Le Pin 2021

Jeb Dunnuck

The 2021 Château Le Pin is the same 100% Merlot, and it was raised in slightly less new oak, spending 18 months in 65% new oak (Seguin Moreaux and Taransaud). It has a deep ruby hue as well and brilliant notes of ripe black cherries, blackberries, candied violets, spice, and kirsch. It's textured, medium to full-bodied, has fine tannins, and a lively spine of acidity and salinity on the finish. It's a gorgeous 2021 to enjoy over the coming two decades.

Tim Atkin

Jane Anson - Inside Bordeaux

Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The 2021 Le Pin has turned out beautifully in bottle, bursting with aromas of raspberries and blackberries mingled with notions of pencil shavings, spices, black truffle and licorice, framed by a discreet touch of new oak (only 55% new this year). Medium to full-bodied, ample and enveloping, it's suave and sensual, with a fleshy core of fruit and beautifully refined tannins and concludes with a long, rose-inflected finish. Le Pin, after all, is an early-ripening, well-drained terroir, so it's hardly surprising that it should perform especially well in a vintage like 2021.

Vinous

The 2021 Le Pin showed impressively from barrel. Now in bottle since the beginning of June 2022, it has evolved since then, developing more depth and delineation. Oddly, you might misconstrue this as containing some Cabernet Franc (though, of course, it is 100% Merlot). The palate is medium-bodied with finely chiseled tannins. It has a wonderful symmetry and, although it declines to fan out on the finish like a top growing season, it is fresh and saline, beckoning you back for another sip. Lovely.

James Suckling

This is really pure and primary with very clean and bright aromas of crushed grapes. Minerally and floral with brightness and vividness. Just a hint of smoke and meat. Medium-bodied with a tight and poised center palate and a racy finish. Structured in a classic, great Bordeaux way. Needs five or six years to come together and soften, but this is seamless and wonderful. Drink after 2030 and beyond.