Very highly recommended. Priced 20% lower than the 2005 however clearly an amazing wine. Parker has described Pavie Macquin as "the Lafleur of St Emilion". Stéphane Derenoncourt needs no introduction by now - he is associated with so many exceptional wines of the Libournais. This 2006 is of almost Pavie-like concentration and power, but with a more refined and velvety texture and excellent balance and freshness. It is clearly a monumental success. Once again, another wine that is not a 1er grand cru classé - yet it outperforms many of them, see Parker's note below. Bill Blatch: 4/5
Robert Parker: [WA] 92-95 points, outstanding to extraordinary "As of this vintage, Pavie Macquin is entitled to a premier grand cru classe designation in the revised classification of the wines of St.-Emilion (suspended in March because of pending litigation). Overseen by the dynamic duo of Nicolas Thienpont and Stephane Derenoncourt, the 2006, a blend of 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, should turn out to be one of the top wines of the vintage. It boasts an inky/blue/purple color as well as an extraordinary bouquet of charcoal, blackberries, blueberries, licorice, and smoke. Full-bodied, powerful, and rich, it is nearly as prodigious as the virtually perfect 2005. An amazing wine for the vintage, it clearly emerges from a magnificent terroir. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2030."
Stephen Tanzer: 91-93 points "Good full ruby. High-pitched, brooding aromas of dark fruits, shoe polish, bitter chocolate and smoky oak. Silky on entry, then bright and penetrating in the middle palate, with terrific definition and floral lift to the black fruit and mineral flavors. Primary, palate-staining wine with superb vinosity; very much a limestone wine. Finishes very long and sweet, with a distinctly fresh aftertaste. Stephane Derenoncourt told me he eliminated 15% to 20% of the fruit due to rot, "like everywhere," then did a long cuvaison with a very gentle extraction. This is 14% alcohol with a low pH of 3.45 and a full 4 grams of acidity."
James Lawther [Decanter]: 4 Stars "Lovely vitality of fruit. Plenty of length and persistence from firm but ripe tannins. Minerality on the finish. Long ageing wine. 2016-30."