2006 Chateau Pichon Baron, 2eme Cru, Pauillac

A rather solar expression suffuses the complex nose mingling notes of prunes, spices, and forest floor. This is not the most structured wine of this tasting but it remains a textbook Pichon Baron, as it has the telltale upright style, tension, and freshness, as well as an airborne finish. Superb wine whose complexity and depth sneak up on you. 95 points, Decanter

One of the rare estates where the 2006 is a step above the 2005 – one of those wines that makes doing a vertical so rewarding, as you discover the hidden successes, and this is one I highly recommend. Waves of sweet blackberry and juicy raspberry fruits, toned and muscular tannins, sinewy with bounce, extremely inviting overall. Tobacco leaf and slate, signature Pauillac pencil lead and grilled cedar all combine to give a drawn out finish. The underground cellar opened in this year, so they were able to extend the length of ageing because had more space for the barrels, and it has paid off. 80% new oak. 95 points, Jane Anson (inside Bordeaux)