Professional reviews
Robert Parker (96)
Tasted at the pre-dinner vertical to mark Sylvain Pitiot's retirement from the domaine, the 2008 Clos de Tart Grand Cru has an open and generous bouquet with wild brambly fruit, crushed strawberry, mineral and woodland scents. This is gentler than the 2009 or 2010, more open for business perhaps. The palate is (again) wonderfully balanced with rounded tannin. There is a savory edge here, a slight meatiness developing and a suggestion of Italian cured meats towards the finish, plus a saline edge. It feels satisfyingly long in the mouth with spice notes tingling right on the end of the aftertaste. Do not underestimate this excellent Clos de Tart
Jancis Robinson (19)
Magnum. Very firm and bright and almost Cabernet–like! Burly and autumnal and massively round and plush and full of gorgeousness. Very vital. (JR)
Burghound (96)
Mild but not invisible wood frames very ripe yet cool and airy dark fruit aromas that speak of earth, violets, underbrush and a hint of menthol that leads to reserved, intense and tautly muscular broad-shouldered flavors that are textured, naturally sweet, sappy and concentrated while being supported by a notably firm but not aggressive tannic spine and excellent length on the balanced and palate staining finish. This should require between 15 to 20 years to arrive at its apogee as it's noticeably more structured but unlike some less successful '08s, the phenolics here are quite ripe as the low yields and late picking date are clearly in evidence. This resembles the great 2001 more than a little yet there is even more overall depth of material. In short, this should be truly great in time.
Jasper Morris (94)
Quite deep colour, beginning to mature. It has a great nose, the fruit moving past its first flush, but harmonising with the oak - almost, there is still a touch too much evidence of new wood for my taste. Lifted and lively behind with enough density and good energy. Close to becoming a great drink Tasted Nov 2015.
