Château Bellevue de Rambaud is owned and worked by brothers Hubert and Pierre Lavaud and is located near the village of Pellegrue, some 30 kilometres southeast of Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. Produce of 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc from some 20 hectares of vines; deep crimson red in color with aromas suggestive of fleshy berry, plum and a fine winegrowing earth; medium-full in body, just richly-textured with lively delicate tannins that have a nice grip, effortlessly carrying a burst of gently intense flavors good and long on the finish. This terrific offering from Château Bellevue de Rambaud is strong evidence that 2009 is formidable among recent vintages in Bordeaux. It is surely among the best values in Bordeaux that we've encountered.

It is good to see this property on the rebound as I have fond memories of some of their older vintages (I drank several cases of their gorgeous 1982). The 2008's sweet kirsch liqueur intermixed with sandy, loamy soil and licorice undertones are presented in a fruit-forward, precocious, sensual format with medium body, ripe fruit, beautiful density, good freshness, and velvety tannins. Drink: 2009-2021. Rated (87-89). ‑ Robert M. Parker, Jr.'s The Wine Advocate Issue 182, April, 2009

A pretty, seductive style of wine, the medium-bodied, dark plum/ruby-tinged 2008 exhibits generous quantities of black cherries, tobacco leaf, licorice and earth as well as loads of spice, an endearing, lush texture and rich fruit. Drink: 2011-2026. Rated 89. ‑ Robert M. Parker, Jr.'s The Wine Advocate Issue 194, May, 2011

A very strong effort for the vintage, this dark ruby/purple-hued 2007 reveals notes of sandalwood, spice box, black currants, sweet cherries, and truffles. Spicy, round, and generous with a nicely layered mouthfeel, velvety tannins, and a surprisingly long, authoritative finish, it will provide plenty of pleasure over the next 10-12 years. Rated 89+. ‑ Robert M. Parker, Jr.'s The Wine Advocate Issue 188, April, 2010