Saint Émilion & Satellites

Release date: 17/6/2022

Cyrille Thienpont is in charge here, and he has teased out attractive blueberry fruits, along with graphite, pencil lead and gunsmoke. Chalky tannins reflect the clay-limestone soils, this is full ofCyrille Thienpont is in charge here, and he has teased out attractive blueberry fruits, along with graphite, pencil lead and gunsmoke. Chalky tannins reflect the clay-limestone soils, this is full of pleasure, even while austerity is gripping the finish. Highest percentage of Cabernet Franc to date, after including recent plantings. 50% new oak. Harvest October 2 to 16. Drinking range: 2026 - 2036 Rating: 90 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2022)

Release date: 17/6/2022

Beautifully poised, dark ruby in colour, full of rippled fruit flavours, stands out in the appellation. It hasn't got miraculously riper than all the rest but it is handled with skill, and has aBeautifully poised, dark ruby in colour, full of rippled fruit flavours, stands out in the appellation. It hasn't got miraculously riper than all the rest but it is handled with skill, and has a truly juicy mouthwatering finish and slate tannins that show grip and tenacity against the serious, austere structure. Expect raspberry, greengage and redcurrant fruits that need to fatten out a little over ageing, but everything is in place to do so. This is the plateau speaking. 37hl/h yield, harvest October 4 to 19, 50% new oak. Tasted twice. Drinking range: 2026 - 2042 Rating: 94 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2022)

Release date: 17/6/2022

Lovely aromatics right off the bat, good spice, white peppers, touches of savoury cassis. This 71% mix of the two Cabernets is the highest ever at Figeac, and you feel it in this savoury, rosebud,Lovely aromatics right off the bat, good spice, white peppers, touches of savoury cassis. This 71% mix of the two Cabernets is the highest ever at Figeac, and you feel it in this savoury, rosebud, leafy character to the palate, brilliantly handled and one of the wines of the vintage. This delivers careful balance, sculpted fruits, with a juicy finish. 100% new oak. Romain Jean-Pierre technical director. 38hl/h yield, harvest September 21 to October 19 (with a three week gap between Merlot and Cabernet). 3.65ph. First vintage with the new cellar. 70% production into Figeac, 8% press wine. Tasted twice, excellent quality. Drinking range: 2028 - 2044 Rating: 97 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2022)

Release date: 15/6/2022

You're not going to get the same opulence of the past five years, but this is entirely successful in terms of harmony, elegance and finesse. A jolt of limestone salinity, lemongrass, oyster shell,You're not going to get the same opulence of the past five years, but this is entirely successful in terms of harmony, elegance and finesse. A jolt of limestone salinity, lemongrass, oyster shell, violets, rose petals, and a subtle but moreish wave of cigar box and graphite smoke. Unrolls slowly but surely, with evident ripeness to the red fruits, and salt-cracker salinity on the finish. Harvest September 30 to October 10 (able to do so because they got only 10mm of rain at the end of September), 28hl/h yield, 58% new oak. Camille Devillenaut co-technical director with Josephine Duffau-Lagarrosse, coming over from Château Villemaurine. Tasted twice. First year with Axel Marchal as consultant, working alongside Michel Rolland (Julien Viaud), replacing the Nicolas Thienpont team. Drinking range: 2026 - 2040 Rating: 94 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2022)

Release date: 14/6/2022

Aromas of deep berry fruit, dark chocolate, subtle spices and dried flowers introduce the 2021 Beau-Séjour Bécot, a medium to full-bodied, velvety and seamless wine that's lively and layered, with aAromas of deep berry fruit, dark chocolate, subtle spices and dried flowers introduce the 2021 Beau-Séjour Bécot, a medium to full-bodied, velvety and seamless wine that's lively and layered, with a deep core of fruit, ripe tannins and a long, saline finish. Cropped at 35 hectoliters per hectare, and based on Merlot with some 13% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon in a supporting role, its quality reflects a growing season of relentless efforts and the impact of extra sorting equipment rented on the eve of harvest. Rating: 93-95+ William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (May 2022)

Release date: 14/6/2022

The 2021 Les Grandes Murailles is terrific. Open and resonant in the glass, the 2021 offers a beguiling mix of red/purplish fruit, rose petal, lavender, sage and mint, with veins of salinity thatThe 2021 Les Grandes Murailles is terrific. Open and resonant in the glass, the 2021 offers a beguiling mix of red/purplish fruit, rose petal, lavender, sage and mint, with veins of salinity that lend energy as well as direction. It's all about nuance here. As is so often the case, Les Grandes Murailles captures many of the signatures of the more famous wines on the Saint-Émilion plateau, but in miniature. Drinking range: 2026 - 2038 Rating: 91-93 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2022)

Release date: 14/6/2022

A blend of 90% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc, the 2021 Clos Fourtet offers up inviting aromas of wild berries and plums mingled with hints of black truffle, violets, potpourriA blend of 90% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc, the 2021 Clos Fourtet offers up inviting aromas of wild berries and plums mingled with hints of black truffle, violets, potpourri and dark chocolate. Medium to full-bodied, supple and enveloping, it's lively and layered, with beautifully refined tannins, bright acids and a long, sapid finish. Harvest lasted until October 15, which shows in unusual depth and plenitude for the vintage. Tasted three times. Rating: 93-95 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)

Release date: 13/6/2022

Not giving too much away yet but there are layers here, and plump if restrained fruit, lots of white pepper, blueberry, blackcurrant. We are still in sculpted, subdued territory, but this is lusciousNot giving too much away yet but there are layers here, and plump if restrained fruit, lots of white pepper, blueberry, blackcurrant. We are still in sculpted, subdued territory, but this is luscious and finessed and has all the elements to plump out over ageing. Clear salinity, oyster shell and crushed rocks. To achieve this, they chose not to use their plots right on the austere limestone plateau, but selected from the richer clay 'molasses de fronsadais' on the slopes, and also not from the sandier areas at the bottom of the slopes. 34hl/h yield, 65% 1st wine a little less than usual, 50% new oak. Harvest September 29 to October 11. Tasted three times, excellent quality. Drinking range: 2026 - 2042 Rating: 94 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2022)

Release date: 9/6/2022

Inviting aromas of berries and plums mingled with vine smoke, spices and loamy soil introduce the 2021 Chapelle d'Ausone, a medium to full-bodied, melting and precise wine that's pretty and seamless,Inviting aromas of berries and plums mingled with vine smoke, spices and loamy soil introduce the 2021 Chapelle d'Ausone, a medium to full-bodied, melting and precise wine that's pretty and seamless, with lively acids and a long, penetrating finish. As usual, it's a blend of wine from young vines with a few barriques of declassified Ausone. Rating: 91-93 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (May 2022)

Release date: 9/6/2022

A blend of 65% Cabernet Franc, harvested 4-6 October, and 35% Merlot, harvested on 30 September, the 2021 Ausone is deep purple-black colored. The nose absolutely pops with bright, super-fresh notesA blend of 65% Cabernet Franc, harvested 4-6 October, and 35% Merlot, harvested on 30 September, the 2021 Ausone is deep purple-black colored. The nose absolutely pops with bright, super-fresh notes of redcurrants, juicy raspberries, blackberries, and violets, plus suggestions of plums, baking spices, lavender, and tar with a touch of pencil shavings. Medium-bodied, the palate has a concentrated, well-sustained mid-palate of electrically charged red berry layers with loads of mineral accents and fine-grained tannins, delivering incredible tension and energy on the long, energetic vintage. This is an absolute triumph in this vintage.
Only La Clotte, Chapelle d’Ausone, and Ausone were shown as barrel samples during Primeurs this year because the production of the other wines, due to frost and mildew, was so low there was not much to sell. “We worked a lot,” Pauline Vauthier told me. “We did BIG selection. The yields were so low we produced very few bottles. We had to adapt our technique of winemaking for this vintage. This year, Chapelle d’Ausone is a very unusual blend because all the good Merlot was used for Ausone.” In the end, Pauline said they will make around 16,000 bottles of Ausone (vs. 20,000 in an average year) and just 2,000 bottles of Chapelle (vs. 8000 in an average year). “We prefer to have fewer bottles but good wine. This standard is necessary for our customers. Ausone has to be good no matter the vintage,” she said. When I asked Pauline if she performed any saignée or chaptalization, she said, “No. We could have increased the alcohol by 0.5 degrees, but we didn’t do it.” The resulting alcohol is 12.8%. The wine is elegant, intense, and beautifully balanced with all the energy of a toned, muscular young thoroughbred. Nicely done. Drinking range: 2029 - 2059 Rating: 95-97 Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, The Wine Independent (May 2022)

Release date: 9/6/2022

This is very tangy and bright with real cabernet franc character, showing currant, orange and fresh-herb notes. Medium body with wonderful energy and acidity. Fine tannins. Racy and juicy. 54%This is very tangy and bright with real cabernet franc character, showing currant, orange and fresh-herb notes. Medium body with wonderful energy and acidity. Fine tannins. Racy and juicy. 54% cabernet franc, 45% merlot, and 1% cabernet sauvignon. Rating: 94-95 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2022)

Release date: 8/6/2022

There’s a level of brilliance to this, with blackberries and tar, as well as black licorice and spices. Medium body, integrated tannins and a fresh finish. All together.There’s a level of brilliance to this, with blackberries and tar, as well as black licorice and spices. Medium body, integrated tannins and a fresh finish. All together. Rating: 93-94 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2022)

Release date: 8/6/2022

A notable success in this vintage, the 2021 La Gaffelière offers up aromas of sweet cherries and berries mingled with notions of licorice, loamy soil and spices. Medium to full-bodied, seamless andA notable success in this vintage, the 2021 La Gaffelière offers up aromas of sweet cherries and berries mingled with notions of licorice, loamy soil and spices. Medium to full-bodied, seamless and enveloping, it's supple and charming, with a fleshy core of fruit, lively acids and ripe, powdery tannins, concluding with impressive persistence. Tasted four times, twice at the château. Rating: 92-94 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (May 2022)

Release date: 8/6/2022

A brilliant wine in the making, the 2021 Canon offers up aromas of cherries, wild berries, licorice, sweet soil tones, raw cocoa, Indian spices and rose petals. Medium to full-bodied, layered andA brilliant wine in the making, the 2021 Canon offers up aromas of cherries, wild berries, licorice, sweet soil tones, raw cocoa, Indian spices and rose petals. Medium to full-bodied, layered and multidimensional, it's immensely refined and seamless, with a lively spine of acidity, ripe tannins and a long, penetrating, intensely saline finish. This beautifully balanced Canon is one of the classiest, most complete wines of the Right Bank in this vintage. Tasted four times. Rating: 94-96 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)

Release date: 8/6/2022

Attractive fruit with red berries and hints of flower and stems, following through to a medium body, soft tannins and a juicy finish. From organically grown grapes.Attractive fruit with red berries and hints of flower and stems, following through to a medium body, soft tannins and a juicy finish. From organically grown grapes. Rating: 90-91 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2022)

Release date: 7/6/2022

59 Merlot, 23 Cabernet Franc, 18 Cabernet Sauvignon | Less than one third new oak – 500l barrels for 12 months and foudre. | 13% alc | 18 hl/ha While the Merlot at Quinault L’Enclos was harvested59 Merlot, 23 Cabernet Franc, 18 Cabernet Sauvignon | Less than one third new oak – 500l barrels for 12 months and foudre. | 13% alc | 18 hl/ha While the Merlot at Quinault L’Enclos was harvested in ‘just ripe’ conditions, the Cabernet was fleshy, smooth and ripe. The result is a nicely-weighted and well-balanced wine with a smooth and uncomplicated palate. Rating: 16.5 Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (Jun 2022)

Release date: 7/6/2022

Brightness and freshness here, with light orange-peel, blackcurrant and earth, Lots of flowers, too. Medium-bodied, refined and very pretty. 80% merlot and 20% cabernet franc.Brightness and freshness here, with light orange-peel, blackcurrant and earth, Lots of flowers, too. Medium-bodied, refined and very pretty. 80% merlot and 20% cabernet franc. Rating: 93-94 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2022)

Release date: 7/6/2022

A blend of 85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2% Cabernet Franc, the 2021 Troplong Mondot is deep garnet-purple colored. Energetic notes of baked plums, wild strawberries, and black raspberriesA blend of 85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2% Cabernet Franc, the 2021 Troplong Mondot is deep garnet-purple colored. Energetic notes of baked plums, wild strawberries, and black raspberries jump from the glass, followed by hints of tar, licorice, black olives, and truffles. Medium-bodied, the palate is plush and energetic, with a lively line and long minerally finish.
“There was no frost and no mildew here in Troplong Mondot,” said the estate’s CEO Aymeric de Gironde. “We had good yields—47 hl/ha. We harvested from 17th of September to 19th of October. Early on we realized it would be a non-solar vintage. A lot of interest and complexity would need to be built in the blending. The clay gave us the density we needed. It was the first time we used the new vat room. This helped us to deal with the year. We moved from 20 to 42 tanks. We chaptalized one tank, adding half a degree of alcohol.” Drinking range: 2026 - 2043 Rating: 90-92 Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, The Wine Independent (May 2022)

Release date: 2/6/2022

A refined and firm-tannined red with violets, tangerines and blue fruit. Medium-bodied, tight and compact palate with everything in place. Elegance with structure.A refined and firm-tannined red with violets, tangerines and blue fruit. Medium-bodied, tight and compact palate with everything in place. Elegance with structure. Rating: 95-96 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2022)

Release date: 2/6/2022

80 Merlot, 20 Cabernet Franc | 30% new oak | 13% alc | Harvested between 1 to 10 October | Organic certified A charming Clos de l’Oratoire with lovely purity and fragrance and crunchy drying tannins80 Merlot, 20 Cabernet Franc | 30% new oak | 13% alc | Harvested between 1 to 10 October | Organic certified A charming Clos de l’Oratoire with lovely purity and fragrance and crunchy drying tannins on the finish perfectly offset the nose’s exuberance. Well made, resonant, nicely juicy and welcoming and with enough gravitas and detail to allow it to age graciously. Rating: 17 Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (Jun 2022)

Release date: 2/6/2022

45 Cabernet Franc, 35 Merlot, 20 Cabernet Sauvignon | 40% new oak | 13% alc | Certified Organic | The harvest took place between 28 September and 14 October. There is a balance between the45 Cabernet Franc, 35 Merlot, 20 Cabernet Sauvignon | 40% new oak | 13% alc | Certified Organic | The harvest took place between 28 September and 14 October. There is a balance between the piercingly fresh perfume with violets and fresh tobacco tones and the severely tense, mineral-drenched finish. In between, there is a silky luge of plum fruit that races across the palate. I do not doubt that this mid-palate will build and build, and, as I taste and swirl, I can unlock tightly bound fruit notes that will relax over time and add flesh and silkiness to the whole. Beautiful and restrained, this is a hidden gem in 2021 and a wine that demands time, and this sets it apart from the hordes of more forward candidates. Rating: 18+ Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (Jun 2022)

Release date: 2/6/2022

A very pretty and tight d'Aiguilhe with citrus, dark-fruit and salty undertones. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a long, racy finish. Compact palate.A very pretty and tight d'Aiguilhe with citrus, dark-fruit and salty undertones. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a long, racy finish. Compact palate. Rating: 91-92 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2022)

Release date: 1/6/2022

The 2021 Grand Mayne is a success, unwinding in the glass with aromas of cherries, blackberries, sweet soil tones and creamy new oak. Medium to full-bodied, lively and supple, with a fleshy core ofThe 2021 Grand Mayne is a success, unwinding in the glass with aromas of cherries, blackberries, sweet soil tones and creamy new oak. Medium to full-bodied, lively and supple, with a fleshy core of fruit, ripe tannins and succulent acids, it represents a strong performance. Tasted three times. Rating: 90-91 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)

Release date: 30/5/2022

Release date: 25/5/2022

Such a fresh and elegant nose, floral and lifted, so pure - a real clarity of aromas. Silky smooth on the palate, gentle in terms of texture but with a lovely core of flavour, succulent but also theSuch a fresh and elegant nose, floral and lifted, so pure - a real clarity of aromas. Silky smooth on the palate, gentle in terms of texture but with a lovely core of flavour, succulent but also the most delicate grip that just fills the mouth and gives the structure, expansiveness and length. It's well expressed, nothing too much, nothing standing out. Well worked with a pristine quality, really quite delicate - it's the flavors around the mouth rather than the weight which is so captivating. Graceful and yet there is power and ripeness as well as a hit of spice and minty crushed stone on the finish. Good balance and a fine effort in 2021. A yield of 26hl/ha. Drinking range: 2024 - 2030 Rating: 91 Georgie Hindle - Decanter (Apr 2022)

Release date: 25/5/2022

It's a brave estate that makes 100% 1st wine in the 2021 vintage, but Tertre Rotebeouf is perfectly placed on south-facing slopes, with obsessive attention to detail in the vineyard from theIt's a brave estate that makes 100% 1st wine in the 2021 vintage, but Tertre Rotebeouf is perfectly placed on south-facing slopes, with obsessive attention to detail in the vineyard from the Mitjavile family. One to look out for, this has rich aromatics, a touch of reduction, fleshy black cherry, smoked earth, powerful liquorice bud, rose petals and clove spice, expanding through the mid palate. Works both in terms of the estate signature and in showcasing the potential of the 2021 vintage for sculpted but still concentrated wines in the right spots. Brilliant stuff. No crushing of the grapes here but full destemming, no cold soaks, 16% press wine, 100% new oak. Drinking range: 2026 - 2040 Rating: 95 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2022)

Release date: 25/5/2022

The 2021 Roc de Cambes is shaping up beautifully, wafting from the glass with aromas of sweet berries, wild plums, rich cassis, pipe tobacco and espresso roast. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy andThe 2021 Roc de Cambes is shaping up beautifully, wafting from the glass with aromas of sweet berries, wild plums, rich cassis, pipe tobacco and espresso roast. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and textural, it's a rich, sensual wine with an elegantly muscular profile, its structuring tannins largely concealed by succulent fruit. Seamless and penetrating, it's an especially elegant rendition of this superb clay-limestone terroir in the Côtes de Bourg. Rating: 91-93 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)

Release date: 25/5/2022

80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc | 100% new oak | 13.7% alc. The ‘magical green dune’ note is present in this wine, and I love it when the fruit notes are spiked with this refreshing detail in this80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc | 100% new oak | 13.7% alc. The ‘magical green dune’ note is present in this wine, and I love it when the fruit notes are spiked with this refreshing detail in this vintage. This is a silky, medium-weight wine with beautiful control, and it is in a state of relaxation, such is the restraint and composure found from the nose to the finish. Cool, long and savoury, this is a contemplative wine and one that demands patience. You must be in the same mood as this wine when you pull the cork to get the most from the glass. While I sit on a step in Tertre Roteboeuf, writing this note and knowing I have a packed itinerary ahead of me, it isn’t easy to entirely compose myself. But this wine goes a long way to helping! Rating: 17.5 Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (Jun 2022)

Release date: 24/5/2022

A medium-bodied, elegant and fresh red with fine and silky tannins. Fresh acidity. Balanced and perfumed already with vibrant raspberry, blackberry and bark notes. Very citrusy. Linear and bright.A medium-bodied, elegant and fresh red with fine and silky tannins. Fresh acidity. Balanced and perfumed already with vibrant raspberry, blackberry and bark notes. Very citrusy. Linear and bright. Rating: 93-94 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2022)

Release date: 24/5/2022

A notable success in this vintage, the 2021 La Gaffelière offers up aromas of sweet cherries and berries mingled with notions of licorice, loamy soil and spices. Medium to full-bodied, seamless andA notable success in this vintage, the 2021 La Gaffelière offers up aromas of sweet cherries and berries mingled with notions of licorice, loamy soil and spices. Medium to full-bodied, seamless and enveloping, it's supple and charming, with a fleshy core of fruit, lively acids and ripe, powdery tannins, concluding with impressive persistence. Tasted four times, twice at the château. Rating: 92-93 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (May 2022)

Release date: 24/5/2022

A fruity and juicy red with plums and berries. Hints of earth, too. Medium body. Medium finish. Some savoriness.A fruity and juicy red with plums and berries. Hints of earth, too. Medium body. Medium finish. Some savoriness. Rating: 90-91 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2022)

Release date: 23/5/2022

75 Merlot, 20 Cabernet Franc, 5 Cabernet Sauvignon | 50% new oak | 14% alc | 43000 bottles were produced | The Merlot was picked between the 30 September to 8 October and the Cabernet Franc was75 Merlot, 20 Cabernet Franc, 5 Cabernet Sauvignon | 50% new oak | 14% alc | 43000 bottles were produced | The Merlot was picked between the 30 September to 8 October and the Cabernet Franc was picked on the 4 October and the Cabernet Sauvignon was picked on the 7 October. This is a spectacular Montlandrie. I often find this wine rather oppressively oaky and tannic in its youth, but this 2021 is exceptionally civilised, and while it is underpinned with tension and considerable potential, it is already easy to see the beautiful plum and cherry fruit as well as the earthiness and elemental power of its soils. This is a hidden weapon in 2021, and the flavour is akin to a cross between the luxury of Pomerol and the grandeur of Saint-Emilion. Do all you can to secure some stock. Rating: 17.5+ Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (Jun 2022)

Release date: 23/5/2022

Beautiful juice here, cool, measured, reserved, precise blue fruit and gunsmoke reduction, with sinew and just a touch of swagger. Harvest September 28 to October 11.Beautiful juice here, cool, measured, reserved, precise blue fruit and gunsmoke reduction, with sinew and just a touch of swagger. Harvest September 28 to October 11. Drinking range: 2026 - 2040 Rating: 92 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2022)

Release date: 23/5/2022

Reduction on the first nose, opens up to show a beautiful spiced plum character. This is a wine that often stands out En Primeur for its Petit Verdot, and needs time to soften up, but this isReduction on the first nose, opens up to show a beautiful spiced plum character. This is a wine that often stands out En Primeur for its Petit Verdot, and needs time to soften up, but this is exceptionally well-crafted, with juicy acidities, sinew muscles, plenty of peony and raspberry leaf floral aromatics, and dancing crushed rock minerality. Organic. Drinking range: 2026 - 2040 Rating: 92 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2022)

Release date: 23/5/2022

Angelus is a wine that really captured our imaginations in 2021 - far more perhaps than in the recent highly-prized trio of years. Showing a line of brightness and lifted purity that we love - itAngelus is a wine that really captured our imaginations in 2021 - far more perhaps than in the recent highly-prized trio of years. Showing a line of brightness and lifted purity that we love - it adds a glorious tension and energy to the super core of well ripened fruit. Sweet plum, ripe red cherry and then blue floral notes too. Packed with charm - but never sliding into over-richness. A wine that speaks of the vintage - for our minds the cool summer and troubled merlot has resulted in an Angelus with real flair and class in 2021. With highest ever proportion of Cabernet Franc this year too (60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot) it is an Angelus that really shines. L&S (Apr 2022)

Release date: 20/5/2022

Offering up aromas of sweet berries, cherries, warm spices and loamy soil, the 2021 de Ferrand is a medium to full-bodied, lively and incisive Saint-Emilion with a bright, limestone-driven profile.Offering up aromas of sweet berries, cherries, warm spices and loamy soil, the 2021 de Ferrand is a medium to full-bodied, lively and incisive Saint-Emilion with a bright, limestone-driven profile. It should evolve gracefully in barrel and in bottle. Rating: 89-90 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (May 2022)

Release date: 20/5/2022

Made from 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, the 2021 La Clotte is deep purple-black colored. It sails out of the glass with expressive notions of Morello cherries, fresh raspberries, and stewed redMade from 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, the 2021 La Clotte is deep purple-black colored. It sails out of the glass with expressive notions of Morello cherries, fresh raspberries, and stewed red plums, plus hints of spice cake and lavender. Medium-bodied, the palate is bright and refreshing with a good intensity of red berry flavors and a soft texture, finishing with an herbal lift. Drinking range: 2026 - 2041 Rating: 86-88 Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, The Wine Independent (May 2022)

Release date: 20/5/2022

A fresh and fruity red with blackberry and wet-earth character. Medium body, fine tannins and a creamy finish. Subtle sample.A fresh and fruity red with blackberry and wet-earth character. Medium body, fine tannins and a creamy finish. Subtle sample. Rating: 91-92 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2022)

Release date: 19/5/2022

Composed entirely of Cabernet Franc this year, the 2021 Todeschini Distique 14 wafts from the glass with aromas of dark berries, loamy soil, woodsmoke and spices. Medium to full-bodied, lively andComposed entirely of Cabernet Franc this year, the 2021 Todeschini Distique 14 wafts from the glass with aromas of dark berries, loamy soil, woodsmoke and spices. Medium to full-bodied, lively and seamless, with powdery tannins and bright acids, it's a strong effort. Rating: 90-92 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (May 2022)

Release date: 19/5/2022

Tasted on day 1 in Bordeaux, with much anticipation after the success it was last year. Pleasingly this is again beautifully put together. Richly laden with ripe berries and plump, sweet flesh - theTasted on day 1 in Bordeaux, with much anticipation after the success it was last year. Pleasingly this is again beautifully put together. Richly laden with ripe berries and plump, sweet flesh - the 2021 Mangot stays just on track with a firm frame too, tempering the full-blown mid-palate. An exuberant 2021, and still great value at this price level.
Clever élevage is the key to maintaining that impressive and attractive fruit bundle - with just 30% new oak being used, 40% in 1 and 2 year old barrels, 20% in amphora, 10% in stainless steel vats. 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. L&S (Apr 2022)

Release date: 19/5/2022

We had a fabulous tasting at Cheval Blanc this year. It's a big year for them in some ways - as they will bow out of the St Emilion classification system with their 2022 vintage - so this will be theWe had a fabulous tasting at Cheval Blanc this year. It's a big year for them in some ways - as they will bow out of the St Emilion classification system with their 2022 vintage - so this will be the last one labelled Grand Cru Classé 'A' and they are going out in style! 2021 also memorable as the first time they have used more Cabernet Franc than Merlot in the blend, with a whopping 52%. Opening with a joyous nose. Its all here and in check. Lovely weight and bounce. Just such sophisticated measure. Sleek, polished feel- but no bruiser, nice restraint too - not flashy just really charming. Wonderfully broad aromatic range. Red fruits, green herbs and lovely smart notes of elegant oak which builds to the finish. They expect a fairly long élevage, all in new oak - to help tame some of the more feisty structure and grip. This is a very successful St Emilion, whatever the vintage. L&S (Apr 2022)

Release date: 19/5/2022

60 Merlot, 33 Cabernet Sauvignon, 7 Cabernet Franc | 0% new oak for 12 months, 100% for CB | 13.1% alc | 13% production went into this wine, Cheval is 69, bulk wine is 18% Clean and bright, with a60 Merlot, 33 Cabernet Sauvignon, 7 Cabernet Franc | 0% new oak for 12 months, 100% for CB | 13.1% alc | 13% production went into this wine, Cheval is 69, bulk wine is 18% Clean and bright, with a stunning nose, this is a quietly pretty and demure wine with a refreshing finish. It is also long and refined, and, ignoring the fact that it is a second wine, the fruit-driven palate gives a sense of welcoming, marking this as a particularly forward Petit Cheval. Rating: 17 Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (Jun 2022)

Release date: 18/5/2022

70 Merlot, 15 Cabernet Franc, 15 Cabernet Sauvignon | 50% new oak | 13.7% alc | 18.55 hl/ha Rather firm and dry throughout, the oak seems to be more under control than of late, and the feeling of70 Merlot, 15 Cabernet Franc, 15 Cabernet Sauvignon | 50% new oak | 13.7% alc | 18.55 hl/ha Rather firm and dry throughout, the oak seems to be more under control than of late, and the feeling of tannin and skin-derived tension is also somewhat more relaxed. The fruit is a little muted, but there is a decent core of concentrated black cherry fruit, and this will inevitably even out over time. Rating: 16 Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (Jun 2022)

Release date: 18/5/2022

52 Merlot, 30 Cabernet Franc, 18 Cabernet Sauvignon | 75% new oak | 14.14% alc | 33 hl/ha. I find it baffling that the entire portfolio of Perse wines contains lovely fruit and, sadly, dominant and52 Merlot, 30 Cabernet Franc, 18 Cabernet Sauvignon | 75% new oak | 14.14% alc | 33 hl/ha. I find it baffling that the entire portfolio of Perse wines contains lovely fruit and, sadly, dominant and sometimes overpowering levels of oak. But when you climb to the top of the ladder, this wine is more than civilised, with fruit, oak, tannin and acidity all working together. This is a firm wine, of that, there is no doubt, and the greater theme this year is of wines with subtlety and composure, but there are always those extreme wines, and Pavie is usually one of them. But when this wine is truly balanced, and it has been in a rich vein of form recently, I have to commend its quality and potential. Extremely aromatic, focussed and opinionated, this is a structured and concentrated wine, but it retains a degree of class and freshness, too. Rating: 18 Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (Jun 2022)

Release date: 18/5/2022

Bright plum and raspberry puree flavours, this is a little tart in its acidities, but there are serious tannins alongside, and skilful construction by estate director Anthony Defives, with everythingBright plum and raspberry puree flavours, this is a little tart in its acidities, but there are serious tannins alongside, and skilful construction by estate director Anthony Defives, with everything in place to soften further over ageing, and an attractive curl of woodsmoke on the close of play. Harvest September 30 to October 18, 35% new oak. Tasted three times. Drinking range: 2025 - 2038 Rating: 90 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2022)

Release date: 11/5/2022

A strong performance from the Côtes de Castillon, the 2021 Clos Puy Arnaud is a blend of 50% Cabernet Franc, 45% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Revealing aromas of dark cherries, cassis, sweetA strong performance from the Côtes de Castillon, the 2021 Clos Puy Arnaud is a blend of 50% Cabernet Franc, 45% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Revealing aromas of dark cherries, cassis, sweet soil tones and spices, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and lively, with tangy acids and a long, saline finish. Rating: 89-91 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (May 2022)

A huge step up from No 3, you find far more depth through the palate here, with subdued power, black pepper and clove spice, sculpted, fresh and juicy with raspberry purée and gooseberry fruits. MoreA huge step up from No 3, you find far more depth through the palate here, with subdued power, black pepper and clove spice, sculpted, fresh and juicy with raspberry purée and gooseberry fruits. More graphite than I find in a normal year with this wine, and on-the-edge gunsmoke reduction, partly I am sure from the vintage, and partly from the added precision of the new 4,500m2 cellar. 60% new oak with the rest in stainless steel, 16hl/h yield. Drinking range: 2025 - 2036 Rating: 91 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2022)

Spared by the April frosts, the 2021 Bellefont Belcier has turned out brilliantly, exhibiting aromas of sweet berries and cherries mingled with hints of orange zest and violets, framed by a deftSpared by the April frosts, the 2021 Bellefont Belcier has turned out brilliantly, exhibiting aromas of sweet berries and cherries mingled with hints of orange zest and violets, framed by a deft touch of oak. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and seamless, it's deep and elegant, with refined tannins, fine concentration and a penetrating finish. Impressively, this 2021 appears to surpass the estate's 2018 in quality! Rating: 92-94 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (May 2022)

Including 5% each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc this year, the 2021 Croix de Labrie offers up aromas of dark berries, plums, red fruit compote, licorice and creamy new oak. Medium toIncluding 5% each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc this year, the 2021 Croix de Labrie offers up aromas of dark berries, plums, red fruit compote, licorice and creamy new oak. Medium to full-bodied, rich and velvety, it's a lively, rather muscular wine with a fleshy core of fruit, tangy acids and powdery tannins. It attained almost 14% alcohol and will see maturation in 80% new oak. Rating: 90-92 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (May 2022)

The 2021 Fonplégade offers up aromas of rich berry and cherry fruit framed by minty new oak. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and lively, it's generous and concentrated, albeit a touch marked by its 50%The 2021 Fonplégade offers up aromas of rich berry and cherry fruit framed by minty new oak. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and lively, it's generous and concentrated, albeit a touch marked by its 50% new oak at this early stage. Rating: 89-91 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (May 2022)

This is a densely packed wine with sooty tannins, and some charry oak notes and these elements add traction to the mouth-watering black fruit. This is a few shades darker than many Saint-Émilions,This is a densely packed wine with sooty tannins, and some charry oak notes and these elements add traction to the mouth-watering black fruit. This is a few shades darker than many Saint-Émilions, and it is an indulgent wine with decent impact and finely judged balance. It will open up early in its life to provide exotic drinking, and with coffee and chocolate hints, presumably due to the oak regime, it will appeal to fans of more expressive red wines. Rating: 17.5 Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (Jun 2022)

80 Cabernet Franc, 20 Merlot | 80% new oak | 13.4% alc | 3.71 pH Thanks to the viticultural challenges in 2021, Jonathan Maltus decided that his Les Astéries and Le Carré cuvées should be80 Cabernet Franc, 20 Merlot | 80% new oak | 13.4% alc | 3.71 pH Thanks to the viticultural challenges in 2021, Jonathan Maltus decided that his Les Astéries and Le Carré cuvées should be sacrificed and used in both Le Dôme and Vieux Château Mazerat. They are both small production wines in a typical vintage, so making micro-productions in 2021 did not make sense. Le Dôme was crying out for Cabernet Franc so that it could maintain its ‘80% recipe’, and it is clear that their portfolio pals’ selfless acts have further improved this wine and VCM. While VCM shows flesh and splendour, Le Dôme is a much stricter and more introverted beast. While this is another chapter in the great Le Dôme story, much of the credit must go to the stunning new winery in which it was made. Elegant and refined while at the same time elemental and imposing, this is a shockingly delicious wine in 2021. Rating: 18.5+ Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (Jun 2022)

Extremely focused and refined, with firm tannins that run the length of the wine. Medium-bodied with lovely length and juiciness. Blackberry and earth with mushroom and bark. Hints of orange peel,Extremely focused and refined, with firm tannins that run the length of the wine. Medium-bodied with lovely length and juiciness. Blackberry and earth with mushroom and bark. Hints of orange peel, too. 68.2% merlot, 31.3% cabernet franc and 0.5% malbec. Rating: 94-95 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2022)

This is already nicely salty and chalky with crushed stones. Medium-to full-bodied with medium, firm tannins and a medium, juicy finish.This is already nicely salty and chalky with crushed stones. Medium-to full-bodied with medium, firm tannins and a medium, juicy finish. Rating: 92-93 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (May 2022)

One of the most successful wines of the vintage. Welcoming aromatics, carefully handled, creamy raspberry and blackberry fruits, gentle toasted pine nuts and cigar box smoke. You still get theOne of the most successful wines of the vintage. Welcoming aromatics, carefully handled, creamy raspberry and blackberry fruits, gentle toasted pine nuts and cigar box smoke. You still get the lemongrass, slate tannins and acidites that are so signature to 2021, but also a sense of pull-and-push movement of the fleshy but fresh fruits through the palate, and hidden power. Good stuff. This is a vintage where you need the warm hug of a softly smoked oak barrel, and Thunevin knows how to administer it. 29hl/h yield, 3.5ph. Drinking range: 2026 - 2042 Rating: 96 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2022)

A very balanced and fresh red with blackberry, chocolate and subtle hints of cappuccino. Medium body, very fine tannins and lovely length.A very balanced and fresh red with blackberry, chocolate and subtle hints of cappuccino. Medium body, very fine tannins and lovely length. Rating: 93-94 James Suckling, The Wine Spectator (May 2022)

Matured in 20% new oak, the 2021 Dragon de Quintus delivers aromas of sweet berries, cassis, warm spices, raw cocoa and loamy soil. Medium to full-bodied, lively and succulent, with a pretty core ofMatured in 20% new oak, the 2021 Dragon de Quintus delivers aromas of sweet berries, cassis, warm spices, raw cocoa and loamy soil. Medium to full-bodied, lively and succulent, with a pretty core of fruit, powdery tannins and a sapid finish, it shows promise. This derives from Quintus's holdings at the foot of the slope. Rating: 89-91 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (May 2022)

The 2021 Vieux Château Mazerat offers up aromas of blackberries, cherries, violets and dark chocolate, followed by a medium to full-bodied, rich and concentrated palate that's impressively velvetyThe 2021 Vieux Château Mazerat offers up aromas of blackberries, cherries, violets and dark chocolate, followed by a medium to full-bodied, rich and concentrated palate that's impressively velvety and floral. Whether it's the vintage or a stylistic evolution is hard to say, but this is the most structurally refined rendition of this cuvée that I can remember tasting. Rating: 90-92 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (May 2022)