16  Big colour, smoky cassis fruit. Good fleshy wine, firm backbone, good lengh. 2009-16. James Lawther, Decanter June 2006 (UK)

l'Ancien, Lalande de Pomerol 2005 : 85-88. Loads of blackberry and cherry aromas follow through to a full-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a fresh finish. Bit short. James Stuckling, Wine Spectator, Website April 2006 (USA)

Garraud, Lalande de Pomerol 2005 : 85-88.  Good amount of berry fruit on the nose. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a fresh finish.  James Stuckling, Wine Spectator, Website April 2006. (USA)

Treytins, Montagne Saint-Emilion 2005 : 80-84. Medium-bodied, with good berry and chocolate fruit and a simple finish. James Stuckling, Wine Spectator, Website April 2006. (USA)

Garraud 2002 : 86/100 Saturated ruby red in color with garnet highlights. Expressive nose, combining ripe red fruit with discreet, spicy wood.  In the mouth, the style is powerful, corpulent, and quite firm.  A virile, well-built Lalande. Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2006 (France)

l’Ancien 2002 : 89/100. Attractive saturated color with purple highlights. Fine nose, expressive ripe red fruit (raspberry, cherry), with discreet, elegant wood. Fleshy in the mouth, tightly textured. Fine tannins, pure expression of fruit. Beautiful wine. Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2006 (France)

Treytins 2002, Montagne Saint-Emilion. Quite saturated in color with garnet highlights. Firm nose in the fruity-woody range. Fat and ample on the palate.  A powerful style that accentuates the fruit.  Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2006 (France)

Garraud 2002 - Since entering Quebec in 1998, this wine producer has developed a select group of loyal followers over the years, who buy the vintages arriving on the market with their eyes shut. And they’re right to do so ! For this wine is always regular and constantly well-finished. The best technical approach the vintage has to offer shows through every time. This 2002, colored and fragrant, offers a fine, elegant tannic frame, with just enough wood to support the whole. Snap up this wine from the same producer : Château l'Ancien, 100% Merlot simply amazing, whatever the vintage. Try it with rib steak and cepe mushrooms. Jean Aubry, Les 100 meilleurs vins à moins de 25$ - 2005 (Canada)

Garraud 2000. Rate 9/10. Pomerol, located on the Right Bank of the Gironde, the smallest of the fine-wine-producing district of Bordeaux. The wines of Pomerol are lush and rich an generally not so tannic as the Cabernet-based wines of the Left Bank. This elegant young Merlot-based Bordeaux shows a ruby color with rich aromas of black cherries, vanilla, plum flavors, ripe tannins along with spice and a little tobacco wash over the palate. Perfect with filet mignon or sautéed breast of duck. Excellent Value !!! Yi-Wen's Wine List, Shanghai Quartet, November 2005 (Web)

l’Ancien 2000 : 89/100. Intense color, purple highlights.  Concentrated nose of ripe red and black fruits intermingled with a toasty, chocolaty note. Dense in the mouth, the tannins are present, enveloped by fatness and freshness. A concentrated style from this generous vintage that speaks for itself. Nice length. Optimum drinking: 2006-2007. Also discover : Château l’Ancien 1999 : 84/100. Guide des Vins Gilbert et Gaillard 2005 (France)

Garraud 2000 : 86/100. Deep color, purple highlights. Concentrated nose of ripe black fruits (morello cherry), fine oak with accents of biscuit and toast. A corpulent, quite massive Lalande with admirable fruit. Wonderful mouthfeel, noticeable tannins and vivacity. This wine has got character and plenty of potential. Guide des Vins Gilbert et Gaillard 2005 (France)

Treytins Montagne Saint-Emilion 2001 : 84/100. Saturated color, purple nuances. Engaging nose, fruity and floral fragrances. Soft in the mouth, fresh and fragrant. The polished tannins and freshness showcase the pure fruit aromas. Beautiful Montagne. Guide des Vins Gilbert et Gaillard 2005 (France)

Treytins Montagne Saint-Emilion 2000 : 6,5/10. The nose is bursting with ripe fruit, accompanied by floral nuances. Fleshy in the mouth, vigorous and full of character. Guide Gerbelle & Maurange des meilleurs vins à petits prix 2005 (France)

Treytins Montagne Saint-Emilion 2002.  Silver medal. The vineyard of this small estate is tended like a garden. The wine exhibits attractive, complex aromas (red fruits with a touch of smoke). Well balanced with an elegant, fleshy tannic structure. Les 1001 vins médaillés du concours de Bruxelles 2004-2005 (Belgique)

Garraud shows what level the Lalande de Pomerol appellation can reach if the yields are controlled and the effort is made to use the equipment necessary to sort the grapes and control the vinification. The wines are colored, lush, powerful without aggressiveness, and of regular quality. The 2001 and 2000 both possess rich velvety texture, real length, and definite aging potential. The 2002 is a little more angular, but the tannins are fine-grained nevertheless. Guide Bettane & Desseauve, classement des meilleurs Vins de France 2005, (France)

Garraud 2001 **. This great vineyard, created in the 19th century by the Count of Kermartin, has been owned by the Nony family since 1939. It is located in Néac on clay-limestone soil and is planted with Merlot (three quarters) and Cabernet Franc (one quarter). The 2001 first seduces with its sumptuous purple color. The bouquet is elegant and racy, with aromas of cooked red and black fruit, cocoa, and toast. The palate is fleshy, full, concentrated, rich, and dense. A very fine wine for cellaring at an interesting price.  Guide Hachette 2005, (France)

l’Ancien 2001 **, made from pure Merlot, also gets two stars for its concentration and power, making it another great wine for the cellar. Guide Hachette 2005, (France)

Treytins, Montagne Saint-Emilion 2001 ** This small Chateau is located on the gravely soils of a hillside.  In the vineyard as well as in the winery, simple, efficient methods are used to obtain excellent wines. This is once again the case with this cuvée. Intense, almost black color, the aromas of fruits and spices are in harmony with pleasant notes of oak. The powerful tannins are velvety and ripe, and evolve with great finesse. A remarkable wine to enjoy in two to five years.  Guide Hachette 2005, (France)

l’Ancien 2001 ****(*) The attractive nose is pure, intense and refined. There is good concentration in the mouth, with tight flesh, solid tannins, and great length. This Lalande de Pomerol has great potential. Guide Hubert 2004, (France)

Garraud 2001****. The nose is refined and powerful, just like the palate, which offers fresh, suave texture and very powerful aromas. Guide Hubert 2004, (France)

Garraud 2001 Lalande de Pomerol *** ½ - Beautiful saturated ruby-purple. Always attractive, this Bordeaux offers a 2001 with a very Médoc-like nose of mineral notes, hints of mushroom, tobacco, cedar, and roasted aromas against a very ripe black fruit background. In the mouth it is full and supple, quite fluid, with ripe, juicy fruit, notes of black currant, toffee, and hints of mineral. Exceedingly fine tannins are enveloped by the substance of the wine, which is balanced and quite accessable. Drink it until 2011. Ledegustateur.com, Novembre 2004, Web (Canada)

Treytins, Montagne Saint-Emilion 2000****(*). Managed by the producer of Château Garraud in Lalande de Pomerol, this small vineyard of les than three hectares has produced excellent wines since 1997. The 2000 displays an attractive ruby color, still dense and brilliant. The palate is fine and elegant, with beautyfully balanced concentration and a perfect expression of fruit on the finish. A wine with finely integrated tannins. Stylish, perfectly vinified. Revue du Vin de France, October 2004, (France)

l’Ancien 2000. Toasty aromatics lead into a fresh palate with richness and complexity. Delicious chunky fruit, very expressive Merlot. 2-10 years. Decanter, September 2004, (UK).

l’Ancien 2002. Silver Medal. Oenologist Vincent Duret has made the most of this well-positioned estate. A profusion of silky cassis and plum Merlot fruit populates the structured, well-balanced, long palate. IWC, Wine International, website, July 2004, (UK)

Garraud 2002. Silver Medal. A smattering of Cabernet Franc accompanies this Merlot blend. Fragrant cedary aromas lead to an elegant palate of cassis. Lightly tannic, with a balanced finish. IWC, Wine International, website, July 2004, (UK)

Treytins, Lalande de Pomerol 2002. Bronze medal. Treytins produces wines with potential for early to medium drinking. Pencil shavings score the meaty cherry fruit on the palate. IWC, Wine International, website, July 2004, (UK)

Garraud 2003. We like it. The nose has fruity, floral and spicy aromas. On the palate

it is fleshy and vigorous. Revue de Vin de France. June 2004, (France)

l’Ancien 2003. 85-88. Clean and fruity with plum and berry character. Medium body. Fine finish. Nice wine. Wine Spectator, Website, May 2004, (USA)

Garraud 2003. 80-84. Soft and easy, with some berry character, but finishes rather short and simple. Wine Spectator, Website, May 2004, (USA)

Treytins, Montagne Saint-Emilion 2003. 80-84. Plumy and soft, with medium body and a light finish. Wine Spectator, Website, May 2004, (USA)

Garraud 1999 ****.  Very pleasant, with good depth, length, and structure.  Selection, Spring 2004, (Germany)

Lalande de Pomerol produces supple wines with a precocious bouquet.  However, they have a bothersome tendency to become diluted if the vine yield is too high.  Garraud shows what heights the appellation can reach if the yields are controlled and the effort is made to use the necessary equipment to sort the grapes and control the vinification.  The wines are colored, fat, and powerful, with no aggressiveness and of consistent quality.  2001 (8/10), 2000 (8/10) and 1999 (8/10) are equally charming with superb tannin velvet.  Among the three, 2000 will certainly have the greatest ability for laying down. 1999 will be appreciated from now and during the next 5 years. Guide Bettane & Dessauve, Classement des meilleurs Vins de France 2004. (France)

Treytins 2000. A small vineyard with quality terroir and careful vinification. Two essential factors produce a wine adorned with an intense garnet colour, enhanced by aromas of red fruit, menthol and smoky notes. The harmonious, well-balanced tannic structure should allow this wine to open up after two to five years of aging. Le Guide Hachette des Vins 2004. (France)

Garraud 2001. Taste Château Garraud (AOC Lalande de Pomerol, less expensive than the prestigious Pomerol neighbor) : The 2001 vintage possesses all the density and refinement you could wish for. Le Figaro, 15 November 2003. (France)

Garraud 2000 (Best Buy). Having enjoyed many excellent wines dating back to the fine 1970 vintage from this modestly priced chateau, I can testify to its superior aging ability. Over time, it takes on a pleasingly rustic tarry note to complement its supple black cherry and plum fruit. But unlike many 2000, its one is tailor-made for maximum drink-now delight. Like several of the really smart producers in neighbouring Pomerol (e.g. Christian Moueix of Château Petrus and Château Lafleur) owner Leon Nony recognized early on that the 2000 vintage had a rather unseemly potential to produce excessively mouth-puckering, 1975-like tannins in Pomerol and Lalande-de-Pomerol. So instead of trying to produce a carbon copy of the wonderful plump and massive 1998 Château Garraud, he throttled back on tannins and kicked up the fruit to produce a more supple, but still generously constituted bottle of the classic Merlot-based Bordeaux. This well-made wine is a superb value. The Washington Post, Wine plus, The right Bank of Bordeaux, Ben Giliberti, June 2003. (USA)

Garraud 2002. We like it. La Revue du Vin de France, spécial millésime 2002, June 2003. (France)

Garraud 2002. Approachable, discreet, violet. Flavorful, toasty wood, vivacious, with fruit until the finish. Le Point, Bordeaux 2002,  May 2003. (France)

Treytins Montagne Saint-Emilion 2002. Intense, floral nose. Flavorful, satiny, with light, round tannins, a warm finish. Le Point, Bordeaux 2002, May 2003. (France)

Treytins 2000, Asian cuisine and red wine ?. … To get you closer to the power of Bordeaux without destroying your wine, you can go for a Merlot-based wine, such as the Château Treytins Lalande de Pomerol 2000. This full, spherical red is all you could wish for. La Presse de Montréal, François Chartier, April 26, 2003, (Canada) 

The 2000 vintage was an exceptional vintage for Bordeaux. Here’s yet another example, the Garraud Lalande de Pomerol ***(*) a richly colored bouquet, still solid, revealing discrete notes of coconut shell, full bodied and muscular, quite plump, more powerful than fine, but with such generosity and fruity taste that you can only be won over. And it will hold the road. La Presse de Montréal, April 21, 2003, Canada)

Before getting to the new arrivals, I’d like to leave you with this very good Bordeaux called Treytins 2000 Lalande de Pomerol ***. Attractive open nose with mushroom, earth, not very full bodied in the mouth, supple on the palate, well designed, you could say even stylish; a Bordeaux that’s well balanced now, but one that will also be able to wait two or three more years. Le Journal de Montral, Claude Langlois, April 2, 2003, (Canada)

l’Ancien 1999. Very colored, yet slightly transparent. Made with 100% Merlot matured in new oak, this is a Bordeaux with a bouquet marked by wood, toasty nuances, ripe black fruit, and good depth. In the mouth it is fleshy, relatively full bodied and bright, with noble, tender tannins and pastry-like aromas in the aftertaste (the wood). In other words, a modern-styled Bordeaux, worked (as they say), with very present wood, yet delectable at the same time. La Presse de Montréal, 8 March 2003. (Canada)

The price and the quality are rising on the way to Lalande de Pomerol l’Ancien 1999 ***(*) a superb wine. Very colored yet slightly transparent and made with 100% Merlot, matured in new barrels. It’s a Bordeaux that is very marked by the wood, with notes of toast, very ripe black fruit, good depth. The mouth follows, quite fleshy, relatively full bodied, brilliant, with noble, tender tannins, and aromas of pastry in the aftertaste (the wood). In other words, what we have here is a modern Bordeaux, worked (as they say), with very present wood, delectable at the same time. Three stars? Three and a half stars? Or four stars, which would mean that it was a great wine? Answer: three and a half stars. La Presse de Montréal, Jacques Benoît,  March 8,  2003. (Canada)

Garraud 2000 Lalande de Pomerol *** ½ . A generous, full wine that displays a slightly awkward quality due to its youth. Ripe, warm and spicey with flavors of prune, it is full and vigorous in the mouth, with very well-integrated silky tannins. The finish is warm and chocolaty with good length. It needs time to find the right dimentions, but the potential is definitely there. Drink it from 2004 to 2010.  Ledegustateur.com, Mars 2003, Web (Canada)

Wines of the Week. Red first. From Lalande de Pomerol : Treytins 2000 **½, very pure fruity stuff. Garraud 2000 ***½ with smooth, fruity tannins, tight and finely wooded. Château l’Ancien 1999 ****, a magnificent homage to Merlot, structured and velvety, yet still somewhat reserved. Le Devoir, Jean Aubry, February 14, 2003, (Canada)

l’Ancien 2000 **** a magnificent homage to Merlot, structured and velvety, yet still reserved. Le Devoir, Montréal, 14 February 2003. (Canada)

Treytins Lalande de Pomerol 2000 **½. Exceedingly pure fruity stuff. Le Devoir, Montréal, 14 February 2003 (Canada)

Garraud 2000 **½ Tannins are fruity, smooth, tightly-knit, finely wooded. Le Devoir, Montréal, 14 February 2003 (Canada)

Treytins 1999 Lalande de Pomerol **½. Very lovely Merlot nose with notes of mushroom, smoke and licorice. Quite full bodied in the mouth, the tannins are firm but well enveloped by the fruit. The flavors are a bit smoky and the ensemble is refreshing. The wine has a certain pronounced hardness that two years of cellaring should erase. If you’d like to drink it now, decant the wine a good hour before serving it. Le Journal de Québec, Claude Langlois, January 11, 2003, (Canada).

Garraud 1999 ** - This vineyard, remarkably located on clay-gravel soil, is planted with 91% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Sauvignon.  Created in the 19th century, the domain has been considerably modernized from the vineyard to the cellar.  The quality of the vintages is there to prove it.  The 1999 is garnet colored with deep black highlights, revealing notes of ripe red and black fruit that intermingle with toasty vanilla aromas.  The tannins, dense and very velvety, evolve with plenty of volume and harmony without excess extraction.  A great wine that needs eight years. Le Guide Hachette des Vins 2003. (France)

Garraud (Lalande de Pomerol). Pomerol is the only major appellation in Bordeaux that is not classified. This hasn’t stopped a hierarchy from being established. Vineyards to follow … Garraud (Lalande de Pomerol) … La Revue du Vin de France, Hors série, Pomerol, Les crus les plus importants. Hors Série 2003. (France)

Garraud 1999 ****. 86/100. Saturated colour with garnet highlights. The nose displays seductive aromas of ripe red and black fruit, a touch of liquorice and fresh earth in the background. Beautiful mouthfeel, polished and well-integrated with harmony. A 1999 success. Guide Gilbert et Gaillard des Vins 1993 (France)

Treytins Lalande de Pomerol 1999. A beautiful nose of red and black fruit dominated by blackcurrant characterizes this wine. In the mouth it is full, fleshy and charming with beautiful, quality tannins. A pleasant wine. Guide Gerbelle & Maurange 2003 (France).

Treytins 1999 -  Located on a gravelly hillside, the château deserves to be cited for its wine that is already very open:  the bouquet of ripe fruit is in harmony with the notes of vanilla from the barrel, as well as with the powerful, racy, balanced tannins.  A wine to appreciate in two or three years. Le Guide Hachette des Vins 2003. (France).

Garraud 1999 Lalande de Pomerol *** - *** ½. Saturated ruby in color, the nose is open, fruity and ripe, slightly floral, with pleasant notes of plum. Discreet oak brings a palate of empyreumatic notes combining nuances of molasses with a more afirmed roasted character as the wine opens up.  Supple in the mouth, medium bodied with generous ripe fruit.  Good concentration but, alas, not long enough on the finish. A pleasurable wine that is reminiscent at times of the best vintages of Rolland de By, but less lingering on the palate.  Though it will certainly hold its own for some years, it can be enjoyed now. Ledegustateur.com, Novembre 2002, Web (Canada)

Those of you who enjoy Bordeaux red made with plenty of Merlot must try this attractive Garraud Lalande de Pomerol 1999 ***(*). Purplish and richly colored, its bouquet is heavy with very ripe Merlot, the aromas of which are reminiscent of black fruit in eau-de-vie, but also violets … and Rhone Valley Grenache, very ripe as well. Relatively full bodied, its beautiful flavors of black fruit are brilliant, and its tannins are tender, the whole – although it does not have the class of the best Pomerols – reminds you of the much more expensive wines from the Pomerol appellation. Delectable. La Presse, Jacques Benoît, Hors des sentiers battus. October 26, 2002. (Canada).  

Treytins 1998, Lalande de Pomerol *** - Fragrant and elegant with its floral and spicy register coiled around abundant, yet fine, textured ripe tannins. Long fresh finish where the Merlot dominates with assurance and plenitude. Succulent. Le Devoir, Selections of the Week, August 23, 2002. (Canada)

Garraud 1998 **** -  This pleasant wine has a classic form without putting on airs, supple and well nourished by the generosity of the 1998 vintage.  Well proportioned with great freshness in the mouth.  It didn’t steal its gold medal at the general agricultural competition.  Suppleness and overall harmony make it already very pleasant, but it could still benefit from at least a dozen years.  La Fine Goutte, La lettre de Michel Phaneuf, N° 198, July 2002. (Canada)

Garraud 2001- Complex nose with mineral and tobacco notes that combine with fruity aromas.  In the mouth, its fruit and fresh finish are to be appreciated. La Revue du Vin de France, The best bottles of vintage 2001, June 2002. (France)

l'Ancien 1998 - Very deep ruby-purple colour with an attractive nose of black currants with touches of licorice, toast and ham. A nicely balanced wine that was the most Californian in style of all the wine tested..*** going perhaps to ****. The Gazette, Montreal, Malcolm Anderson, June 15, 2002. (Canada)

Treytins Lalande de Pomerol, 1998 - Black-currant fruit and quite meaty on the nose with lovely black and red currants on the palate. the tannins were a tad dry, but this is a wine that will age well.***½ probably going to ****. The Gazette, Montreal, Malcolm Anderson, June 15, 2002. (Canada)

Garraud 2001 - Quite a serious wine with ripe fruit, firm tannic structure and good length. Ready 2004-2008. Decanter, June 2002, (UK)

Garraud 1998 ***½ - Good values like this Bordeaux are hard to find here.  With generous savors and a silky structure, this is a suave, generous Bordeaux that expresses all the charm of Merlot in a register with more finesse than power.  Truly irresistible.  The only problem is that it sells rapidly and is getting more difficult to find. Le Journal de Montréal, Claude Langlois, April 13, 2002. (Canada)

Garraud 1998 ***½ - Once again, very classic in tone, taste and style.  Red colored with notes of resin, cedar and smoke, of which the fruity grain furnishes the palate with freshness and discretion.  Appreciable length. L'actualité Médicale, L'esprit du vin, April 17, 2002. (Canada) Garraud 1998 - Almost entirely Merlot based, the vines are grown on a variety of soils ranging from deep clay to pure gravel as well as clay-gravel and clay-sand enhancing the complexity of the wine. Toasty sweet oak and concentrated perfumed fruit nose. Very young, tight, ripe fruit palate with good integration and depth. Decanter, April 2002, (UK)

Garraud 1998 ***(*) - Very, very good.  The color of this very young wine is superb, just limpid enough.  It is a great vintage for this part of the Bordeaux region, as evidenced by the nose.  In the mouth, it is ripe, generous, displaying a combination of red and black fruit scents. This wine possesses body, with lovely, ripe flavors.  The tannins are round and fat.  Perfectly balanced, with good length. La Presse de Montréal, March 30, 2002. Jacques Benoit. (Canada)

Garraud 1998 *** ½ - Once again, very classic in tone, taste and style.  Red-colored, with notes of resin, cedar and smoke.  A touch of fruit offers the palate freshness and discretion.  Appreciable length. Le Devoir de Montréal, Selections of the week, Jean Aubry, March 29, 2002. (Canada)

Garraud 2001 -  Among the 10 wines I would seriously consider buying as futures (89-91). Intense tar and tobacco aromas, with hints of ripe fruit. Full – to medium - bodied, with very fine tannins. Better than many Pomerols. I don’t know a thing about it, but it’s seriously good. Almost 92-94. Wine Spectator, James Suckling’s  Daily Reports, March 27, 2002, (USA)

 l’Ancien 2001 - Range 85-88. This red shows chewy tannins and a good level of berry and tobacco character. Medium-bodied. Medium finish. Close to the 89-91 range. Wine Spectator, James Suckling’s  Daily Reports, March 27, 2002, (USA)

Treytins Montagne Saint-Emilion , 2001 - Range 80-84. A cool and grapey red, with fine tannins and good fruit. Medium bodied, with fresh, long finish. Wine Spectator, James Suckling’s  Daily Reports, March 27, 2002, (USA)

l’Ancien 1998 - This is crafted from 100% Merlot vines grown on deep gravel and clay-gravel soils. Very toasty, new oak perfume and cherry fruit on the nose. The palate has some farmyardy elements alongside a cedar character, high grainy tannins and acidity. Good depth of character and long length. Decanter, March 2002, (UK)

l’Ancien 1998 - 100% Merlot produced from 3 hectares of old vines, this Lalande de Pomerol obviously has great ambitions.  The color is saturated without being opaque, and the bouquet is a tease (this is not a defect!).  It is dense, rich, dominated by notes of dried black fruit accompanying the toasty oakiness.  This wine is mellow and plump, with handsome, tender, fat tannins in the mouth.  A delightful, very modern wine ***(*). La Presse de Montréal, February 9,  2002. (Canada)

l’Ancien 1998 - A superb wine.  The old vine Merlot has the pleasure of rubbing shoulders (with the best intentions in the world) with a new barrel of the highest lineage.   This mellow wine possesses a rich, youthful color and ripe, fruity tannins with abundant spices, all coiled around a fresh, eloquent, well-built frame.  The people at Château Garraud haven’t skimped.  The result :  great class ****. Le Devoir de Montréal, February 1st, 2002. (Canada)

Treytins, Lalande de Pomerol 1999 *** - Beautiful nose of very ripe red and black fruit, dominated by blackcurrant.  The mouth is ample, fleshy, charming, and offers good quality tannins.  Promising future for this pleasant wine. La revue du Vin de France, Vintage 1999, February 2002. (France)

l’Ancien 1999 ***(*) - Very dense purple color.  Attractive, intense, ripe nose, with nuances of licorice-scented smoky oak.  In the mouth, this straightforward, well-built wine is massive, fleshy, vigorous, and dense. La revue du Vin de France, Vintage 1999, February 2002. (France)

Garraud 1999 **** - For this vintage, it plays more in the register of elegance than power, in contrast to its usual style.  We particularly like the generous freshness of the fruit, the fine tannins and the lingering aromatics. La revue du Vin de France, Vintage 1999, February 2002. (France)

Treytins Lalande de Pomerol 1999 *** - Beautiful nose of very ripe red and black fruit, dominated by blackcurrant.  The mouth is ample, fleshy, charming, and offers good quality tannins.  Promising future for this pleasant wine. La Revue du Vin de France, Vintage 1999, February 2002. (France)

Treytins 1997 ***, This red wine is one of the rare godsends of the Libourne region for less than $20 ….Dark garnet-colored, with beautiful aromatic complexity in the nose (black cherry, toast, dried tomato, red pepper, sage and cedar). The entry on the palate displays fruitiness extracted with measure, tight, slightly firm tannins, and mellowness in the background. Drink from 2004 to 2010. Les sélections du sommelier, François Chartier, 2002 Edition (Canada)

Garraud 1997 *** - Very good 1997, showing no leanness.  Flavorful fruit and overall balance.  A little firm on the finish, yet ripe and satisfying.  Well done. La Fine Goutte, Michel Phaneuf, November 2001, (Canada)

Treytins 1999, Montagne Saint Emilion. Spicy oak and blackberries on the nose followed by firm tannins and a long fruity finish. Wine Magazine, International Wine Challenge issue, November 2001, (UK)

Treytins 1999 Lalande de Pomerol,  Silver Medal International Wine Challenge.. Ripe, few oak flavors blend seamlessly with meaty, full-bodied fruit. Has complex developing characters and is an intense, concentrated mouthful. Wine Magazine, International Wine Challenge issue, November 2001, (UK)

Garraud 1997 - Despite the vintage, this is a Bordeaux with ripe fruit.  It is well-endowed, yet not too deep on the palate, lively and energetic, with slightly mush roomy flavors. Le Journal de Montréal, October 13, 2001, (Canada)

In the same vein as the Bordeaux 1997, look for Garraud Lalande de Pomerol, with absolute velvetiness and persistent flavors ***½, and Treytins 1997 ***.  L’Actualité Médicale, L’Esprit du Vin, October 3,  2001, (Canada)

Garraud 2000 - Very dense purple color, expressive, powerful nose, with attractive fruity and floral aromas, this handsome Lalande is dense in the mouth, concentrated and endowed with solid tannins.  La Revue du Vin de France, June 2001, (France)

Garraud 2000 *** - Best 2000 wines tasted. Vins Magazine Gilbert & Gaillard, June 2001, (France)

Garraud 1997 - Like always, fullness, maturity and, above all, tender tannins.  The 1998 is a real blockbuster.  *** ½. Le Devoir de Montréal, May 14, 2001, (Canada)

Garraud 2000 - 14.5/20 Expressive nose, vivacity. Tender and lush in the mouth, chocolaty finish. Optimum 2004, keep 8 years. Le Point, 2000 Vintage, Pomerol, Lalande de Pomerol, May 3,  2001, (France)

Treytins Lalande de Pomerol 1997. - Four or five years from now it will have reached its peak.  But even now it is enchanting, by virtue of its fruity, fresh nose and the sweetness on the palate thanks to the quality of its tannins.  To compare Garraud and Treytins would be in vain!  Brothers don’t have to be twins.  However, a remarkable complementarily links them.  As for Château Garraud, silence and meditation.  To classify, beyond the shadow of a doubt, in the “very good, not expensive” category….  Admirable balance, dominated by mellow, smooth black fruit, as profound as the key of A minor, standard bearer of the Lalande de Pomerol appellation.  Le Soleil, La Bonne Table, Montréal, March 2001, (Canada)

Garraud 2000 ***(*) - Classification of the European Grand Jury 2001.

Garraud ***(*) - A complex 1997.  Beautiful, saturated garnet color.  Expressive nose of sweet spices, ripe black fruit, vanilla-infused oak.  The entry on the palate is supple, round, emphasizing the fruit.  Good balance between the woody and spicy aromas.  Plenty of fat in the finish.  Attractive wine. Guide Gilbert et Gaillard 2001, (France)

Garraud 1997 - This property has modernized over time and now employs techniques to improve quality in the vineyard as well as the cellar.  The 1997 is the proof.  A dark, dense color is followed by powerful, elegant aromas of very ripe red fruit (raspberries, blackcurrants), tobacco, vanilla.  The fleshy, fine tannins develop with suaveness, harmony and persistence.  This wine has what it takes to seduce wine lovers in the coming three to eight years.  An example for the vintage. Guide Hachette 2001, (France)

Garraud shows what heights the appellation can reach if yields are controlled and the necessary equipment is used to sort the grapes and control the vinification.  These wines of consistent quality are colored, fat, and powerful with no aggressiveness.  1998 ***, 1997 ****, 1996 ***, 1995 ****, 1994 ****, 1993 ***. Bettane & Desseauve, 2001 Classification of the wines and domains of France (France)

l’Ancien 1998. Silver Medial International Wine Challenge 2000. Dense blackcurrant and tobacco aromas precede well-integrated flavors of dark chocolate-dipped plums balanced with smooth tannins. A wine to look after for a few years. Wine, International Wine Challenge issue, November 2000 (UK)

Garraud 1998, Bronze Medal, International Wine Challenge 2000. This red shows a lovely intensity of blackcurrants with mocha notes. Soft and rich … a pleasurable wine. Wine, International Wine Challenge issue, November 2000 (UK)

Garraud 1996 - 14.0/20 (tasting note), 15.5/20 (aging potential). Moderately expressive, the nose has aromas of red fruits, smoke, licorice, vanilla, and oak.  The palate is straightforward and supple, with good concentration and acidity, supple tannins, and a finish that lingers nicely. Tasting panel's opinion: "Beautiful Lalande-de-Pomerol, drink now or keep" 60 Millions de Consommateurs, October-November 2000,  (France)

Garraud 1998, quotation 16 - Black garnet, spicy nose, fullness on the palate, rich, good concentration but a little rustic, dense, tight finish. Somewhat severe overall, but promising.  Le Point, Spécial vins, September 8,  2000, (France)

Garraud 1996, quotation 15 - Black garnet, spices, cherry, with smooth, round tannins, note of thyme, good fruit, elegant and gourmand. Le Point, Spécial vins, September 8, 2000, (France)

Garraud 1994, quotation 16 - Nose of violets and spices, palate is fat with rich tannins, long and solid, well structured. Classy. Le Point, Spécial vins, September 8, 2000, (France)

Garraud 1996 ***½ - In the vast range of satellite appellations "orbiting" to the east of the Dordogne, Lalande-de-Pomerol and, in its midst, Château Garraud, are to be explored for their ability to dethrone a good number of cru bourgeois lazing about to the west of the Gironde.  We are talking serious stuff here: great finesse, but especially a resolutely "earthling" presence, revealing the Merlot (seconded by Cabernet) in all the detail that this splendid terroir is capable of. Attractive saturated ruby-garnet with a distinguished aromatic profile suggesting rose, blackcurrant and toasty spices, nicely assembled without any harshness.  Firm, velvety fruitiness, long and well defined.  A beautiful wine for long keeping but also a beautiful wine for the evening and rich conversations. Château Garraud 1995 - A beautiful object of desire if not greed. Le Devoir, Wine-pleasure, July 28, 2000, (Canada)

Garraud 1999 - This wine reveals an aniseed nose, firm body with a condensed texture, and spice-infused oak. Beautiful with a perfectly mastered modern style, it is made for long aging.  La Revue du Vin de France, Bordeaux  Millésime 99,  June 2000, (France)

l’Ancien 1999 - We liked it.  Smoky oak, tightly-knit texture, tannins still stiff, yet there is plenty of character and promise:  this wine will keep for a long time.  La Revue du Vin de France, June 2000, (France)

Treytins Montagne Saint-Emilion 1999 - Unctuous truffle and affirmed terroir mark the nose of this tight, serious wine that promises long keeping.  La Revue du Vin de France, June 2000, (France)

Garraud 1999 - We liked it.  The wine possesses an anise-scented nose, firm body, a tightly-knit texture, and spicy oak.  This beautiful, perfectly mastered modern wine is made for cellaring. La Revue du Vin de France, June 2000, (France)

Garraud 1999, 15/20 - Dark garnet. The nose is well-opened, suave, rich, gourmand, supple. Already very good.  Le Point, Les Grands Bordeaux 1999,  May 5, 2000, (France)

Garraud 1995 ****(*). The splendid color goes all the way to the edge of the glass. The roasted nose displays substantial oak and impressive empyreumatic nuances. The full palate reveals complex tannins, a great terroir and plenty of aromatic savors. Remarkable.  La Revue du Vin de France, Spécial Libournais Saint-Emilion Pomerol, May 2000, (France)

Garraud. One of our favorites, is a large estate. which possesses very old vines and regularly produces an elegant, fine wine. Valeurs Actuelles, Lalande de Pomerol.  A l’ombre des géants, January 8,  2000, (France)

Garraud 98. A sure value from the appellation: the nose is powerful and smooth, with a flashy, charming, balanced palate. 17/20. Guide Hubert 2000-2001, (France)

Garraud 1995 **** - After a very good 1993 sold last year, this Lalande de Pomerol property is pursuing its quest for quality with a very good 1995, benefiting from the generosity of the vintage.  Very open, round and juicy, supported by silky tannins, with a notion of firmness in the finish adding liveliness.  Naturally supple, it already makes for pleasant drinking. Le Guide du Vin 2000, Michel Phaneuf, (Canada)

Garraud 1996 - Created in the 19^th century, this château produced a pleasant 1996 with delicate aromas of strawberry, vanilla and toast, marked by a supple, deep tannic structure, evolving towards a certain austerity.  This wine should find its harmony after two or three years of aging in a good cellar. Guide Hachette 2000, (France)

Garraud *** - A beautiful deep, young color precedes an animal, roasted nose accompanied by quality oak.  In the mouth, it is fat and fruity, even opulent.  This pleasant wine possesses staying power and will keep for a few years.  La Revue du Vin de France, Les meilleurs crus des millésimes 1995 - 1997 - 1998, (France)

Garraud 1995 is another excellent buy.  It is still young, but the nose already reveals a certain complexity (cherry, mushroom, leather, red meat…).  The mouth possesses vitality and body, the tannins are firm, and there is enough concentration to mellow it all.  The delicious flavors of Merlot can already be appreciated. Le Journal de Montréal, December 31, 1999 (Canada)

Garraud ***(*) - This very dark garnet-colored wine displays a slightly orange rim.  The nose is still reserved, but seems rich, dense and deep.  The oak is omnipresent for the moment, but the intense fragrances of black cherry, cacao, and humus could easily take the forefront in a few years.  The attack is fleshy, ample and tannic.  Absolutely classic for Merlot on clay soil.  A generous wine with almost velvety tannins, yet tightly-knit.  The chewy finish offers persistent flavors of coffee, vanilla and mint.  It will peak in four to six years and will last for a decade.  Le Tastevin de Montréal, December 1999, (Canada)

Garraud 1996 will surely become a regular of this column and those of some of my peers in Montréal. The reason? It keeps getting better year after year. It’s true that the 95 was better than the 94, but it was already a little superior to most of the 1994 Lalandes that came to Quebec. It is also a well-made vintage that the talents of the French flying winemaker, Michel Rolland, are expressed. Now that deserves a great deal of respect. The powerful, noble aromas of mushroom, dried herbs and black fruits proclaim a style that is clearly French, and Bordelais to boot. The palate is very condensed and smooth with a notable fruit, all elegantly displayed with beautiful length. It’s like a voyage through the ages, through the evolution of all the winemaking techniques leading to a sort of archetype. The Garraud 1995 is one. Le Nouvelliste, Découvertes récentes, October 2,  1999, (Canada)

Garraud - Color, aromatic density, beginning to show complexity, tightly-knit velvety texture, persistence.  Low yield in a very good vintage:  the result speaks for itself.  Le Devoir de Montréal, September 30, 1999, (Canada)

Garraud 1995 is unquestionably the star of the vintage in this appellation.  Beautiful, saturated red with an orange-tinged rim, complex fragrances of red rose, undergrowth, cedar, and black fruit.  Full-bodied, ample, very ripe, and tightly-knit overall, with a balsamic fragrance in the long finish.  A rising value  ***(+)*.  L’Actualité Medicale de Montréal, L’esprit du Vin, Jean Aubry, September 1999, (Canada)

Garraud 1998 - The nose is deep and subtle, with notes of rose and violet. The palate exhibits a beautiful texture. La Revue du Vin de France, Spécial Millésime 98, June 1999 (France)

Garraud 1997 - Very good color. Good rich nose. Has depth and substance. Good tannins here. Good grip too. This has plenty of personality and attractive fruit. Long and complex and stylist. Very good plus for what it is. From  2004. The Wine, N° 173, Cleve Coats, June 99 (UK)

l’Ancien 1998 - Very good color. Rich, succulent nose. Fullish, very good ripe tannins. Lovely fruit. Splendid balance. Long, complex and succulent. One of the very best of the testing. Lovely. From 2005. The Wine, Cleve Coats, N° 173, June 99 (UK)

Garraud 1995 - Decanter Award. Lovely, rich, velvety texture and a firm finish. This has a real style. (DP). Vanilla and oak on the nose. Bags of tannins on the palate, with fruit and flesh behind them. Long on the finish. (MB). Decanter, Lalande de Pomerol 1995 - February 1999 (UK). Decanter, Lalande de Pomerol 1995 - February 1999 (UK)

Garraud shows the level that can be obtained if the yield is controlled and the necessary effort are made to use the appropriate equipment for sorting out the grapes and controlling the vinification. The wines are colorful, rich and powerful without any aggressiveness and are of constant quality. Bettane & Desseauve, Classement 1999 des vins et domaines de France, (France)

Garraud 1995 - A full, elegant Lalande de Pomerol that will be approachable in two years and that should develop tertiary aromas in 8 years. 16/20. Guide des Vins des Sommeliers 1999, (France)

Garraud - Exemplary work in the vineyard (controlled yields, sorting of the harvest), subtle vinification by parcel, and partial maturing in barrel: this property is taking giant steps.  It is one of the rare in the appellation to offer older vintages:  in particular the 1994 and the 1993 for those who appreciate older, straightforward wines.  But we prefer the recent vintages.  They have clearly taken on finesse and fat, while keeping the style of tannic wines that don’t mince their words.  The 1995 is colored, with penetrating fruit.  It is headed in the right direction. In the mouth, this wine is a bit reluctant (still playing the prude), but there is no mistaking the density and the quality of the tannins.  Guide des Vins de Charme 1999, (France)  

Garraud 1995 - 18/20.  A sure value!  The nose is pure and racy with attractive, powerful aromas of black fruit and noble oak.  The palate is also powerful and dense.  The ripe tannins are present, and the length is completely satisfying.  The 1996 is just as classic and successful, with some good years ahead. Guide Hubert 1999, (France)

Garraud 1999, 15 -. Dark garnet with an expressive nose.  This wine is suave, rich, gourmand, supple.  Already very good.  Le Point, Bordeaux Millésime 1999, (France)

Garraud 1994 - The nose is very Merlot (mushroom), the palate is supple, consistent yet not very concentrated, balanced and delicious. Le Journal de Montréal, December 19, 1998, (Canada)

Garraud 1995 - Garraud is one of the appellation’s elite.  The technical means to reduce yields, control and sort result in a firm wine with a fruity, roasted nose that is warm and discretely oaked.  The delicious palate touches down on an ample finish. Cuisine et Vins de France, September-October 1998, (France)

Garraud 1996 - 16/20. One of our favorites. Beautiful garnet/ruby color, with ripe red fruits, vanilla, spices and elder on the nose. Exceedingly rich, full, dense, fleshy, and mellow with fruits on the finish. Gault Millau, September 1998, (France)

Garraud 1997 - Constant and well done as usual, more elegant than powerful, it offers a ripe, mellow nose of black fruits, a equally mellow palate, velvety and harmonious, with a well executed oak. La Revue du Vin de France, Spécial Millésime 97, June 1998, (France)

Garraud 1997 - 16/20, Ripe, cherry jelly, red rose. Tender, silky palate, condensed but without any harshness, quite fine. La Cote des Vins Gault Millau, May 26, 1998, (France)

Garraud 1995. Outstanding. Decadently delectable, with chunky crushed black-cherry and raspberry flavors on the palate, this wine is punctuated by exotic hint of mocha and tar, and by expressive aromas of currants, blackberries and vanilla. Best after 2000, but the pure opulence of fruit and velvety tannins call for drinking a few bottles with all deliberate speed. The Washington Post, Ben Giliberti, April 22, 1998 (USA)

Garraud 1995 - With Bordeaux prices exploding into the stratosphere, buying the big names now requires an inherence rather than a tax refund. This bottle will help you forget the Margaux's and Lafites with its wonderful combination of rich, expressive fruit …. Outstanding balance and structure. The Washington Post, April 15, 1998, (USA)

Garraud 1995 – Deep ruby color.  Vanilla-infused nose with plenty of promise.  The palate is eloquent, racy, seductive, and tender all at once.  That takes some doing!…The mid-palate is slightly toasty.  Excellent taste, with a dominant note of licorice.  The ample finish is focused, potentially magnificent, with oak on its way to integrating. Marvelous. Revue Belge des Vins, January-February 1998, (Belgium)

Garraud 1996 - Remarkable elegance and harmony, this wine develops beautiful vanilla-scented fruit, and offers fine tannins.  La Revue du Vin de France, Spécial Millésime 96, June 1997, (France)

Garraud 1996 : 80-82/100. Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, April 1997, (USA)

Garraud 1995 - Highly Recommended. Deep color. Balanced fruit and good concentration on the nose. Firm tannins and good fruit on the palate but needs time. (VB), Decanter, January 1997, (UK)

Lalande de Pomerol produces supple wines with a precocious bouquet.  However, they have a bothersome tendency to become diluted if the vine yield is too high.  Garraud shows what heights the appellation can reach if the yields are controlled and the effort is made to use the necessary equipment to sort the grapes and control the vinification.  These wines of consistent quality are colored, fat, and powerful, with no aggressiveness. Château Garraud 1994 ****, 1993 ****, 1990 *** and 1989 ***.  Bettane & Desseauve, Le Classement 1997 des vins et domaines de France, (France)

Garraud 1993 ***^> - This very good 1993 didn’t steal its gold medal at the agriculture competition in Paris.  A serious wine, rich in tannins and concentration, obviously the result of low yields and a strict selection.  Built solidly, it promises to last a long time.  Better let it mature a few years.  Attractive wine at a reasonable price.  Le Guide du Vin 97, Michel Phaneuf, (Canada)

Garraud. ***(*) - Very lovely, youthful color, aromas of cedar and tobacco, still restrained, firm palate, structured, tightly-knit texture, vigorous and elegant.  Wait four to five years.  Le Journal de Montréal, November 2, 1996, (Canada)

Fortunately, all the owners in Bordeaux haven’t completely lost their minds yet.  The proof is the Lalande de Pomerol Garraud 1993, considered as one of the best wines of this appellation neighboring Pomerol, and sold at a reasonable price.  The wine is still very young, very colored with a bouquet that is still monolithic, compact, dense, concentrated in the mouth, more powerful than fine, yet perfectly delicious.  It can be drunk now while it is fruity or cellared for five-six years at least.  Impressive.  ***(*).  La Presse, Montréal, October 19,  1996, (Canada)

Garraud - The nose of this 1990 is slightly wild and animal.  In the mouth, it is very complex, fruity, powerful, and fat, very representative of the vintage.  It is followed by a delicate 1992, pleasant drinking today, with cherry and chocolate flavors.  We gave the 1993 17.5/20.  Blueberry jelly, violet, blackberry in the nose, fat, rich, thick tannins, plenty of extraction.  The palate still has not mellowed.  Good balance for this long-keeping wine.  Reasonable price.  Gault Millau, Special Vins, September 1996. (France)

Garraud 1995 - Lots of harmony and maturity on the nose (black fruits, eucalyptus, liquorice, fine oak), velvety structure, silky tannins, dense body, a racy success. La Revue du Vin de France, Spécial Millésime 95 - June 1996, (France)

Garraud.  A sure value ****.  These wines know how to harmonize finesse and power.  1995 :  Concentrated and silky, a very persistent wine. 1994 :  Still troubled by the fining, but with well-affirmed finesse in the nose and palate. 1990 :  Still restrained, the nose is clean and pure, the palate is ample and elegant (red fruit and fresh mushroom).  Noticeable concentration, yet very fine tannins, plenty of flesh around the structure, and very smooth oak.  A very long wine with persistent fruit, it is still very young and very fresh.  Splendid.  La Revue du Vin de France, May 1996, (France)

Garraud 1996 - 15.5/20.  Appearance: black garnet.  Nose: red fruit, fine.  Taste:  dense and smooth, not too lively, but plenty of round flavors, scrumptious. La Cote des vins Gault & Millau, Bordeaux Special Millesime 96, (France)

Garraud - The new generation responsible for the management of this outstanding property has taken all possible steps to express the potential of the terroir: strictly controlled yields, sorting out of the grapes, temperature-controlled vats, high quality barrels. The results are spectacular with wines that are dark, fleshy, with intense aromas of blueberry and mushroom, with a bouquet of aniseed liquorice resulting from perfectly condensed tannins. Bravo ! La Revue du Vin de France, November 1995, (France)

Garraud 1994 - The owners have invested a lot to make Garraud one of the leaders of the appellation.  Blueberry jelly, violet, blackberry in the nose, fat, rich, thick tannins, plenty of extraction.  The palate still has not mellowed.  Good balance for this long-keeping wine. Gault Millau, Special Vins, September 1995, (France)

Garraud 1994 - An attractive, racy wine, concentrated and complex with a subtle nose and an ample entry, silky, tightly-knit.  Elegant and profound, it will evolve very well. La Revue du Vin de France, Vintage 94,  June 1995, (France)

Garraud 1994, 17/20 - Color: dark garnet-red. Nose: raspberry, blackberry, and young lather. Palate: rich, nicely rounded, condensed, unctuous tannins, oak and violet flavor, delicate long finish, beautiful fruit. Gault Millau, La Cote des Vins - Spécial Bordeaux - Millésime 1994 (France)