Fleur de Gay 2009

As always, there is an elegance to the La Fleur de Gay, but the tell-tale flowery, raspberry jam, and blueberry pie notes jump from the glass along with hints of graphite and truffle. Deep, rich, full-bodied and textured, with sweet tannin and a stunning elegance and purity, this beauty that can be approached now or cellared for 20-25 years. From a property now run completely by Chantal Lebreton since her brother, Dr. Alain Raynaud, sold all his interests, this wine, which boasts Michel Rolland as the consultant, comes from the very choice, 7.5-acre parcels of the larger Le Croix de Gay vineyard. The average age of the vines is 35 years and the blend is relatively simple – 100% Merlot, aged mostly in new oak. The alcohol here is just over 14.5%.

Score: 95

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com 01 March 2012

Phenomenal aromas of crushed raspberries, with flowers and orange flower. Full-bodied, with layers of polished tannins and ripe fruit. Hints of blueberries too. It's so balanced and beautiful. One of the best La Fleur de Gays in years. Best after 2016.

Score: 95

James Suckling, - Maturity: 2016+ 15 February 2012

Tasted three times, the first at lunch with Dr. Alain Reynaud where it was so drinkable I never detected it was a barrel sample, the sample in London did not show as the one at the Cercle Rive Droite. There, the Fleur de Gay had a very pure, lifted bouquet with noticeable vanillary new oak that suffuses the palate and lends it such a seductive, creamy texture. Lush blackberry and cassis with a savoury notes just on the aftertaste. Very fine. Tasted March 2010.

Score: 91 - 93

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com 04 April 2010