94
Wine Enthusiast
The renaissance of Kirwan, with the consultancy of Michel Rolland, continues with this ripe, forward, concentrated wine. The tannins are sweet and soft, with a solid, chunky structure that promises a long life. The finish displays balanced new wood flavors and a smooth polish.
93 James Suckling - Jamessuckling.com
"Great nose of dark fruit, fresh tobacco and hints of licorice and cedar. Leather. Full body, extremely fine and polished. Lasts for minutes. Drink now or hold. A wine to enjoy for years ahead."
92 Wine Spectator
A very reserved wine at this stage, but still shows attractive plum and berry character, with hints of mineral. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and very refined tannins. Lasts a long time on the finish. Very, very silky. Best after 2009. 9,580 cases made.
90 Robert Parker - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
"Still somewhat tannic but very much in the style that Kirwan has favored over recent vintages, this is a full-bodied, muscular, powerhouse effort. The wine still has a dense ruby/purple color, with loads of blackberries, cassis, and some noticeable new oak still lingering in the background. Powerful, rich, and full, this wine needs another 2-3 years of cellaring and should age nicely for another 20 years. "
"This great wine is made for cellaring. It is slowly following its evolutionary path. It oscillates between periods of closure and openness during which one discovers a vast aromatic palette filled with a mix of black fruits, the scents of woody underbrush, and hints of minerals. The tannins have a strong presence and the acidity provokes a fresh finish in the mouth. Its anticipated maturity is without a doubt in 15 to 25 years." - Winery