Tim Atkin: Lafite and Cheval Blanc are top picks of 2009
Shortly after Robert Parker released his highly-anticipated scores for the 2009 Bordeaux, another highly-regarded writer has issued his own thoughts on the vintage.
Tim Atkin, who writes for the Times and Decanter, as well as running his own wine school at London's Vinoteca, saved his highest praise for the 2009 chateau Lafite and Cheval Blanc, which both received perfect 100-point scores.
The Lafite was described as an "incredible" wine, even considering its young age, exhibiting "black fruits, a hint of liquorice, stylish, elegant tannins" and "beautiful oak handling" - adding that it will likely reach its peak in two decades.
Meanwhile, the Cheval Blanc was "aromatic and floral", featuring "lovely notes of cedarwood and red fruits".
Other high-scoring cheateaux for Mr Atkin included d'Yquem, Latour, Trotanoy, Margaux and Le Pin, the latter of which just 7,000 bottles have been produced - so serious collectors may wish to act quickly.