Saint Émilion & Satellites

Release date: 22/6/2023

This is a wonderful illustration of what Figeac and its legendary trio of merlot, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc can offer. We cannot remember tasting another vintage as fresh as this: itsThis is a wonderful illustration of what Figeac and its legendary trio of merlot, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc can offer. We cannot remember tasting another vintage as fresh as this: its floral subtlety totally belies what was a very hot year. Remarkable for its intensity and for its dynamic nature, not to mention its overall harmony. Rating: 97-100 La Revue du Vin de France (May 2023)

Release date: 21/6/2023

The 2022 Troplong Mondot is one of the most elegant wines I have ever tasted here. Seamless and layered, the 2022 caresses the palate with layers of dark-fleshed fruit, spice, leather and mocha. TheThe 2022 Troplong Mondot is one of the most elegant wines I have ever tasted here. Seamless and layered, the 2022 caresses the palate with layers of dark-fleshed fruit, spice, leather and mocha. The purity of the fruit is just remarkable. The typical Troplong stature is present, but the tannins are nearly imperceptible. Clean saline notes extend the long, precise finish. In 2022, the estate was quite selective and only bottled about 70% of the production as Grand Vin, as opposed to the more typical 90% or so. Drinking range: 2032 - 2062 Rating: 96-98 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2023)

Release date: 21/6/2023

Very fine tannins with a brightness and freshness. Medium to full body. Vivid and crisp. Chocolate, walnut and berry at the end. 81.6% merlot, 12.1% cabernet franc and 6.3% malbecVery fine tannins with a brightness and freshness. Medium to full body. Vivid and crisp. Chocolate, walnut and berry at the end. 81.6% merlot, 12.1% cabernet franc and 6.3% malbec Rating: 93-94 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2023)

Release date: 21/6/2023

The 2022 Quintus, one of the best wines produced at this estate, reveals aromas of dark berries, licorice, ripe plum, spices, and hints of graphite. It’s fleshy and concentrated, precise andThe 2022 Quintus, one of the best wines produced at this estate, reveals aromas of dark berries, licorice, ripe plum, spices, and hints of graphite. It’s fleshy and concentrated, precise and crystalline, with a tensile, chalky profile, velvety tannins and a vibrant, penetratingly saline finish. The integration of fruit from Grand Pontet recently acquired by the Dillon group means that the blend now contains fully 41.5% Cabernet Franc, bringing more mid-palate structure and amplifying Quintus's limestone-influenced character. Rating: 92-94 Yohan Castaing, www.robertparker.com (Apr 2023)

Release date: 20/6/2023

This has been made with extreme attention to detail and nothing left to chance. The colour is very intense, dark and bright. The aromas are somewhat restrained by the oak at this stage, but theThis has been made with extreme attention to detail and nothing left to chance. The colour is very intense, dark and bright. The aromas are somewhat restrained by the oak at this stage, but the palate shows plenty of spirit and lively freshness that helps shape the concentrated substance. We can only hope that this brightness will be preserved once this is bottled. Rating: 94-95 La Revue du Vin de France (May 2023)

Release date: 20/6/2023

The second wine of Canon, although in truth it comes from specified parcels outside those classified as premier grand cru classé. The blend is 41% Merlot and 59% Cabernet Franc, with picking startingThe second wine of Canon, although in truth it comes from specified parcels outside those classified as premier grand cru classé. The blend is 41% Merlot and 59% Cabernet Franc, with picking starting from August 30th for the Merlots, finishing September 22nd for the Cabernets. The yield was an impressive 45 hl/ha overall. The nose is rich in curranty fruits, with rose perfume, with a little Cabernet mint and lavender, and a touch of minerally matchsticky reduction. A knowledge of the blend is essential to understand the palate, which has a very taut, Cabernet driven texture, linear and spiced, filled out with pencil shavings, white pepper and violets. This has real charm, with finessed and finely grained tannins, giving it a limestone grip. Limestone and Cabernet Franc, what’s not to like? This will do well. The alcohol is 14.5%. 89-91 Rating: 89-91 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (May 2023)

Release date: 20/6/2023

The inky intensity of the colour might make you worry that the limestone signature will be swamped, but it is very much guiding proceedings on the palate here. Expect waves of red roses, rhubarb,The inky intensity of the colour might make you worry that the limestone signature will be swamped, but it is very much guiding proceedings on the palate here. Expect waves of red roses, rhubarb, pink grapefruit, salinity, but also real intensity, there is a depth and complexity that quite stunning as the wine expands through the palate, with creamy blue and black fruits, and a mouthwatering oyster shell finish. 45hl/h, 3.5ph, 50% new oak, with four larger-sized oak casks. A standout in the vintage, more proof of the exceptional level that Canon is playing at right now. 50% new oak. Drinking range: 2032 - 2050 Rating: 98 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (Jun 2023)

Release date: 19/6/2023

Just so good, so much uplift, direction and power, with vivid violet reflections to the ruby coloured fruit. Intense and concentrated on the opening, then a soaring limestone juice comes in throughJust so good, so much uplift, direction and power, with vivid violet reflections to the ruby coloured fruit. Intense and concentrated on the opening, then a soaring limestone juice comes in through the mid palate, with the whole thing showing precision and character. A jumbled, joyful mix of blueberry, cassis, peony, roses, pummice stone and slate limestone, cocoa bean and coffee, showing real depth and seduction. This is always one of the wines that for me most leans in to the character of limestone, and you really feel the full impact in this hot year. Old vines 45 years average. Stopped all punch down during fermentation, now only soft pumpovers and infusion. Axel Marchal and Julien Viaud consultants. Highest Cabernet Franc percentage in the estate's history, and a full 40hl/h yield, 3.5ph. Potential 100. Drinking range: 2032 - 2050 Rating: 98-100 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2023)

Release date: 19/6/2023

The proportion of cabernet franc in the blend has now attained 34%, with merlot at 50% and the remainder cabernet sauvignon. This vintage is magnificently concentrated with a natural feeling to thisThe proportion of cabernet franc in the blend has now attained 34%, with merlot at 50% and the remainder cabernet sauvignon. This vintage is magnificently concentrated with a natural feeling to this power and nothing exotic about the fruit flavours which are admirably held aloft by vigourous acidity. Its considerable power will become more refined in time. Rating: 95-97 La Revue du Vin de France (May 2023)

Release date: 13/6/2023

With its intense colour, this 2022 shows exceptional density that is admirably held in check by a singularly fresh feeling. A tightly knit structure comes in handy to contain its bounding power. ThisWith its intense colour, this 2022 shows exceptional density that is admirably held in check by a singularly fresh feeling. A tightly knit structure comes in handy to contain its bounding power. This clearly has good ageing capacity and will gradually soften. Rating: 95-96 La Revue du Vin de France (May 2023)

Release date: 13/6/2023

Really lovely. Very elegant - and very charming weight of fruit. Strawberry crush and lovely peps of raspberry. Fresh green leaves, gentle note of petals and lovely mineral cool wind comes in at theReally lovely. Very elegant - and very charming weight of fruit. Strawberry crush and lovely peps of raspberry. Fresh green leaves, gentle note of petals and lovely mineral cool wind comes in at the back end. Fresh and very long. And such a beautifully sleek finish with lifted aromatics. Matthieu Cuvelier has really pulled it out of the bag this year- and it is hard to find any faut with the 2022 Clos Fourtet. The great vineyard - one block in prime position on the limestone plateau provided irresistible fruit, He kept temperature low for fermentation - to respect fruit and tannic structure. Whole berries, no crushing. Lost a bit of volume this year - but with addition of Grandes Murailles (3/4 of which went into the grand vin) they made up this difference. 40% in new oak this year - which is a big reduction for Clos Fourtet, Matthieu really wants to let the bright fruit - and superb saline edge shine in 2022. He explains that despite the heat this year is not exotic like 2009 and has much more acid and better balance than 2003. He thinks the vine was stressed right from the start of the season - and so it learnt to cope with the excesses. They kept the grass covering the ground to try and keep it cool. L&S (Jun 2023)

Release date: 12/6/2023

Limestone fingerprint gives balance and a pummice stone slate chraacter to the tannic grip. This is intense, with delicious edges of fennel and saffron, plenty of lift and juice, enjoyable and notLimestone fingerprint gives balance and a pummice stone slate chraacter to the tannic grip. This is intense, with delicious edges of fennel and saffron, plenty of lift and juice, enjoyable and not overblown, stays firmly on the right side. Raspberry and blackberry fruits abound. A delicous wine; one to look out for. 50% new oak. Drinking range: 2030 - 2046 Rating: 95 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (Apr 2023)

Release date: 9/6/2023

80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. 50% new oak. 14.3% alc. 3.52 pH. Approximately 10000 bottles produced. Jacques Thienpont thinks this is a more elegant wine than the highly fancied 202080% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. 50% new oak. 14.3% alc. 3.52 pH. Approximately 10000 bottles produced. Jacques Thienpont thinks this is a more elegant wine than the highly fancied 2020 vintage, and you have to go back to 1947 for a vintage with comparable climatic conditions! After over a decade of work in the vines, replanting and refining their vineyards, this is the second vintage in which the Cabernet Franc element has been augmented in the blend. Jacques stated that he didn’t have to make much effort in the vineyards in 2022, leaving the responsibility of the vines to the great limestone terroir beneath the surface. And he is right to feel confident because this wine is both delicious and luxurious without being heavy or ostentatious. Dark, ripe, rich and actively grainy on the finish and ever so classy, this is a coming-of-age vintage for L’If. Rating: 18+ Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (May 2023)

Release date: 9/6/2023

The 2022 Beau-Séjour Bécot has a bit more Cabernet Franc than most years, which comes through immediately in the wine's aromatic profile. Dark, rich and expressive, the 2022 is seriously impressive.The 2022 Beau-Séjour Bécot has a bit more Cabernet Franc than most years, which comes through immediately in the wine's aromatic profile. Dark, rich and expressive, the 2022 is seriously impressive. Crushed flowers, herbs, mint, blood orange and red-toned fruit all build into a sumptuous, majestic finish that just explodes on the back end. The 2022 is one of the very finest editions of Beau-Séjour Bécot I can remember tasting. It is a great, great wine. Drinking range: 2032 - 2052 Rating: 98-100 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2023)

Release date: 8/6/2023

The 2022 Pavie Macquin is a gorgeous wine, not quite as exotic as it can be, which will no doubt please those who find this wine on the richer side within the context of Saint-Émilion. Dark redThe 2022 Pavie Macquin is a gorgeous wine, not quite as exotic as it can be, which will no doubt please those who find this wine on the richer side within the context of Saint-Émilion. Dark red fruit, chalk, mint, white pepper and spice all race across the palate. Given the small size of the berries and the heat, the winemaking team led by Nicolas Thienpont opted for gentler vinification with fewer punchdowns than the past. The result is a decidedly linear, vibrant Pavie Macquin that bristles with the chalky, saline energy that is a signature of this part of Saint-Émilion, but that has not always been present in a wine that in the past has been more about textural opulence. The blend is 80% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon. Tasted four times. Drinking range: 2030 - 2052 Rating: 95-97 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (Apr 2023)

Release date: 7/6/2023

The most structured and impressive Trottevieille I have ever tasted. It is full-bodied yet compacted with a fine velvet texture. Intense finish with super tension and focus. Could move up a notch.The most structured and impressive Trottevieille I have ever tasted. It is full-bodied yet compacted with a fine velvet texture. Intense finish with super tension and focus. Could move up a notch. Rating: 98-99 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2023)

Release date: 6/6/2023

60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc. 60% new oak and a shorter ageing in barrel is forecast, to keep the fruit bright and the freshness perky. Wonderfully pretty nose has violets, warm spiced plum juice60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc. 60% new oak and a shorter ageing in barrel is forecast, to keep the fruit bright and the freshness perky. Wonderfully pretty nose has violets, warm spiced plum juice and firm blackberries. Just-right structure. Straight up. Really charming with a polished flow with wafts of cocoa powder, red berries and leafy herbs too. Underneath it all lies a a cool line, and a super-fine powdery rub. The feel is cool and bright and well-weighted with neatly pert fruit. Mineral coolness builds to the long finish which has freshness and power. L&S (Apr 2023)

Release date: 5/6/2023

We liked this wine very much at this stage of its evolution. It shows plenty of stylish floral and fruity aromas and its suave texture bequeaths great finesse. The finish has that salty tang thatWe liked this wine very much at this stage of its evolution. It shows plenty of stylish floral and fruity aromas and its suave texture bequeaths great finesse. The finish has that salty tang that adds lift. Rating: 93-95 La Revue du Vin de France (May 2023)

Release date: 5/6/2023

Intense and concentrated, with fennel, aniseed and liqourice root. Where Chapelle d'Ausone celebrates a wave of opulence in the vintage, this focuses more clearly on black tea, slate, intense blackIntense and concentrated, with fennel, aniseed and liqourice root. Where Chapelle d'Ausone celebrates a wave of opulence in the vintage, this focuses more clearly on black tea, slate, intense black chocolate. Precise and well cut, this is creamy and exuberant without sacrificing elegance and balance. Amazing depths of flavour and grip. A true En Primeur sample where you know you are a long long way from this being ready to drink. The first year, incidentally, of not Premier Grand Cru Classé A, although the ranking has not been featured on the label since 2012. No irrigation at Ausone. 100% new oak. Harvest September 5 to 27. 7.25ha. Conversion to organic farming since 2020, Philippe Baillarguet cellar master, Pauline Vauthier owner and winemaker. Potential 100. Drinking range: 2032 - 2050 Rating: 98-100 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2023)

Release date: 5/6/2023

The 2022 Chapelle d'Ausone has slightly less Cabernet Franc than the previous vintage (60%). Picked from 5 to 30 September and matured for a planned 20 months, it has a floral nose with underlyingThe 2022 Chapelle d'Ausone has slightly less Cabernet Franc than the previous vintage (60%). Picked from 5 to 30 September and matured for a planned 20 months, it has a floral nose with underlying oyster shell scents from the astéries limestone. The palate is pure and medium-bodied with svelte, silky smooth tannins and fine acidity. Black cherries, soy and blueberry notes appear toward the finish, with a dash of white pepper on the aftertaste. Very fine. Drinking range: 2027 - 2042 Rating: 91-93 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (May 2023)

Release date: 2/6/2023

80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. Certified organic. Cask sample. Aromatic, juicy and really quite refined. A bit more Cabernet Franc has added energy and fragrance. Should make a good drinking wine.80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. Certified organic. Cask sample. Aromatic, juicy and really quite refined. A bit more Cabernet Franc has added energy and fragrance. Should make a good drinking wine. (JL) 14.5% Drinking range: 2026 - 2037 Rating: 16+ James Lawther MW, www.JancisRobinson.com (May 2023)

Release date: 2/6/2023

Heavy clay soils before you hit limestone here, and the wine delivers unusual levels of sappy, pummice stone, juicy austerity for the vintage. Almost a granite edge to the tannins, floral aromaticHeavy clay soils before you hit limestone here, and the wine delivers unusual levels of sappy, pummice stone, juicy austerity for the vintage. Almost a granite edge to the tannins, floral aromatic intensity, bring blue and red fruits, and subtle spices of dill, sage and saffran. Excellent quality and value. 35hl/h yield, 30% new oak. Drinking range: 2024 - 2036 Rating: 94 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (Apr 2023)

Release date: 2/6/2023

The aromas of fully ripe cabernet franc (35% of the blend) stand out immediately from the deep hue of this 2022. Excellent definition to this wine with its aromas of black fruit and mild spice thatThe aromas of fully ripe cabernet franc (35% of the blend) stand out immediately from the deep hue of this 2022. Excellent definition to this wine with its aromas of black fruit and mild spice that enliven its gentle substance. A deeply velvety texture reaches into a long finish with a slightly saline touch. Rating: 94-95 La Revue du Vin de France (May 2023)

Release date: 2/6/2023

80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. 40% new oak 14% alc 45 hl/ha Harvested between 3 – 23 September Certified Organic. Has La Mondotte finally been tamed in 2022? Would you be80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. 40% new oak 14% alc 45 hl/ha Harvested between 3 – 23 September Certified Organic. Has La Mondotte finally been tamed in 2022? Would you be disappointed if I said, ‘Yes’? The answer is that I hope that it will never be genuinely calm because I admire the restlessness of this expressive terroir, but I like the way in which it appears less hectic and far more controlled than usual in 2022. The result is a profound wine of incredible power and graceful refinement. The tannins are wonderfully controlled, prompting Stephan von Niepperg to jokingly say, ‘We forgot to extract in 2022”. This shows just how much natural power and intensity there was in the grapes in 2022. This is an incredible wine, and the calibre of elemental fruit makes it my highest-scoring wine at this estate to date. Rating: 19+ Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (May 2023)

Release date: 1/6/2023

A firm and linear wine with lovely length and focus, with crushed stone and blackberry character. Racy finish. Precise.A firm and linear wine with lovely length and focus, with crushed stone and blackberry character. Racy finish. Precise. Rating: 93-94 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2023)

Release date: 1/6/2023

Full-bodied yet fresh and linear with bright fruit and firm, fine tannins. Crunchy and minerally. Fresh.Full-bodied yet fresh and linear with bright fruit and firm, fine tannins. Crunchy and minerally. Fresh. Rating: 94-95 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2023)

Release date: 31/5/2023

The limestone soils in Castillon are naturally cooler than many parts of Bordeaux across in all vintages, and yet even here the harvest began on September 8 through to 23, highlighting the unusualThe limestone soils in Castillon are naturally cooler than many parts of Bordeaux across in all vintages, and yet even here the harvest began on September 8 through to 23, highlighting the unusual conditions of the vintage. The resulting wine still reflects the site, with its salinity and grip, and waves of soft rose aromatics. Gentle, supple tannins and fruits, enjoyable and finessed, carefully calibrated given the heat of the summer. 37hl/h yields. 50% new oak, Noemie Durantou winemaker. Drinking range: 2025 - 2035 Rating: 93 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (Apr 2023)

Release date: 31/5/2023

Always the opener at this wonderful estate - in 2022 Saintayme is once again a brilliant wine. Crisp and firm, with some good chalky restraint. A focused, linear line to the pert red berry fruit. SoAlways the opener at this wonderful estate - in 2022 Saintayme is once again a brilliant wine. Crisp and firm, with some good chalky restraint. A focused, linear line to the pert red berry fruit. So measured, so contained this has real class. A great example of what can be achieved in 2022 despite the heat of the year. This is serious Saint Emilion and a real bargain. Loaded with sophisticated fruit and brimming with tension. No wonder it is one of just 7 Right Bank wines hailed by Jane Anson as a 'Great Value' option in 2022.L&S (Apr 2023)

Release date: 30/5/2023

The 2022 Sansonnet is a full-throttle, opulent Saint-Émilion. Blackberry jam, mocha, gravel, incense, licorice and bittersweet chocolate are all dialed up. Sansonnet is always a potent wine. In 2022,The 2022 Sansonnet is a full-throttle, opulent Saint-Émilion. Blackberry jam, mocha, gravel, incense, licorice and bittersweet chocolate are all dialed up. Sansonnet is always a potent wine. In 2022, everything is dialed up to the maximum. This is not a shy wine. That much is obvious. Tasted three times. Drinking range: 2028 - 2047 Rating: 92-94 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2023)

Release date: 30/5/2023

A rich and layered red with lots of fruit and presence. It’s full-bodied and very powerful. Big wine. Let’s see how it mellows with barrel age.A rich and layered red with lots of fruit and presence. It’s full-bodied and very powerful. Big wine. Let’s see how it mellows with barrel age. Rating: 92-93 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2023)

Release date: 23/5/2023

80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. Cask sample. Deep colour. Aromatically intense – dark fruit with a menthol note. Gourmand fruit on the palate, the chocolaty oak integrated. Climbs a rung in80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. Cask sample. Deep colour. Aromatically intense – dark fruit with a menthol note. Gourmand fruit on the palate, the chocolaty oak integrated. Climbs a rung in terms of texture of tannin (compared with Domaine de Cambes), the sensation velvety and smooth. Chalky finish, the alcohol just perceptible. (JL) 15% Drinking range: 2028 - 2038 Rating: 16.5+ James Lawther MW, www.JancisRobinson.com (May 2023)

Release date: 23/5/2023

80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. Cask sample. Ripe but refined with luscious fruit and freshness as well. Added note of complexity so not just the expression of fruit. Could be heady but handles the80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. Cask sample. Ripe but refined with luscious fruit and freshness as well. Added note of complexity so not just the expression of fruit. Could be heady but handles the alcohol well. Delicious. (JL) 15% Drinking range: 2026 - 2034 Rating: 16.5 James Lawther MW, www.JancisRobinson.com (May 2023)

Release date: 23/5/2023

Both the suavest and the most exotic cuvée in the Mitjaville portfolio, the 2022 Le Tertre Roteboeuf is a full-bodied, supple and fleshy wine evocative of blackberries, espresso roast, rose petals,Both the suavest and the most exotic cuvée in the Mitjaville portfolio, the 2022 Le Tertre Roteboeuf is a full-bodied, supple and fleshy wine evocative of blackberries, espresso roast, rose petals, spices and smoked meats. Concentrated, refined and seamless, it concludes with a long, aromatic finish. Readers might think of it as a cousin of the 2009 vintage, with its sweetness of fruit but rather ethereal, harmonious profile, which stands in contrast with more overtly powerful years, such as 2020 or 2010. Rating: 95-97 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

Release date: 23/5/2023

Concentrated damson colour, perfumed floral aromatics, brushed velvet tannins, hit of baked cherry, peach pit and bitter chocolate gives a lovely tension and lift alongside the intense ripe fruitConcentrated damson colour, perfumed floral aromatics, brushed velvet tannins, hit of baked cherry, peach pit and bitter chocolate gives a lovely tension and lift alongside the intense ripe fruit flavours. Tannins are elongated, with grip, and this has plenty of personality and balance, takes the imprint of the vintage but gives it a limestone twist, and will age extremely well. Family Bich. Axel Marchal consultant since 2019, 32.1ha, 32% new oak, plus 4% terracotta amphora. Around 80% of 1st wine. 3.65ph. 2022 marks the second year of Château de Ferrand’s organic conversion, and is the earliest-ripening vintage in the estate’s history, with harvest stretching from September 5 to October 5. Gonzague de Lambert director. Rating: 94 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2023)

Release date: 23/5/2023

Floral notes on the aromatics, shows the heavy spice of the vintage with black pepper, rosemary and turmeric notes, begins to lift through the palate as it opens. An unusual spot in Franc Côtes deFloral notes on the aromatics, shows the heavy spice of the vintage with black pepper, rosemary and turmeric notes, begins to lift through the palate as it opens. An unusual spot in Franc Côtes de Bordeaux with a lot of clay in the soils, and this is powerful and concentrated, with a flash of heat on the finish. 12ha vineyard, entirely clay, entirely Merlot, organic since 2018, no till farming, 25hl/h yield. Harvest September 7 to 12, to be aged 80% large oak casks (no new oak), 10% one year old, 10% neutral oak and amphora. Drinking range: 2024 - 2030 Rating: 92 Jane Anson, Decanter (May 2023)

Release date: 17/5/2023

A velvety red with lovely creamy tannins, juicy fruit with black berries, spice, ink and boysenberry. Medium to full body with a solid structured and depth. Velvety texture. Hints of sea salt.A velvety red with lovely creamy tannins, juicy fruit with black berries, spice, ink and boysenberry. Medium to full body with a solid structured and depth. Velvety texture. Hints of sea salt. Rating: 94-95 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2023)

Release date: 17/5/2023

A blend of 64% Cabernet Franc, 30% Merlot and 6% old vine Malbec vinified with whole bunches, the 2022 Jean Faure wafts from the glass with characteristically complex aromas of rose petals, darkA blend of 64% Cabernet Franc, 30% Merlot and 6% old vine Malbec vinified with whole bunches, the 2022 Jean Faure wafts from the glass with characteristically complex aromas of rose petals, dark berries, plums, violets, vine smoke and licorice. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and seamless, it's suave and textural, with a layered core of fruit, powdery structuring tannins and a bright, mouthwatering finish. Rating: 93-95 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

Release date: 16/5/2023

98% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc. Cask sample. Fragrant. Sleek and more fruity than tannic with quite a bit of acidity. Just a little mean, which is unusual in 2022. 14.5%98% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc. Cask sample. Fragrant. Sleek and more fruity than tannic with quite a bit of acidity. Just a little mean, which is unusual in 2022. 14.5% Drinking range: 2026 - 2034 Rating: 15.5 Jancis Robinson OBE MW - www.JancisRobinson.com (May 2023)

Release date: 16/5/2023

70% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. 50% new oak. 14.28% alc. 3.83 pH. 30 hl/ha. I am usually somewhat perplexed by Monbousquet, as the oak often dominates, and in70% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. 50% new oak. 14.28% alc. 3.83 pH. 30 hl/ha. I am usually somewhat perplexed by Monbousquet, as the oak often dominates, and in 2022 it is undoubtedly present, but the fruit is more than robust enough to offset this attack. As always, the theme is black cherries, and the Cabernets here help to heighten the nose and bring some class to the perfume. This successful wine will mature slowly as the tannins are rich and sour. Fear not, this is a big and expressive wine, but it is also a balanced one and my favourite Monbousquet to date. Rating: 17+ Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (May 2023)

Release date: 16/5/2023

The 2022 Berliquet is super-concentrated, dark and ripe, but also without the forbidding tannins of the past. Succulent plum fruit, mocha, licorice and dried herbs are some of the many notes thatThe 2022 Berliquet is super-concentrated, dark and ripe, but also without the forbidding tannins of the past. Succulent plum fruit, mocha, licorice and dried herbs are some of the many notes that grace this gorgeous Saint-Émilion. It will be interesting to see where the 2022 ends up post élevage. Today it is full-bodied and quite opulent. Tasted four times. Drinking range: 2028 - 2042 Rating: 91-93 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2023)

Release date: 15/5/2023

The 2022 Fombrauge displays a deep and complex yet oaky bouquet with aromas of cassis, spices, graphite and fresh tobacco. Firm and dense, concentrated and fleshy, the palate is medium toThe 2022 Fombrauge displays a deep and complex yet oaky bouquet with aromas of cassis, spices, graphite and fresh tobacco. Firm and dense, concentrated and fleshy, the palate is medium to full-bodied, chunky and heavily extracted. This demonstrative, modern-styled wine is a blend of 71% Merlot and 29% Cabernet Franc. Rating: 88-90 Yohan Castaing, www.robertparker.com (Apr 2023)

Release date: 12/5/2023

We are huge fans of Château Mangot and were delighted to find another fabulous effort in 2022. Classified this year as Grand Cru Classé - they are displaying all the grandeur and suave sophisticationWe are huge fans of Château Mangot and were delighted to find another fabulous effort in 2022. Classified this year as Grand Cru Classé - they are displaying all the grandeur and suave sophistication you would hope for. Impressive feel, lovely core of ripe and yet juicy dark berries, morello cherry flesh and a scent of dried petals too adds refinement. There is a good, chalky scrape of uber-fine-grained tannins. Clean, cool lines carry the delicious fruit load forward with great energy and finesse. This will unfurl nicely over the next 5-10 years.L&S (Apr 2023)

Release date: 10/5/2023

This is a really racy red with blackberries and mineral. Salty undertones. Medium to full body. Really solid and precise in the center palate. Long and racy. 82% merlot, 14% cabernet franc, and 4%This is a really racy red with blackberries and mineral. Salty undertones. Medium to full body. Really solid and precise in the center palate. Long and racy. 82% merlot, 14% cabernet franc, and 4% petit verdot. From organically grown grapes. Rating: 95-96 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2023)

Release date: 10/5/2023

Delightful crunch of firm plum. Bright cherry. Lovely acidity and so well poised. Peppy, bright fruit, lovely mineral purity builds. A herb note and good floral lift. Long and seriously impressiveDelightful crunch of firm plum. Bright cherry. Lovely acidity and so well poised. Peppy, bright fruit, lovely mineral purity builds. A herb note and good floral lift. Long and seriously impressive with fine cocoa-powder tannins. 75% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc. Harvest started 27th September and finished the 5th October. This helped retain the freshness in the Cabernet Franc. 80 year old vines. 40% new wood. But all in big barrels (demi-Muids).L&S (Apr 2023)

Release date: 10/5/2023

85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Carmenere Lovely. Great attack nicely rich but not overripe - just soft cherry and plum fruit. Spiced too - nicely balanced, Finishes on a more serious85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Carmenere Lovely. Great attack nicely rich but not overripe - just soft cherry and plum fruit. Spiced too - nicely balanced, Finishes on a more serious note, darker and sophisticated restraint.L&S (Apr 2023)

Release date: 10/5/2023

85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc. Such sophistication on the nose. Then palate fills with glorious spiced notes - like an old church with incense and wood spice. Broad but bright. Whiff of cocoa85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc. Such sophistication on the nose. Then palate fills with glorious spiced notes - like an old church with incense and wood spice. Broad but bright. Whiff of cocoa adds a sweet nuanced note - but this is lithe and joyously smart. Richer than some - but well done. A great wine from the Ausone team.L&S (Apr 2023)

Release date: 10/5/2023

80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Tasted in the line up at Château Ausone. Wonderful nose. Loaded with great floral aromatics and nicely ripened, small dark berries. Lovely polish and push. Just so80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Tasted in the line up at Château Ausone. Wonderful nose. Loaded with great floral aromatics and nicely ripened, small dark berries. Lovely polish and push. Just so well judged. Plum, cherry skin and wonderful energy. Pert, yet full and nice breadth. There is both energy and impact - great.L&S (Apr 2023)

Release date: 9/5/2023

So many beautiful primary fruit aromas. Al dente. Peaches. Very floral. Aromatic. Full-bodied and extremely fine tannins with length and beauty that show incredible depth. Superb brightness andSo many beautiful primary fruit aromas. Al dente. Peaches. Very floral. Aromatic. Full-bodied and extremely fine tannins with length and beauty that show incredible depth. Superb brightness and reality. Exciting. Cabernet franc freshness and dynamics come through now, even though the blend is 60% merlot and 40% cabernet franc. Rating: 98-99 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2023)

Release date: 9/5/2023

A real standout in 2022, Cheval Blanc is hugely successful. The sensation is one of slickness - joyfully broad and sweeping up front - but with a dark, serious line underpinning the whole. Just soA real standout in 2022, Cheval Blanc is hugely successful. The sensation is one of slickness - joyfully broad and sweeping up front - but with a dark, serious line underpinning the whole. Just so approachable. Gorgeously pert dark berries, with the freshness of blueberry too, a citrus splash and a delicate waft of humidor. All delivered with real flair and sophistication, bright lines keep this charging through the palate. Almost irresistible already, full bore, and yet so refined. Really charming, loaded with structure and tannins but they are so fine, so polished that you just want more. They started picking on the 29th of August, which helped capture that freshness, and were finished by the 20th September, including a 10 day break between the early Merlot and the Cabernet. Healthy fruit from their bio-diverse vineyard proved very resilient to the conditions. Judged just right, this is a gem. There is no Petit Cheval this year - as the quality of fruit was so high they used it in the Grand Vin, which must help negate the small crop. (28 HL/HA as opposed to a more normal 35 HL/HA). 53% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Franc and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon.L&S (May 2023)

Chewy tannins, densely packed black cherry and raspberry, sappy tannins with edges of chalk and slate. This is really rather beautiful, an exceptional vintage of this wine, and should be great valueChewy tannins, densely packed black cherry and raspberry, sappy tannins with edges of chalk and slate. This is really rather beautiful, an exceptional vintage of this wine, and should be great value from the Thienpont family. 37.5hl/h yield, 25% oak, and the rest in casks and cement. Stéphane Derenoncourt consultant. Drinking range: 2026 - 2038 Rating: 93 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (Jun 2023)

Ripe and mellow with dark berry and chocolate undertones. Medium-bodied. Creamy and a little ripe.Ripe and mellow with dark berry and chocolate undertones. Medium-bodied. Creamy and a little ripe. Rating: 89-90 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2023)

90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc. 45-50% new oak and then steel for the rest including all the Cabernet Franc. 14.5% alc. 3.65 pH. Carillon is indulgent, sexy, complete and layered in 2022,90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc. 45-50% new oak and then steel for the rest including all the Cabernet Franc. 14.5% alc. 3.65 pH. Carillon is indulgent, sexy, complete and layered in 2022, and it is a direct result of the three parcels of vines that make up its blend. One plot lies between Figeac and Cheval Blanc (sexy, juicy and aromatic), the second faces Fonroque (strict, limestone, low pH, concentrated tannins), and the third is between Angélus and Canon (deep clay with limestone), and this glues the whole experience together. Carillon is designed to bring immediate pleasure to the drinker, and in 2022 it aces this desire because this is a stunningly rewarding wine. Even though the fruit notes are precocious, there is a decent engine here that will allow this wine to age perfectly, so there is no rush to crack on with this wine. Rating: 18+ Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (May 2023)

The 2022 Bellefont-Belcier is quite dark and somber. In recent years, Bellefont is not as brooding as it once was, which is a positive, but the dark, introspective nature remains. Plum, chocolate,The 2022 Bellefont-Belcier is quite dark and somber. In recent years, Bellefont is not as brooding as it once was, which is a positive, but the dark, introspective nature remains. Plum, chocolate, licorice, espresso and incense are some of the many notes that open with a bit of coaxing. There’s certainly plenty of depth, yet the 2022 is on the understated side at this stage. Tasted two times. Drinking range: 2027 - 2047 Rating: 91-93 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2023)

84% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc. Vines over 60 years old. Cask sample. Very fresh, quite complex nose. Sweet, opulent start to the palate and lots of polish. Quite84% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc. Vines over 60 years old. Cask sample. Very fresh, quite complex nose. Sweet, opulent start to the palate and lots of polish. Quite sophisticated wine with lots of palate impact. Not heavy at all and the tannins are well covered by the fruit. Neat finish with some sinewy character. Drinking range: 2026 - 2040 Rating: 16.5 James Lawther MW, www.JancisRobinson.com (May 2023)

80% Cabernet Franc, 20% Merlot. 80% new oak. 15.1% alc. 3.72 pH. This is the photographic negative of Vieux Château Mazerat from the same portfolio, and while the tannins are insanely80% Cabernet Franc, 20% Merlot. 80% new oak. 15.1% alc. 3.72 pH. This is the photographic negative of Vieux Château Mazerat from the same portfolio, and while the tannins are insanely attacking and arresting, the fruit gives as good as it gets, and the resulting balance is exquisite. This has a Barolo-like silhouette, and the grandstanding tannins soak up the 20% Merlot, and this just about keeps it all on an even keel. The glorious nose points to a magnificent future, and while it is difficult to predict what will happen next, this will also be a big, showy and super-intense wine. Rating: 19+ Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (May 2023)

63% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Cabernet Franc. Cask sample. Lifted and linear with crunchy, juicy fruit. Tannins ripe and supple. Appealing wine for relatively early drinking. (JL)63% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Cabernet Franc. Cask sample. Lifted and linear with crunchy, juicy fruit. Tannins ripe and supple. Appealing wine for relatively early drinking. (JL) Drinking range: 2026 - 2034 Rating: 16 James Lawther MW, www.JancisRobinson.com (May 2023)

80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. 25% new oak & 15% foudres, 60% 1st and 2nd year barrels. 15% alc. 39 hl/ha. 3.45 pH. 88000 bottles produced. Harvested between 10 September – 380% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. 25% new oak & 15% foudres, 60% 1st and 2nd year barrels. 15% alc. 39 hl/ha. 3.45 pH. 88000 bottles produced. Harvested between 10 September – 3 October. This is the year in which TSC has recognised its potential. The perfume, fruit and finish are all sensational, and the resonance and purity here are tremendous, too. Fresh, clean, bright and lifted, the edges of this wine are pristine, but the well of core fruit is simply brilliant. I know that the setting here is fantastic, but I have yet to taste a wine that genuinely sings, and in 2022 this property finally discovered its magic. Rating: 18.5+ Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (May 2023)

Dark and ripe on the nose, tangy and fresh, a lovely clean, crisp aspect to the strawberry, red cherry and creamy vanilla blueberries giving freshness and cool minerality. Well delivered, has a styleDark and ripe on the nose, tangy and fresh, a lovely clean, crisp aspect to the strawberry, red cherry and creamy vanilla blueberries giving freshness and cool minerality. Well delivered, has a style about this with definition and detail and above all really appealing acidity that gives lift and a lot of life. Should round out nicely offering lots of easy drinking appeal and unfussy enjoyment. 3.5pH. 3.7 g/L total acidity. Ageing for 12 months, 50% new barrels, 50% steel. Harvest September 6 - September 28. HVE3 certified. Drinking range: 2025 - 2039 Rating: 92 Georgie Hindle - Decanter (May 2023)

Vibrant ruby red in colour, with a chalky edge to the tannins that gives welcome contrast and relief. The limestone influence is clear, and it's a luscious, wel-judged wine. 80% new oak, 3.65PH. ThisVibrant ruby red in colour, with a chalky edge to the tannins that gives welcome contrast and relief. The limestone influence is clear, and it's a luscious, wel-judged wine. 80% new oak, 3.65PH. This is now a private label wine. Drinking range: 2027 - 2042 Rating: 94 Jane Anson, Decanter (May 2023)

There is no Le Petit Cheval this year. There is no Le Petit Cheval this year. Rating: 0 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (May 2023)

The 2022 Vieux Château Mazerat is aged in 80% new oak and is the most powerful amongst Jonathan Maltus's wines this year. This has a nicely detailed nose considering that it has 15.5% alcohol, blackThe 2022 Vieux Château Mazerat is aged in 80% new oak and is the most powerful amongst Jonathan Maltus's wines this year. This has a nicely detailed nose considering that it has 15.5% alcohol, black cherries and boysenberry fruit, violets and kirsch. The palate is full-bodied with blackberry and boysenberry fruit, sweet and candied although the finish feels just a little cloying. Yet there is a sense of joie-de-vivre and without sounding pejorative, I can imagine quaffing this at a barbecue. Drinking range: 2026 - 2042 Rating: 89-91 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (May 2023)

The 2022 Valandraud Blanc was picked 1-13 September and matured in 80% new oak. It has a vivacious nose with gooseberry, citrus fruit, Vervane and light crushed rock scents. The palate is wellThe 2022 Valandraud Blanc was picked 1-13 September and matured in 80% new oak. It has a vivacious nose with gooseberry, citrus fruit, Vervane and light crushed rock scents. The palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, taut and fresh with a smooth, waxy-textured finish. Lovely build to this white Valandraud with a touch of wild peach popping up on the aftertaste. Very fine. Drinking range: 2027 - 2042 Rating: 92-94 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (May 2023)