Le Comte de Malartic Pessac-Léognan rouge 2019 - Second vin

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

As perfectionist owners, the Bonnies have masterfully renovated the estate’s technical facilities, restored and expanded the vineyard, and—above all—transformed the wines. These Belgian wine enthusiasts purchased the estate from Laurent-Perrier in 1990 and have elevated it to its highest level. Their son, Jean-Jacques, has taken over, with the same attention to detail and commitment to excellence. The vineyard spans 53 hectares, including 7 hectares of white grape varieties, all certified under sustainable agriculture practices. The second wine, formerly known as “Sillage-de-Malartic,” became “La Réserve de Malartic” in 2006. The reds, rigorously selected, possess astonishing strength and structure, which in no way detract from their innate finesse. The recent vintages of the whites are also remarkable: they have gained body and smoothness; they are distinguished, lively, and well-balanced. La Réserve de Malartic, in both white and red, proves to be the true younger sibling of the grand vin.

Decanter

About the wine:

Brimming with wild berry fruit, fresh and expressive on the nose, it exudes richness and ripeness with the gentlest hint of fragrance. Unpretentious, the fruit takes center stage, with blackcurrant and red cherry shining through. A subtle creaminess also adds definition and texture. Good acidity, freshness, and liveliness. The tannins are slightly dry on the finish. 2023–2036

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

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

About the estate:

A perfect illustration of the appellation’s revival, Malartic-Lagravière has made spectacular progress since its acquisition in 1998 by Belgian entrepreneur Alfred-Alexandre Bonnie. With his son Jean-Jacques, his daughter Véronique, and his daughter-in-law Séverine, the estate has, in just a few years, made up for the ground it had lost during its time under the umbrella of the Champagne-based Laurent-Perrier group. The vineyard, superbly situated on a gravelly ridge behind the château, is impeccably maintained, and modern winemaking facilities have allowed the reds to gain in fullness and depth of body—particularly thanks to a vineyard that is maturing and developing deeper roots. The reds have never been better and rank among the most interesting in the appellation. The whites also exhibit a very refined, well-crafted, and generous style. Careful observation of the aging process led the estate to invest in 350- and 500-liter wooden barrels for vinification and aging.

Wine Spectator

Wine Enthusiast

Vinous

About the wine:

The 2019 Réserve de Malartic is a delicate and charming wine that can be enjoyed now and for the next few years. Delicious notes of red cherry, spices, dried leaves, tobacco, blood orange, and incense give the 2019 a beautiful complexity that matches its medium-bodied character. 2022–2029

James Suckling

About the wine:

Aromas of dark fruit and plums are accented by notes of tuile, stone, and dusty earth. It is full-bodied and extremely refined, with lovely tannins and fruit. Red currants and a subtle hint of chocolate on the finish. Second wine.

Tastingbook - Markus Del Monego

About the wine:

Deep purple in color with violet highlights and an almost black core. An aromatic nose with a bold character, featuring aromas reminiscent of ripe blackcurrant, blackberry, graphite, and notes of flint. The palate is well-structured with ripe tannins, fresh acidity, crisp red fruit, and excellent length. A well-balanced wine.