2015 Chateau Croizet-Bages 5eme Cru Classe, Pauillac

Vinous 87

The 2015 Croizet-Bages has a fragrant bouquet of plush red fruit, kirsch and orange peel, all nicely defined; iris and violet scents emerge with time. The palate is medium-bodied with firm, slightly furry tannin, and a little metallic on the midpalate, which impinges upon the slightly bitter finish. Maybe this is going through a sulky phase. A bit muddled but better than previous vintages. Tasted blind at the Southwold 2015 Bordeaux tasting. [Neal Martin, 09/07/2019]

Robert Parker 86

The 2015 Croizet Bages has a rather withdrawn bouquet with tertiary red berry fruit that needs more vigor and delineation. It feels foursquare compared to its peers. The palate is medium-bodied with better weight and fruit concentration than I expected. The oak is neatly integrated and there is an attractive spicy edge on the finish. This Croizet-Bages finishes much better than it starts – let’s hope those aromatics can pull their socks up during élevage. [Neal Martin, 28/09/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2028