Saint Émilion & Satellites

Release date: 3/5/2024

La Grande Cote is a part of the La Mauriane property, just under one hectare, planted with 42% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Franc, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, with an average age of 75 years, on a limestone

La Grande Cote is a part of the La Mauriane property, just under one hectare, planted with 42% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Franc, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, with an average age of 75 years, on a limestone slope. Organically cultivated, hand-harvested on the 28th September after a severe green harvest, so the yield was only 29hl/ha.

The destemmed grapes are fermented in wooden vats with temperature control, and the malolactic fermentation and élevage take place in 500 litre barrels, of which 54% are new. 3250 bottles will be produced.

Release date: 2/5/2024

The 2023 Trotte Vieille is deep garnet-purple in color. The first impression is WOW! It prances out of the glass with showy notes of ripe black plums, mulberries, and blackberry pie followed by hintsThe 2023 Trotte Vieille is deep garnet-purple in color. The first impression is WOW! It prances out of the glass with showy notes of ripe black plums, mulberries, and blackberry pie followed by hints of candied violets, cedar chest, cinnamon stick, and clove oil. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers electric tension, with super-fine satiny-smooth tannins and intense black fruit and baking spice layers, finishing long and fragrant. Along with the 2022, this is the best Trotte Vieille I've tasted. The blend is 53% Cabernet Franc, 44% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon, with an alcohol of 13.5%. “The new vat room was finished in 2021 for Trotte Vieille,” commented owner Frédéric Castéja. “This made a big difference to what we could achieve this year. The aim was to respect the fruit, keep the freshness, and make wines that are not too tannic and aggressive when young. This is the opposite of the wines from the 1990s. Drinking range: 2029 - 2055 Rating: 96-98+ Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, The Wine Independent (Apr 2024)

Release date: 30/4/2024

Wow, this is really something. Very fruity, with dark blackberries and blueberries, as well as blood oranges. It’s full and layered with great depth of fruit and chewy, polished tannins. TurnsWow, this is really something. Very fruity, with dark blackberries and blueberries, as well as blood oranges. It’s full and layered with great depth of fruit and chewy, polished tannins. Turns lightly salty at the end. Power with precision. 84% merlot, 8% cabernet franc and 8% cabernet sauvignon. Rating: 97-98 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

A 1.67 hectare plot of pure Merlot on the limestone plateau - average vine age of 55 years. Picked by hand on the 4th of October after a severe selection to drop any unsatisfactory grapes. TheA 1.67 hectare plot of pure Merlot on the limestone plateau - average vine age of 55 years. Picked by hand on the 4th of October after a severe selection to drop any unsatisfactory grapes. The destemmed grapes are fermented in wooden vats with temperature control (max 23C), and the malolactic fermentation and élevage take place in 500 litre barrels, of which 31% are new. 6000 bottles will be produced.Winemaker's notes (May 2024)

The 2023 d'Aiguilhe, a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, reveals aromas of dark wild berries, cassis and mulberries intertwined with a gently oaky touch. More structuring than ClosThe 2023 d'Aiguilhe, a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, reveals aromas of dark wild berries, cassis and mulberries intertwined with a gently oaky touch. More structuring than Clos Marsalette, the Pessac-Léognan owned by the Von Neipperg family, it’s medium-bodied, concentrated and rich with structuring tannins and an oaky, firm finish. Drinking range: 2025 - 2030 Rating: 89-91 Yohan Castaing, www.robertparker.com (Apr 2024)

A blend of 55% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon matured 50% in new oak, the 2023 Montlandrie offers up aromas of flowers, wild dark berries and mulberries with a touch ofA blend of 55% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon matured 50% in new oak, the 2023 Montlandrie offers up aromas of flowers, wild dark berries and mulberries with a touch of reduction. Medium to full-bodied, dense and rich with a concentrated core of fruit, it’s enrobing and charming with structuring tannins and a long, licorice and smoke-inflected finish. It will offer a broad drinking window. Drinking range: 2025 - 2040 Rating: 90-92 Yohan Castaing, www.robertparker.com (Apr 2024)

This is 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, pretty much reflecting what is in the vineyard. This feels focused and perfumed, with remarkably floral fruits, violets and peonies, beneath which there areThis is 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, pretty much reflecting what is in the vineyard. This feels focused and perfumed, with remarkably floral fruits, violets and peonies, beneath which there are layers of griottes, white peach, blood orange and blackcurrants. The palate opens with a density and focused sinewy tension, building a controlled texture from the outset, with a supple and tightly controlled midpalate, underpinned by delicious tannins, tight knit and finely drawn. The fruit has the tense definition of the vintage, holding on to that floral perfume seen on the nose, adding a layer of interest to the fruit, before a finish which is clamped down with tightly drawn tannins. An impressive Angélus, very long and structured, in the style of the vintage. This will age well and should develop brilliant complexity from those Cabernets. Rating: 95-97 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

The blend is 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot, picked September 14th and 19th for the Merlot, picking a week later than much of the left bank and a little later than a number of right-bank peers,The blend is 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot, picked September 14th and 19th for the Merlot, picking a week later than much of the left bank and a little later than a number of right-bank peers, finishing with the Cabernet Franc on September 25th, 28th and 29th. The vines ere aged 55 years on average, and the yield was 38 hl/ha after a saignée of 4 hl/ha. The aromatics here are divine, high-class and finely polished, with rose petals, currants, dark griottes, toast and spiced dark chocolate. This translates into a palate that starts with silk before moving to a more velvety style, with such seamless upper layers, and great harmony, a little underpinning of ripe and tightly knit tannin, and fresh acidity. Dense and compact in the finish, coherent with a firmer tannic backbone but the fruit substance and texture to cope, so it feels confident, long and balanced. Beautifully styled, so approachable and bright, majoring on elegance and precision more than power, with undeniable potential. What a stunner; an Ausone to bring back memories of vintages past, for sure. Rating: 95-97 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

The blend is 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, with sweet and crunchy fruits, tense blackcurrant, currant, dark chocolate and crushed gravel. A nice presence at the start of the palate, with aThe blend is 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, with sweet and crunchy fruits, tense blackcurrant, currant, dark chocolate and crushed gravel. A nice presence at the start of the palate, with a sinewy substance, with a nicely buried core of dark and integrated tannins, the fruit profile savoury and dark, and it has the bright acidity of the vintage. This has concentration, freshness and grip, with a deliciously bright and perfumed fruit, and smoky structure. It finishes with harmony, the curtain of fruit parting to reveal a lingering frame of rich tannin. A promising Barde-Haut here, but as always let’s see how it looks after the élevage. Rating: 91-93 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

The first vintage produced in the estate's highly functional new winery, the 2023 Beau-Séjour Bécot has turned out beautifully and looks likely to rival or surpass the brilliant 2022. Unfurling inThe first vintage produced in the estate's highly functional new winery, the 2023 Beau-Séjour Bécot has turned out beautifully and looks likely to rival or surpass the brilliant 2022. Unfurling in the glass with notes of raspberries, dark berries and minty cherries mingled with notions of iris, wisteria and lilac, it's medium to full-bodied, layered and velvety, with a suave attack that prefaces a cool, complete core of fruit that's pure, perfumed and mineral, concluding with a long, saline finish. It's a blend of 77% Merlot and 23% Cabernet Franc that was harvested from September 7 to October 4, sub-block by sub-block. Rating: 96-98 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

The purity of fruit is impressive here, with raspberry, blueberry and mineral character. It’s so precise and focused with medium body and lovely length.The purity of fruit is impressive here, with raspberry, blueberry and mineral character. It’s so precise and focused with medium body and lovely length. Rating: 95-96 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

Heavy black pepper spice, good lift through the palate, powerful drive and energy, with sculpted blue and black fruits and a pumice stone scrape. Harvest September 13 to October 5, 45hl/ha yield.Heavy black pepper spice, good lift through the palate, powerful drive and energy, with sculpted blue and black fruits and a pumice stone scrape. Harvest September 13 to October 5, 45hl/ha yield. 45hl/ha yield, in organic conversion. Tasted twice. Drinking range: 2028 - 2040 Rating: 92 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2024)

Wafting from the glass with aromas of mulberries and raspberries mingled with spices, rose petals, licorice and violets, the 2023 Canon is another brilliant wine from a property whose excellence canWafting from the glass with aromas of mulberries and raspberries mingled with spices, rose petals, licorice and violets, the 2023 Canon is another brilliant wine from a property whose excellence can almost be taken for granted. Medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, it's seamless and concentrated, its vibrant core of fruit framed by sweet, powdery tannins and girdled by lively acids, concluding with a long, mineral finish. Rating: 96-98 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

Showing al-dente fruit with raspberries, orange peel and other hints of bitter citrus. Medium-bodied with creamy and medium, round tannins leading to a salty finish. Cabernet franc really showingShowing al-dente fruit with raspberries, orange peel and other hints of bitter citrus. Medium-bodied with creamy and medium, round tannins leading to a salty finish. Cabernet franc really showing through. A blend of 45% cabernet franc, 35% merlot, 20% cabernet sauvignon. May be better than 2022. Rating: 96-97 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

One of the most profound wines of the vintage is the 2023 Cheval Blanc, a striking wine that stands out for its strong sense of identity and seamless integration at such an early stage in its life.One of the most profound wines of the vintage is the 2023 Cheval Blanc, a striking wine that stands out for its strong sense of identity and seamless integration at such an early stage in its life. Wafting from the glass with notes of mulberries, lilac, dark fruits, iris root and violets, it's medium to full-bodied, supple and seamless, with a gourmand core of cool, vibrant fruit that entirely conceals its sweet structuring tannins, concluding with a long, perfumed finish. It's a blend of 52% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, drawing on fully 46 of the blocks that make up Cheval Blanc, and it attained 13.8% alcohol. Rating: 98-100 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

Dark, sensual and inviting, the 2023 Corbin shows very well today. All the elements are so well balanced. Hints of chocolate, licorice, spice and leather meld into a core of dark-fleshed fruit.Dark, sensual and inviting, the 2023 Corbin shows very well today. All the elements are so well balanced. Hints of chocolate, licorice, spice and leather meld into a core of dark-fleshed fruit. There's so much to like here. Drinking range: 2030 - 2043 Rating: 92-94 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

The 2023 Couvent des Jacobins offers up attractive aromas of dark berries and cherries mingled with hints of pencil shaving, licorice and petals. Medium to full-bodied, seamless and layered, withThe 2023 Couvent des Jacobins offers up attractive aromas of dark berries and cherries mingled with hints of pencil shaving, licorice and petals. Medium to full-bodied, seamless and layered, with velvety tannins and good mid-palate density, it displays plenty of potential. Rating: 91-93 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

A really charming, bright and well-defined fruit profile on the nose of the 2023 from Château de Ferrand, with fresh and ripe raspberry and red cherry, swirled with softening layers of vanilla, toastA really charming, bright and well-defined fruit profile on the nose of the 2023 from Château de Ferrand, with fresh and ripe raspberry and red cherry, swirled with softening layers of vanilla, toast and dark chocolate. This is followed by a quite delicious style on the palate, harmonious and pure, with a sinewy and mouth-watering substance, balanced by an understated frame of sappy and well-knit tannins, leading to a modestly gripped finish. Fresh and perfumed, with an elegant poise but plenty of structure and the fresh acidity of the vintage, this is a restrained style which should evolve well. Rating: 92-94 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

The blend is 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, as the berries were small says Frédéric Faye, and higher percentages did not work in the blend. Then there is 32% Cabernet Franc, leaving 41% Merlot. The grandThe blend is 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, as the berries were small says Frédéric Faye, and higher percentages did not work in the blend. Then there is 32% Cabernet Franc, leaving 41% Merlot. The grand vin takes 66% of the crop, within the usual limits, and the blend already includes 5% press wine. The harvest ran from September 6th to October 5th. The élevage is in oak barrels using 100% new wood. The nose is full of fresh expression, with raspberries and griottes washed with menthol and violets. The elegant stance presented on the nose comes across just as well on the palate, although here the juicy substance is complemented by layers of sinewy texture and dark veins of fruit, with a silky wrapping, along with some savoury dark fruit and liquorice notes, salted currants and tar. This has purity but also substance and style, with a sense of vigour and balance that comes with the vintage, but also sinew and a charming texture that is not universal in 2023. A super Figeac which will be delicious ten years from now. The alcohol on analysis is 13.6%, with 13.5% on the label. Rating: 95-97 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

This 2023 from the Decosters is an interesting blend of 56% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Franc and 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, and it was cropped at a yield of just 15 hl/ha. Both the blend and the yield suggestThis 2023 from the Decosters is an interesting blend of 56% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Franc and 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, and it was cropped at a yield of just 15 hl/ha. Both the blend and the yield suggest problems dealing with the mildew on this property which is in the conversion period to organic viticulture. The aromatics feel pure and bright though, with sweet dark plum, violet cream, black pepper and liquorice. This is followed by a quite delicious palate, showing beautiful harmony, melding layers of dark fruit in a polished and elegant texture, with a fine lacelike frame of tannins, and fresh acidity. Truly excellent work here, one of the best in its category; I suspect the low yields brought extra concentration, which helps in this vintage. Tasted twice. Rating: 94-96 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

This has a creamy texture with round tannins, very attractive ripe fruit and a juicy finish of blackberry and chocolate. Medium to full body. More balanced than 2022?This has a creamy texture with round tannins, very attractive ripe fruit and a juicy finish of blackberry and chocolate. Medium to full body. More balanced than 2022? Rating: 94-95 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

Very pretty with pure cassis and sliced orange character. Medium body, fine tannins and a polished finish. Balanced and fresh. Some stone and salty undertones. 64% merlot, 28% cabernet sauvignon andVery pretty with pure cassis and sliced orange character. Medium body, fine tannins and a polished finish. Balanced and fresh. Some stone and salty undertones. 64% merlot, 28% cabernet sauvignon and 8% carmenere. Rating: 92-93 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

Plum in colour, iris and violet aromatics, crushed rose petals, vibrant character on the opening that softens to creamy blueberry and raspberry fruits, cappuccino and gunsmoke, fennel and sagePlum in colour, iris and violet aromatics, crushed rose petals, vibrant character on the opening that softens to creamy blueberry and raspberry fruits, cappuccino and gunsmoke, fennel and sage spices, this is a delicious wine that is among the standouts of the vintage in the appellation. Tight tannins on the finish, sinewy and full of character. Biodynamic. A testament to the impressive investment and vision undertaken by late owner Stephen Adams. 50% new barrels for ageing. Drinking range: 2030 - 2045 Rating: 95 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2024)

Exhibiting aromas of raspberries, sweet cherries, baking spices and licorice, the 2023 Franc-Mayne is medium to full-bodied, fleshy and supple, with good depth at the core, a suave, seamless profileExhibiting aromas of raspberries, sweet cherries, baking spices and licorice, the 2023 Franc-Mayne is medium to full-bodied, fleshy and supple, with good depth at the core, a suave, seamless profile and a mineral, mouthwatering finish. Rating: 91-93 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

A nose of blackberry and plum cream, rather svelte, and delightfully fresh and perfumed. The palate is a delight, melding a sinewy substance which feels typical of the 2023 vintage, with a veryA nose of blackberry and plum cream, rather svelte, and delightfully fresh and perfumed. The palate is a delight, melding a sinewy substance which feels typical of the 2023 vintage, with a very finely knit backbone of tannins which feel sensitively extracted, with the sweet plum and summer fruit notes seen on the nose. Fragrant, perfumed and bright, there is nothing out of place here, the palate supported by high-quality tannins – some of the most finessed I found among the grand cru classé wines in this vintage – and of course 2023’s fresh acidity. This is very good indeed – a credit to the estate and the appellation. Tasted twice. Rating: 92-94 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

Bright ruby red, vivid depths to the body of the wine, well balanced, kick of eucalyptus and mint, hint of grilled cloves, with clear juice and limestone grip running through the black cherry andBright ruby red, vivid depths to the body of the wine, well balanced, kick of eucalyptus and mint, hint of grilled cloves, with clear juice and limestone grip running through the black cherry and damson fruit. The Nony family has produced another exceptional vintage here. 50% new. 49hl/ha yield. Possible upscore in bottle. Drinking range: 2030 - 2044 Rating: 93 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2024)

The 2023 Jean Faure is a very distinctive Saint-Émilion driven by a high percentage of Cabernet Franc in the blend. Dense and explosive in the glass, the 2023 saturates the palate with waves of inkyThe 2023 Jean Faure is a very distinctive Saint-Émilion driven by a high percentage of Cabernet Franc in the blend. Dense and explosive in the glass, the 2023 saturates the palate with waves of inky dark fruit, chocolate, spice, new leather and licorice. Ripeness feels a bit pushed to the limit, but finding the right time to pick Franc is rarely easy. Drinking range: 2030 - 2043 Rating: 91-93 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

The 2023 L’If is unusually floral and refined for a wine that has, in the past, been darker and more ample in structure. Cedar, tobacco, crushed flowers and mint add lift and aromatic presence. SilkyThe 2023 L’If is unusually floral and refined for a wine that has, in the past, been darker and more ample in structure. Cedar, tobacco, crushed flowers and mint add lift and aromatic presence. Silky tannins create an impression of finesse. The 2023 represents the first year of vinification in the new cellar outfitted with cement vats. Overall, though, this wine feels like a new chapter for L'If. The vibrancy and energy here are palpable. Tasted two times. Drinking range: 2030 - 2048 Rating: 94-96 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

The blend in 2023 is 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, with just 2 hectares in production as the other 2 hectares were replanted two years ago. The new plantings include more Cabernet Franc, by theThe blend in 2023 is 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, with just 2 hectares in production as the other 2 hectares were replanted two years ago. The new plantings include more Cabernet Franc, by the way. Picked on September 11th, 15th and 19th for the Merlot, finishing on September 29th for the Cabernet Franc, and the vines (those harvested!) are aged 58 years on average. The yield was 39 hl/ha. The fruit was vinified with 100% pigeage, then pressed directly into new oak. Sweet blackberry, blackcurrant and griottes on the nose, laced with tobacco and dark chocolate perfumed with rose. A very fragrant, elegant style of Merlot here, and this comes across on the palate too, which is elegant, composed, coherent and fresh, with a fine intertwining of texture, lightly grained tannins and toasted oak. This is fresh and convincing, with good structure which will carry it forward ten years and more. Delicious potential here. The alcohol is 14.14%, so 14% on the label. Rating: 92-94 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

The 2023 La Gaffelière is a dense, powerful wine. As has been the case since 2018, La Gaffelière has a strong Franc component—40% in 2023. Usually, the aromatics are quite lifted, but this wine isThe 2023 La Gaffelière is a dense, powerful wine. As has been the case since 2018, La Gaffelière has a strong Franc component—40% in 2023. Usually, the aromatics are quite lifted, but this wine is rather dense. Nothing in particular stands out, as all the elements are impeccably balanced. This will need time to be at its best, but it shows promise. The introduction of 500-liter barrels and a reduction of new oak closes the wine a bit, but there's a ton of raw energy here and a good bit of tannin, too. Drinking range: 2030 - 2048 Rating: 93-96 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

The 2023 Larcis Ducasse was picked from September 14 to 25 at 43hL/ha. The nose is quite open with brambly red fruit, briar and subtle incense aromas. It's not as intense as the previous vintage,The 2023 Larcis Ducasse was picked from September 14 to 25 at 43hL/ha. The nose is quite open with brambly red fruit, briar and subtle incense aromas. It's not as intense as the previous vintage, though I appreciate the definition and charm. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins on the entry that frame the layered black fruit, struck through with light flinty elements. Blind, I might have said there is Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend thanks to the graphite finish. It is a classically-styled Larcis Ducasse that should drink well for 20+ years. Drinking range: 2028 - 2050 Rating: 93-95 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (Apr 2024)

The 2023 Laroque might be the best wine David Suire has made since taking over here a few years ago. What I admire most about Laroque is its classicism—there is plenty of that on display here. BrightThe 2023 Laroque might be the best wine David Suire has made since taking over here a few years ago. What I admire most about Laroque is its classicism—there is plenty of that on display here. Bright acids and persistent beams of supporting tannin frame dark-toned fruit, lavender, rose petal, graphite and sweet spice in a Saint-Émilion that impresses with its vibrancy and delineation. Superb. Tasted two times. Drinking range: 2033 - 2053 Rating: 94-96 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

The 2023 Lassègue is terrific. In fact, it is one of the best wines I have tasted here. A rush of inky dark fruit, crème de cassis, mocha, cloves and chocolate are all dialed up to the maximum inThe 2023 Lassègue is terrific. In fact, it is one of the best wines I have tasted here. A rush of inky dark fruit, crème de cassis, mocha, cloves and chocolate are all dialed up to the maximum in this decidedly opulent Saint-Émilion. Lassègue is not at all subtle, but it has a ton to offer for lovers of rich, heady wines. This is the first vintage in which Cabernet Franc drives the blend. Oak impact, thankfully, has been moderated as well. It remains a pretty lush, super-ripe wine, but it is impeccably balanced. This a terrific effort from Pierre Seillan. Drinking range: 2027 - 2038 Rating: 91-93 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

The 2023 Le Tertre Roteboeuf offers up aromas of crème de cassis, blueberry liqueur, kirsch, espresso roast and creamy new oak, followed by a full-bodied, rich and layered palate that's sweet, denseThe 2023 Le Tertre Roteboeuf offers up aromas of crème de cassis, blueberry liqueur, kirsch, espresso roast and creamy new oak, followed by a full-bodied, rich and layered palate that's sweet, dense and concentrated, somewhat reminiscent of François Mitjaville's 2011. When I tasted it, the wine had only been in barrel for a matter of weeks, as the 2023 took an unusually long time to ferment to dryness. Rating: 92-96 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

The blend of Mangot is 65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, vinified with a cold soak for eight days, after which there was a slightly shorter post-fermentation maceration. AThe blend of Mangot is 65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, vinified with a cold soak for eight days, after which there was a slightly shorter post-fermentation maceration. A very pure and expressive nose, but evidently dry and savoury, with notes of blackberry and damson, laced with liquorice, tar, slate and dark chocolate. The palate follows with a gently creamed texture, rich with notes of slate, chocolate and blackberry, with deliciously savoury substance, plenty of juicy texture, a saline minerality and spice supporting the fruit. This is an another impressive sample from the Todeschini family, with a sappy grip which persists in the finish. The élevage will be in a mix of barrels (new and used), foudres and amphorae. The alcohol is around 14.5%, although probably slightly lower than that on analysis. Rating: 92-94 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

The blend is 65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the yields were lower than the norm (35-36 hl/ha) at 28.75 hl/ha, the response to the mildew a bigger green harvest here,The blend is 65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the yields were lower than the norm (35-36 hl/ha) at 28.75 hl/ha, the response to the mildew a bigger green harvest here, and a smaller crop. The picking was from September 13th to the 23rd. Despite these challenges the aromatics here feel pure and bright, with blackcurrants and blackberries, with a little lacing of confit fruit, toasty oak and dark chocolate. A very fresh style, impressive for this alluvial terroir, and this is also the impression on the palate, which is filled with textural and velvety fruit draped over a firmly expressed backbone of rather sweet but grippy tannin. This comes spiced with chocolate, crushed minerals and toast, before a along grip in the finish. An impressive Monbousquet here, especially for the vintage. It certainly has more chutzpah than Clos Lunelles, which is remarkable for the terroir. Tasted twice. The alcohol is 14.18% Rating: 91-93 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

The Vauthier family produced a slightly oaky, complex 2023 Moulin St Georges with aromas of vanilla, spices and dark wild berries. Medium to full-bodied, dense and rich with chewy tannins and a taut,The Vauthier family produced a slightly oaky, complex 2023 Moulin St Georges with aromas of vanilla, spices and dark wild berries. Medium to full-bodied, dense and rich with chewy tannins and a taut, chalky texture, it’s perfectly balanced with a fleshy texture and a long, penetrating finish. This blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc will spend 18 months in new oak barrels. Drinking range: 2025 - 2035 Rating: 90-92 Yohan Castaing, www.robertparker.com (Apr 2024)

This includes, since the 2022 vintage, all the fruit from Pavie-Decesse and Bellevue-Mondotte, none of which went into Arômes de Pavie. The blend is 51% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Franc and 17% CabernetThis includes, since the 2022 vintage, all the fruit from Pavie-Decesse and Bellevue-Mondotte, none of which went into Arômes de Pavie. The blend is 51% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Franc and 17% Cabernet Sauvignon, picked at 32.76 hl/ha. The picking was from September 18th to October 5th, at the later end for the vintage. Sweet and perfumed fruit on the nose, concentrated but floral and delineated, with violets, cedar, pencil shavings, gorse flower and dark chocolate spice with black pepper. The palate follows this up with a perfect sense of harmony, showing elegantly polished fruit with a fine-boned frame of tannins simmering beneath it, which leads to a finish rich in grip. It is firm, structured, imposing, but it feels appropriate for the vintage and the estate’s standing. An impressive composition, with fine potential. Long and gripped. The élevage will be in 72% new oak, not out of the ordinary for this property. The alcohol on analysis is 14.25%, partly because the Cabernet Sauvignon registers a lower alcohol than Cabernet Franc. Rating: 94-96 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

The depth and intensity is really out of this world. The richness is there, but it's all in balance and has an almost weightless feel to it. It's medium- to full-bodied with purity and definition,The depth and intensity is really out of this world. The richness is there, but it's all in balance and has an almost weightless feel to it. It's medium- to full-bodied with purity and definition, and the magic of limestone soils keeps the pH low, giving energy, bright acidity and verve. Terrific young red. 51% merlot, 32% cabernet franc and 17% cabernet sauvignon. Rating: 99-100 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

This year, the 2023 Quintus is a well-performing wine, possessing a dense, complex bouquet of smoke, dark wild berries and licorice intertwined with a delicate, oaky frame. Fleshy and ample, mediumThis year, the 2023 Quintus is a well-performing wine, possessing a dense, complex bouquet of smoke, dark wild berries and licorice intertwined with a delicate, oaky frame. Fleshy and ample, medium to full-bodied, it’s perfectly balanced with a delicate, lively core of fruit and a long, ethereal and chalky finish. The influence of the Grand Pontet limestone plateau lends additional straightness and precision to this wine, a blend of 78.3% Merlot and 21.7% Cabernet Franc. Drinking range: 2025 - 2045 Rating: 93-95 Yohan Castaing, www.robertparker.com (Apr 2024)

A rich, potent wine, the 2023 Sansonnet is packed with blackberry, spice, leather, licorice, menthol and chocolate. Readers will find an ample, sumptuous Saint-Émilion built on textural resonance andA rich, potent wine, the 2023 Sansonnet is packed with blackberry, spice, leather, licorice, menthol and chocolate. Readers will find an ample, sumptuous Saint-Émilion built on textural resonance and pure power, buffered by the high acids that are so typical of this site. Tasted three times. Drinking range: 2030 - 2043 Rating: 92-94 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

Inky plum, vibrant violet edges, shows the intensity that is signature to Troplong, combining velvety texture with a lightness of touch, tomato leaf and peony aromatics. Fresh blueberry andInky plum, vibrant violet edges, shows the intensity that is signature to Troplong, combining velvety texture with a lightness of touch, tomato leaf and peony aromatics. Fresh blueberry and blackberry fruits with plenty of grilled spices and sandalwood oak effortlessly integrated even at this early stage. High Cabernet Franc in the blend, and three tanks fermented with stems (which they consider as an alternative to press). 22% aged in large scale foudres, and 18% in one year old barrels, rest 60% in new oak. Drinking range: 2032 - 2050 Rating: 97 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2024)

The 2023 Clos de l'Oratoire is one of the most changed wines in the Neipperg portfolio. An increase in Cabernet Franc is immediately evident in the wine's explosive bouquet and overall energy. RoseThe 2023 Clos de l'Oratoire is one of the most changed wines in the Neipperg portfolio. An increase in Cabernet Franc is immediately evident in the wine's explosive bouquet and overall energy. Rose petal, sage, mint, dried flowers and orange peel race across the palate. Clos de l'Oratoire is absolutely beguiling in 2023. I can't wait to taste it from bottle. Drinking range: 2030 - 2043 Rating: 92-95 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

The 2023 Clos Fourtet is especially suave and refined this year, wafting from the glass with deep aromas of red berries, licorice, violets and pencil shavings, framed by a nicely integrated patina ofThe 2023 Clos Fourtet is especially suave and refined this year, wafting from the glass with deep aromas of red berries, licorice, violets and pencil shavings, framed by a nicely integrated patina of new oak. Medium to full-bodied, supple and layered, with a velvety attack that segues into a bright, precise mid-palate, it's pure and lively, concluding with a mineral finish. Rating: 94-96 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

The wine which takes fruit from the unclassified parcels belonging to Canon, with nothing declassified from Croix Canon. The yield was 45 hl/ha, and the blend is 54% Merlot and 46% Cabernet Franc,The wine which takes fruit from the unclassified parcels belonging to Canon, with nothing declassified from Croix Canon. The yield was 45 hl/ha, and the blend is 54% Merlot and 46% Cabernet Franc, the recent pulling up of a 2-hectare parcel of Merlot dating from after the 1956 frost. Lovely purity on the nose, with the suggestion of tension and linearity, with crisp summer raspberries and blackberries, with a hint of rose petal and dark chocolate. The palate is indeed rather juicy and modestly composed, with a fresh and linear stance, quite elegant and sinewy, with a firm wrapping of limestone tannins. Plenty of limestone grip in the finish too. Rather a taut example of Croix Canon which should age nicely on that fresh acidity. Rating: 90-92 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

The 2023 Chapelle d’Ausone is fabulous, as it often is. Succulent, ripe tannins give the 2023 tons of pure charm. Dark red/purplish fruit, lavender, spice, menthol, licorice and mocha all run throughThe 2023 Chapelle d’Ausone is fabulous, as it often is. Succulent, ripe tannins give the 2023 tons of pure charm. Dark red/purplish fruit, lavender, spice, menthol, licorice and mocha all run through this sumptuous yet structured Saint-Émilion. This will be stellar in another few years time. Drinking range: 2030 - 2048 Rating: 92-94 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

A blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, picked September 19th to the 30th, a relatively late start in this vintage. The yield was 37 hl/ha – there was a slightly lower Cabernet yield here thanA blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, picked September 19th to the 30th, a relatively late start in this vintage. The yield was 37 hl/ha – there was a slightly lower Cabernet yield here than expected, reflecting the age of the vines here. I find a rather crystalline character to the fruit on the nose, with croquant red cherry fruits, infused with red rose petals and peonies, as well as a firm infusion of reductive minerals. The character on the palate is fresh, sinewy, lithe and a little darker in fruit character than the nose suggests, with black summer fruits swirled with roses, slate and a touch of dark chocolate. A firm finish, with a tight grip of tannins. An attractive result in this vintage, and again a wine that should develop well in barrel and bottle. The alcohol is around 13.5%. Rating: 92-94 L&S (Apr 2024)

The 2023 Dragon de Quintus is a real success this year, revealing aromas of cassis, mulberries, dark wild berries and flowers. Moderately weighted and elegant, the wine on the palate is fleshy, roundThe 2023 Dragon de Quintus is a real success this year, revealing aromas of cassis, mulberries, dark wild berries and flowers. Moderately weighted and elegant, the wine on the palate is fleshy, round and seamless with a structuring, long finish. This is a blend of 71.6% Merlot and 28.4% Cabernet Franc. Drinking range: 2025 - 2035 Rating: 90-92 L&S (Apr 2024)

A 100% Merlot, the 2023 Saintayme evokes aromas of dark wild berries, mulberries, licorice and pencil lead, followed by a round, supple and juicy palate with a fleshy core of fruit and dense, richA 100% Merlot, the 2023 Saintayme evokes aromas of dark wild berries, mulberries, licorice and pencil lead, followed by a round, supple and juicy palate with a fleshy core of fruit and dense, rich tannins that assert themselves with a structured finish. Rating: 88-90 Yohan Castaing, www.robertparker.com (Apr 2024)