The 2013 Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, which as noted at the time of release is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, has a fragrant bouquet that, like the deuxième vin, has a pungent marine influence: seaweed and touches of cockle shell, nicely defined with blackberry and briary emerging more strongly with time. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, crisp acidity with grainy tannin. There is a slight rawness towards the finish that would have been addressed by the addition of Merlot, but there is respectable substance. It falls away quickly towards the finish but otherwise it is balanced and quite a distinctive Pichon Lalande. Drink over the next decade.

A fine and silky red with currant and lemon rind aromas and flavors. Medium bodied with a fresh finish. This shows some depth and interest for the vintage. Drink or hold.

With smoke, spicy cassis and pepper in the nose, the wine feels soft, delicate and forward. Its lack of weight renders it light/medium bodied, while the open, fresh, finish showcases… (full tasting notes on the WCI website).