A polished, fleshy, forward style, with velvety-textured notes of crushed plum, fig sauce and mulled cherry fruit laced with sweet spice and cocoa hints. A licorice edge drives the finish along. (JM)

The second wine of Pichon Baron, the Les Tourelles de Longueville, is the best second effort I have tasted from this estate. An equal part blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine is very seductive, with loads of black fruits, an almost caramelized note, low acidity and voluptuous texture. Endearing and pure, this full-bodied second wine is better than many vintages of the grand vin from the 1940s and 1950s.

The 2009 Les Tourelles de Longueville has a lovely, pure bouquet with joyful red cherry and crushed strawberry aromas. The oak is beautifully integrated. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, and a fine line of acidity. Fleshy and nicely framed with raspberry and blackberry laced with tobacco and a generous sprinkling of cracked black pepper on the finish. Excellent. (NM)