Château Duhart-Milon Pauillac 2018 - Grand Cru Classé

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

The Duhart vineyard is situated in the heart of Pauillac’s finest terroirs and rivals the incomparable quality of Lafite, though its drainage is perhaps slightly less ideal. The blend relies more heavily on Merlot, which better balances the very firm tannins that the terroir imparts to the Cabernets. We did not fully find in the bottled wines the richness and, above all, the purity of the samples tasted en primeur, but the wines clearly possess a distinct Pauillac character. The remarkable 2018 vintage should mark a major milestone in the desired progress.

Decanter

About the wine:

One of the Lafite estate's true successes in 2018. The nose reveals a rich, creamy texture, followed by a velvety mouthfeel and a full palate. Serious, with a long life ahead of it. This is one of the most voluptuous Duhart-Milons I’ve tasted, and in my opinion, it will broaden the circle of enthusiasts for this wine. Plenty of black fruit, dark chocolate, licorice, slate, and pencil lead. It exhibits the character of both Pauillac and Cabernet Sauvignon. Very high quality. pH 3.84 and a yield of 37.5 hl/ha. Best enjoyed between 2026 and 2044.

Guide Hachette des vins

About the estate:

These former lands of the “Prince of Vines,” Nicolas-Alexandre de Ségur (18th century), were long owned by the Castéja family, who gave the vineyard its name (that of a privateer under Louis XV who settled in Pauillac upon his retirement, whose house now adorns the label). Sold in 1937, fragmented, and in decline, the Duhart-Milon vineyard was purchased in 1962 by the Rothschilds, who restructured and expanded it, restoring its prestige as a Fourth Growth. The vineyard now covers 76 hectares adjacent to Château Lafite, on the Milon hillside that extends from the Carruades plateau.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the wine:

The 2018 Duhart-Milon is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Merlot. With 14% alcohol, it boasts a deep garnet-purple color and a seductive, opulent nose of plum jam, blackberry tart, and chocolate-covered cherries, with notes of spice cake, potpourri, sandalwood, and eucalyptus oil. Medium-bodied, it is bursting with rich, spicy black fruit jams, with floral accents and a velvety texture. Long, fragrant finish. Good.

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the estate:

Lafite Rothschild’s younger sibling receives the full attention of Éric Kohler and his team. Blessed with a beautiful gravel terroir in the heart of Pauillac, it has long suffered from the young age of its vines. As the years have passed, the estate has now firmly established itself. Producing serious, classic, and very dense wines that age beautifully, Duhart is a sure bet in Pauillac.

Wine Spectator

Wine Enthusiast

About the wine:

This is a mature, classic Cabernet Sauvignon-based wine. Its initially austere character blossoms into rich blackcurrant flavors that exude class. Supported by acidity and with the wine’s oak aging notes still present, the wine is just beginning its journey. Best enjoyed starting in 2027.

Vinous

About the wine:

Just as it was in the barrel, the 2018 Duhart-Milon is a true powerhouse. Black cherry, gravel, spices, espresso, and savory herbs lend this 2018 remarkable depth and power. This Duhart-Milon is a dark, virile wine with real punch. I’d give it a few years to mellow. The 2018 has really come into its own since its en primeur release. In fact, the bottled wine bears little resemblance to the en primeur sample, which is a very good thing. There is real density and weight here, along with all the natural richness of the vintage. Drinking window: 2026–2043.

James Suckling

About the wine:

The nose reveals sweet berries, cherries, soft tobacco, pencil lead, and blackcurrant. It is full-bodied and very rich, with layers of fruit and creamy tannins intertwined. Extremely long and creamy. A great Duhart. Best enjoyed after 2026.

Yves Beck

About the wine:

Duhart’s bouquet has character, which it showcases through its terroir with notes of graphite followed by fruity nuances and hints of blackberries. On the palate, the wine is precise, slightly creamy, and well-supported by a tight tannic structure. The aromatic expression unfolds slowly on the palate. It is perfectly balanced by the acidity, which simultaneously lends the wine elegance and liveliness. A Duhart with character that has everything it needs to age well and displays a beautiful balance. 2025–2050

Jean-Marc Quarin

About the wine:

Served after decanting. Deep, intense, and beautiful color. A very aromatic, subtle nose with ripe fruit notes. Refined on the palate at first, the wine immediately unfolds with rich fruit, a smooth texture, and savory flavors. It melts on the palate with grace and subtlety, revealing noble nuances. It has a long finish and is truly excellent.