A relatively high-toned and beautifully complex nose of stone-infused red currant, raspberry and spice hints marries into supple and silky-textured medium-bodied flavors that tighten up considerably on the explosive and intensely mineral-driven finish. I very much like the focus and calm poise this powerful effort exudes and like many of the ´09 de Montille wines, this should age effortlessly.

Score: 92-94 Allen Meadow (AM), Bourghound (BH), May 2011

(two-thirds vendange entier): Palish medium red. Knockout nose offers raspberry, cherry, flowers, spices and a whiff of cotton candy. Very sweet red berry flavors show a medicinal reserve thanks to strong fresh herb and crushed stone elements. I love the combination of a plump, creamy middle and a firm edge. The minerally, long finish is already quite expressive but this wine really calls for six or seven years in the cellar. Here´s another address where the use of whole clusters has given the 2009s more tension than they would otherwise have had.

Score: 92+ Stephen Tanzer (ST), Vinous Media (VM), March 2012

The 2009 Pommard Rugiens Bas is delicate and gracious from start to finish. Bright red fruit, hard candy and fresh flowers are some of the many nuances that take shape in the glass. The 2009 reveals considerable aromatic lift and a seamless personality that is totally inviting. De Montille used 67% whole clusters, but their influence is quite marked in the wine. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029+.   Etienne de Montille’s 2009 reds have developed beautifully since I last tasted them about six months ago. De Montille was among the very first growers to harvest in 2009. At the outset de Montille’s 2009s were a bit awkward, but today they have come together better than I expected.

Score: 94 Antonio Galloni (AG), The Wine Advocate (WA), April 2012