(97-99 points) The Cabernet Franc makes a strong impression in the nose with its tobacco, flowers, black, with red fruits, chocolate, orange skin, and mint leaf in the nose. However, it is on the palate with its length...
(97-99 points) The Cabernet Franc makes a strong impression in the nose with its tobacco, flowers, black, with red fruits, chocolate, orange skin, and mint leaf in the nose. However, it is on the palate with its length, purity, vibrance, elegance, and refinement that is the star of the show. The wine starts slow, building in intensity as it lingers. But once it gets going, you find layer, after layer of vibrant, silky, electric fruits. Perfectly ripe, balanced, and fresh, the finish holds with you for close to 60 seconds. The chateau thinks it is better than the 2022, I am not sure. But, I am ready to blind taste both, again, and again to find out for sure. The key to the vintage this year is the uniqueness, and inclusion of each parcel. With 2023, all 41 parcels produced fruit used in the Grand Vin allowing for a true representation of the vineyard into the wine. In other words, 2023 is a vintage where the terroir provides the shape, and character to the wine, more than the climatic conditions. The wine is made from 52% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon. 13.65% ABV, 3.8 pH. The harvest began September 6 for the Merlot. The Cabernet Franc took place September 12 - October 3. Drink from 2030-2065. 97-99 Pts.