Exotically textured, with a melange of red fruits, licorice, flowers and citrus, the wine has body, length, purity of fruit and complexity. But it is the lush texture that steals the show! This beauty will age for at least 2 decades.

This has the generosity of a Pomerol, displaying airbrushed tannins against juicy, rich blueberry and raspberry Merlot notes, all enveloped in smoky grilled oak. This has cracked the persistency that most 2008s don't have, and there's a lovely flexibility to the tannins - you can bounce against them like a pro-wrestler on the ropes. Notes of fragrant blackberries and dark fruits, almond and black pepper - just really beautiful.

(95+ points) The 2008 Le Pin is a classic that's evolving more slowly than the 2009 or 2010. Unwinding in the glass with a deep and youthfully primary bouquet of dark berries, cherries, exotic spices, vanilla pod and petals, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and vibrant, with a concentrated core of fruit, velvety tannins and a long, penetrating finish. While it can be drunk with pleasure today, it still possesses plenty of upside. - William Kelley

The 2008 Le Pin has a sumptuous bouquet with red cherries, crushed strawberry, truffle, orange rind and light floral scents. It comes across as being fully mature although the palate indicates that it will gift a long drinking window. It offers plenty of raspberry and blackberry fruit, the tannins perhaps a little edgier than other vintages, a touch of graininess towards the fresh, mineral-driven finish. It is not the most voluptuous Le Pin, more reflective of the growing season than the terroir. -- Neal Martin

It seems almost Burgundian in style with delicate and fresh aromas of dried berries such as strawberries and raspberries. Full to medium-body, it shows super fine tannins and a fresh and clean finish. Complex yet very delicate. Better after 2013.

This is all silky and perfumed, with stunningly pretty raspberry, plum and cherry fruit flavors that glide effortlessly over perfumed spice and floral notes. It's almost too easy, but then the latent grip checks in, with black tea, clove and ganache taking over. Beautiful. Drink now through 2020. - JM