Le Pin 2016

robert_parker98

Reviewed by: Neal Martin

The 2016 Le Pin was made from ten different lots from the usual six, because the drought affected the different parcels and vines needed separating (indicated by paint mark on the pole). It was cropped from 4 October, the first time that picking has begun that month, at 28-30 hectoliters per hectare and there is 14.5% alcohol. It has a fresh and generous bouquet with red cherries, cranberry and pomegranate scents, the oak beautifully integrated, touches of black truffle and even a hint of smoke tucked in just underneath. The palate is medium-bodied with filigree tannin, tightly wound and taut, with a stunning sense of focus. I cannot remember a Le Pin with such tension and detail at this early juncture, perhaps even quite understated towards the saline finish, but very very precise. This is a sophisticated Le Pin from Jacques Thienpont, one that I am certain will age with style. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

robert_parker98

Reviewed by: Lisa Perrotti-Brown

The medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2016 Le Pin is still very closed, revealing glimpses of preserved plums, blackberry pie and raspberry compote plus suggestions of potpourri, star anise, tobacco, fenugreek and stewed tea plus a waft of hoisin. The medium-bodied palate is opulent, rich and plush with layers of black and red fruit preserves and loads of exotic spice accents, finishing very long and very decadent.

vinous99

Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni

The 2016 Le Pin is an extraordinarily beautiful vivid wine. Seamless, racy and voluptuous in the glass, the 2016 is a flat-out stunner. Nothing in particular stands out because all of the elements are in perfect balance. A wine of captivating, transcendental beauty, Le Pin has it all. Rose petal, red cherry, mint, blood orange and wild flowers all build in the glass, but it is the wine's breathtaking finesse and elegance that stand out most. What a gorgeous, arrestingly beautiful wine this is.

vinous100

Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni

The 2016 Le Pin is a total stunner. Dark, rich, and textured, it possesses breathtaking intensity and is sure to thrill those fortunate enough to find it. Pomegranate, blood orange, wildflowers, rose petals and sweet baking spices infuse the huge, voluptuous finish.

vinous98

Reviewed by: Neal Martin

The 2016 Le Pin has a very elegant, refined bouquet of pure brambly red fruit, rose petal and crushed stone aromas that unfurl beautifully in the glass; the oak is very well integrated. The medium-bodied palate delivers supple tannins and a fine bead of acidity. Fresh and lithe, with a vibrant, structured finish. This was already one of Jacques Thienpont’s best vintages in recent years, but you know what? It might be getting even better. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.

vinous97

Reviewed by: Neal Martin

The 2016 Le Pin was cropped at 28hl/ha and bottled at the end of June 2018. Fiona Morrison opined that the rain from January to June suited Le Pin’s gravelly soils, perhaps more than the previous vintage. This has an extremely pure, nuanced bouquet that unfolds swirl by swirl, revealing black cherries, crushed violet petals, hints of raspberry coulis and a touch of vanilla. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, very well focused and almost symmetrical. The 14.5° alcohol is one of the highest levels for Le Pin, though it is completely disguised. There is firm structure and grip to the uncharacteristically masculine finish that suggests it will require several years in bottle.