Tasting Notes
Antonio Galloni 90
The 2019 d’Armailhac is bright, punchy and full of character. The purity of the flavors is just striking. Sweet red cherry, white pepper, mint and citrus notes lend energy. In the glass, 2019 d’Armailhac sizzles with tension. If I didn’t know this was from a warm year, I would never guess it. D’Armailhac is super classy in 2019. This is the last vintage made in the old cellars. Among other things, the new facility contains 50 fermentation tanks as opposed to the 22 in the current winery. The move towards smaller tanks and the ensuing precision that can be taken in the field is one of the major quality improvements in Bordeaux over the last generation. It will certainly be interesting to see what happens here.
Neal Martin 93
The 2019 d’Armailhac was the last vintage made in the old winery that has since been demolished to make way for a new gravity-fed facility that will be equipped with 50 smaller vats tailored to the parcels in the vineyard. It will provide greater space that will permit longer élevage if desired. It is fascinating to juxtapose again its Clerc Milon stablemate. There is more amplitude on the nose, it is more forthright with blackberry, wild hedgerow, tobacco and a subtle leather aroma. It comes across less high-toned than previous vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannins and slightly more mid-palate depth/grip than the Clerc Milon. The crescendo here is wonderful, fanning out towards the finish with subtle black pepper, sage and mint notes. This is a delicious d’Armailhac in the making.
Anticipated maturity: 2024-2048
Wine Advocate 93
More classically proportioned than the exuberant 2018, the 2019 D’Armailhac wafts from the glass with aromas of violets, blackberries and cassis complemented by subtle hints of licorice, sweet soil tones and warm spices. Medium to full-bodied, velvety and perfumed, it’s fleshy and enveloping, with an ample core of succulent fruit and beautifully polished, powdery tannins.
Anticipated maturity: 2025-2050
