This is so energetic for a young d’Issan with lots of white pepper, crushed stones and blackberries. Full body, ultra-fine tannins and great length. One of the greatest ever. Superb depth and intensity to this real Bordeaux. Wow.
96-97 points, James Suckling (Apr 2017)
This wine has an austere structure, with firm tannins. The fruit comes through slowly, revealing an attractive black-currant flavor and ample acidity. This will be a very fine wine with time; try after 2029.
94-96 points, Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast (2017)
The 2016 D'Issan is a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and 36% Merlot cropped between 29 September and 19 October, and matured in 50% new barrels. The alcohol is 13.3% and with a pH of 3.71. It has a very classic, slightly introverted bouquet with a light marine influence coming through, but remaining very reserved, a little aloof. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannin and fine delineation; it is very crisp and focused, a classic Margaux through and through with outstanding salinity and persistence towards the precise finish. This is a beautiful D'Issan for long-term ageing, on par with the 2015.
93-95 points, Neal Martin, Wine Advocate (Issue # 230 - Apr 2017)