The 2014 l'If has a pretty bouquet, quite intense with hints of licorice infusing the bright and vivid black cherry and blueberry fruit. With time, there is an intriguing melted tar scent. The palate is medium-bodied with quite firm tannin. RP
This is really perfumed with tar, licorice, blackberries and stone. Some gunmetal. This has ultra fine tannins with a tightly wound mouth feel that gives a long, precise finish. The flavors are focused and wonderful. JS
$ 1,480
L'if St.-Emilion 2019
RP
94
WS
90
JS
96
Blackberry and cherry aromas with some walnuts. Crushed stone, dried seaweed and forest fruit, too. It’s medium-bodied with firm, fine and chewy tannin and a salty finish. Some smokiness. JS
$ 1,900
L'if St.-Emilion 2018
RP
93-95
WS
94
JS
99
A driven and serious DP with aromas of chalk, biscuits, apricot stones and lemons. Some spice and dried flowers, too. So sleek and sophisticated. Elegant. Yet, it’s long and powerful, with a sharp minerality. Tight and precise. JS
$ 1,720
L'IF St.-Emilion 2015
RP
92-94
JS
98
Aromas of blackberries, dried mushrooms and iodine. Sweet tobacco and cloves to boot. Full body and a creamy texture that the limestone imparts. Very persistent. Impressive drive and precision. JS
$ 1,200
L'if St.-Emilion 2016
RP
94
WS
93
JS
98
This is a compact cylinder of ripe and fresh fruit with currant, fresh-herb and dry-earth character on the palate. So solid. Full-bodied yet refined and checked in every way. Well-defined, formed and perfect. Just a hint of volcanic salt and iron. Contemplate this one. JS