(95-97) The combination of the luxuriant velvet texture and the cashmere tannins on the palate is a knock out. The truffle, black raspberry, plum, licorice and cocoa nose is incredibly aromatic. But when you go back for more of those sensuously textured fruits, that is when you know you are squarely in Pomerol.

There’s a slightly smoky edge to the nose with a wealth of ripe dark and red plums, as well as violets, blueberries and wet earth. The palate is very plush and smoothly arranged with a very attractive weave of ripe, supple tannin and a long, fresh and fleshy hold on the finish. The tannins are discreet but deceptively long here. It builds. Try from 2023.

From a slightly larger vineyard covering 46 acres, the 2017 Chateau La Fleur Petrus is a gorgeous wine that stays in the classic style of the vintage yet still packs plenty of oomph and textural richness. Based on 93% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, its deep ruby/purple color is followed by a seamless, medium to full-bodied 2017 that has fantastic cassis and black raspberry fruits, lots of floral and spice nuances, subtle oak, and ripe, present, polished tannins. It doesn't have the opulence of the 2015 and 2016, but it’s about as classy as they come. Four to five years of bottle age should put it in a sweet spot, and it will drink beautifully over the following 20 years.

La Fleur-Petrus 2017 is medium to deep garnet-purple in color. It jogs out with powerful notes of plum pudding, baked blackberries, and smoked meats, plus suggestions of crushed rocks and tapenade. Full-bodied, the palate is bursting with expressive black fruit flavors, supported by ripe, rounded tannins and great tension, finishing long and mineral-laced.

Deep and concentrated in colour and fruit character. This is pretty closed on the nose compared to some and also a little more about texture and less about fruit on the palate. Subtle, comes into its own with time in the glass and a floral character emerges as it opens, even a little sanguine. This is enjoyable and good quality.

(94+ points) A blend of 93% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, the medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2017 la Fleur-Petrus is a little youthfully reticent to begin, opening to offer glimpses at kirsch, black raspberries and warm plums plus nuances of potpourri, powdered cinnamon, dusty soil and dried lavender. Medium-bodied, the palate is finely knit and elegant with a firm frame of grainy tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing long and mineral laced.- LPB

At 46 acres, this is a large property for Pomerol, adjacent to Château Pétrus. This wine has great richness and acidity, conveying power, density and a hint of spice and perfume from the Cabernet Franc in the blend. Drink this wine from 2023. - ROGER VOSS

Ripe and warm in feel, featuring steeped plum, blackberry and fig notes carried by velvety but substantial tannins. Shows good cut, with notes of ganache and black tea driving the finish, ending with a second whoosh of fruit. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2022 through 2038. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. — JM