Winemag Buying Guide Here

Julian took a sip. The wine was electric. It had the tension of a wire pulled too tight—a reflection of the man sitting across from him. It was a masterpiece born of near-catastrophe.

Julian pulled out his tablet. He paused. He could give it a 94—safe, respectful, professional. Or he could give it the 97 it deserved, a score that would change Henri's life forever but would draw the scrutiny of every skeptical collector in the world. winemag buying guide

Julian, a veteran critic for the Wine Enthusiast Buying Guide, held his tasting glass by the base. He looked at the liquid—a deep, garnet-hued Cabernet Franc—and then at the man across the table. Julian took a sip