Saint Émilion & Satellites

Release date: 13/6/2024

A brilliant classic in the making, the 2023 Figeac unwinds in the glass with aromas of cassis and mulberry mingled with notions of iris, cigar wrapper, pencil shavings, burning embers and spices.A brilliant classic in the making, the 2023 Figeac unwinds in the glass with aromas of cassis and mulberry mingled with notions of iris, cigar wrapper, pencil shavings, burning embers and spices. Medium to full-bodied, rich and layered, it's deep and concentrated, with an enveloping core of fruit that's framed by powdery tannins and lively acids, concluding with a broad, atypically mineral finish. It's a blend of 41% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Franc and 27% Cabernet Sauvignon that attained 13.5% alcohol. Rating: 96-98 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

Release date: 12/6/2024

The 2023 Beauséjour-Duffau is a powerful, resonant wine. In this early tasting, it does not feel totally put-together, but this sample shows good depth and plenty of potential. The 2023 is 70% MerlotThe 2023 Beauséjour-Duffau is a powerful, resonant wine. In this early tasting, it does not feel totally put-together, but this sample shows good depth and plenty of potential. The 2023 is 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc, more Franc than in the past. That choice lends gorgeous aromatic presence, but also more structure. This is going to be a fascinating wine to follow. Drinking range: 2030 - 2053 Rating: 92-95 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

Release date: 11/6/2024

The 2023 Troplong Mondot is simply stunning. It's one of the best wines yet made under the direction of Aymeric de Gironde. Towering and statuesque, the 2023 explodes out of the glass with tons ofThe 2023 Troplong Mondot is simply stunning. It's one of the best wines yet made under the direction of Aymeric de Gironde. Towering and statuesque, the 2023 explodes out of the glass with tons of vertical energy. Dark red-toned fruit, licorice, spice, lavender, mocha and pencil shavings are some of the many notes that infuse the 2023 with character. The combination of soaring aromatics, chiseled fruit and a limestone-infused finish is nothing less than captivating. What a wine. Aging is in 60% new oak, 22% 20hL foudre and 18% once-used oak. Tasted two times. Drinking range: 2033 - 2063 Rating: 95-98 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

Release date: 10/6/2024

A wine made by Nicolas Thienpont and David Suire, this is 86% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc, with a yield of 43 hl/ha. The nose here is intriguing, with a rather juicy expression of red cherry andA wine made by Nicolas Thienpont and David Suire, this is 86% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc, with a yield of 43 hl/ha. The nose here is intriguing, with a rather juicy expression of red cherry and coffee bean, feeling a little grained, with a certain freshness and floral lift. Nevertheless the palate commences with an elegant and finely polished harmony, with a supple and finely polished core of fruits, wrapped in ribbons of toasted oak, dark chocolate and fine-boned, well-knit tannins. This presents greater harmony on the palate than the nose suggested it would, and has plenty of charged energy in the finish, and good length too. A promising Larcis Ducasse. Tasted three times. The alcohol is between 14% and 14.5%, says Nicolas Thienpont. Rating: 93-95 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 10/6/2024

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)

Release date: 7/6/2024

The 2023 Beau-Séjour Bécot is fabulous. Rich, opulent and explosive to the core, the 2023 offers up a heady mélange of dark red/purplish fruit, spice, lavender, rose petal, blood orange and brightThe 2023 Beau-Séjour Bécot is fabulous. Rich, opulent and explosive to the core, the 2023 offers up a heady mélange of dark red/purplish fruit, spice, lavender, rose petal, blood orange and bright saline notes. As always, Cabernet Franc plays an important role in shaping the aromatic and flavor profile. The 2023 is an absolute stunner. It’s the first vintage made in the new cellar. That's of course not enough of a track record to make any definitive assessments, but in the 2023, I see a wine with more aromatic presence, greater precision and more refined tannins than any recent vintage I can recall. In a word: magnificent. Tasted two times. Drinking range: 2031 - 2053 Rating: 95-98 Antonio Galloni, The Wine Advocate (May 2024)

Release date: 5/6/2024

A plump and juicy wine with redcurrants and plums, as well as orange peel. Full and layered with round, juicy tannins and a flavorful finish. Generous fruit in this vintage.A plump and juicy wine with redcurrants and plums, as well as orange peel. Full and layered with round, juicy tannins and a flavorful finish. Generous fruit in this vintage. Rating: 94-95 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 5/6/2024

Finesse and saline limestone character on full display, spiced plum, textural as ever, with finely boned architecture, in the line of great Canon vintages, with density to the black fruits and theFinesse and saline limestone character on full display, spiced plum, textural as ever, with finely boned architecture, in the line of great Canon vintages, with density to the black fruits and the mouthwateringly precise tannic grip and oyster shell salinity. 50% new oak for ageing, harvest September 6 through to October 4 (with Merlot going right through until the end, unlike many places, here they really waited). 45hl/ha yield, in organic conversion. Tasted twice. Drinking range: 2030 - 2048 Rating: 96 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2024)

Release date: 5/6/2024

Aromas of sweet raspberries, cherries and plums mingle with notions of licorice and creamy new oak, introducing the 2023 Pavie Macquin, a medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated wine with aAromas of sweet raspberries, cherries and plums mingle with notions of licorice and creamy new oak, introducing the 2023 Pavie Macquin, a medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated wine with a deep core of fruit, tangy acids and powdery tannins. As higher density plantings on the plateau with superior vine genetics start to enter into production, and as the south of the property is restructured, this estate's tannins are becoming more refined, even if the very low pH of 3.35 still tends to foreground the wine's structure. Rating: 93-95 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

Release date: 4/6/2024

Plus damson and black cherry fruits, rich and ripe but balanced by tomato leaf, pumice stone. This is intense and concentrated, skilfully constructed showing fragrant cumin and turmeric spice thatPlus damson and black cherry fruits, rich and ripe but balanced by tomato leaf, pumice stone. This is intense and concentrated, skilfully constructed showing fragrant cumin and turmeric spice that lifts through the palate, opening to show black tea, blood orange, cocoa bean, mint leaf, totally delicious and speaks clearly of its limestone soils. Feels at the top of its game. Harvest September 18 to October 5, 72% new oak for ageing, Gerard Perse owner. Drinking range: 2033 - 2048 Rating: 96 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2024)

Release date: 4/6/2024

The 2023 Saintayme is pure Merlot, as usual, picked between September 27 and October 4 and matured in 30% new oak. This is quite lush on the nose with black plum and light blueberry scents and fineThe 2023 Saintayme is pure Merlot, as usual, picked between September 27 and October 4 and matured in 30% new oak. This is quite lush on the nose with black plum and light blueberry scents and fine purity. It clocks in at 14.6% alcohol, but that is nicely disguised. The palate is medium-bodied with a slightly powdery texture, moderate weight and good balance. There’s perhaps slightly less complexity on the finish compared to the 2022 at this stage last year. Drinking range: 2027 - 2037 Rating: 89-91 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 4/6/2024

This is 55% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, which was picked from September 10th for the Merlot, but mainly from the 18th, then followed by the Cabernet Franc starting onThis is 55% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, which was picked from September 10th for the Merlot, but mainly from the 18th, then followed by the Cabernet Franc starting on September 20th and the Cabernet Sauvignon on September 30th. This is richer in Cabernet Sauvignon than usual, as it includes fruit from a parcel planted in 2021 for the first time. A beautifully pure and convincing nose here, expressive and bright, with a strong Cabernet expression of gorse flowers, orange peel, sweet blackcurrants and griottes. The palate is just as convincing as the nose, with a modest medium-bodied texture but a silky blanket of fruit draped over a firm grip of tannins. This one is going to need time, but it has all that it needs to get there. The alcohol is 14.5% on analysis. Rating: 92-94 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 3/6/2024

The 2023 Fleur Cardinale is gorgeous. Vivid, heady and explosive, the 2023 has a ton to offer. I especially admire its energy and overall drive. Black cherry, mocha, gravel, spice, chocolate andThe 2023 Fleur Cardinale is gorgeous. Vivid, heady and explosive, the 2023 has a ton to offer. I especially admire its energy and overall drive. Black cherry, mocha, gravel, spice, chocolate and menthol all blossom in this explosive, full-throttle Saint-Émilion. Tasted two times. Drinking range: 2028 - 2053 Rating: 92-95 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

Release date: 30/5/2024

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)

Release date: 28/5/2024

A heady, exotic Saint-Émilion, the 2023 Grand-Mayne makes a strong opening statement. Readers will find a wine of dimension and textural resonance. Blackberry, chocolate, licorice, spice and driedA heady, exotic Saint-Émilion, the 2023 Grand-Mayne makes a strong opening statement. Readers will find a wine of dimension and textural resonance. Blackberry, chocolate, licorice, spice and dried herbs are all beautifully amplified. This is impressive. Drinking range: 2030 - 2043 Rating: 92-94 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

Release date: 24/5/2024

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)

Release date: 23/5/2024

All about tannins and texture, extremely well assembled with grip and personality. Smoky grilled coffee bean, gorgeous depth of fruit, liquorice root and freshly cut herbs, clear intensity setAll about tannins and texture, extremely well assembled with grip and personality. Smoky grilled coffee bean, gorgeous depth of fruit, liquorice root and freshly cut herbs, clear intensity set against floral fragrance, mouthwatering finish. 50% new french oak 3.4ph, 45hl/h yield, harvest September 14 to 29. Drinking range: 2029 - 2042 Rating: 95 Jane Anson, Decanter (May 2024)

Release date: 23/5/2024

Love the bright fruit here, bright, zesty, real orange peel and tar, heavy spice but plenty of love. 45hl/ha, harvest September 7 to 29. 50% new oak, rest in stainless steel.Love the bright fruit here, bright, zesty, real orange peel and tar, heavy spice but plenty of love. 45hl/ha, harvest September 7 to 29. 50% new oak, rest in stainless steel. Drinking range: 2026 - 2036 Rating: 92 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2024)

Release date: 23/5/2024

The 2023 La Gaffelière is very pure and floral on the nose, with black cherries intermingling with violet and iris flower scents. The new oak is neatly integrated here. The palate is medium-bodiedThe 2023 La Gaffelière is very pure and floral on the nose, with black cherries intermingling with violet and iris flower scents. The new oak is neatly integrated here. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and layers of lightly spiced black fruit. Cedar and graphite furnish the poised but persistent finish. This is another in a succession of impressive wines from this estate that just oozes sensuality. Superb. Drinking range: 2029 - 2055 Rating: 94-96 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 22/5/2024

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)

Release date: 22/5/2024

This is so full of energy. It’s full-bodied with electrified tannins and a long, long finish. So polish and focus here with exquisite balance and length.This is so full of energy. It’s full-bodied with electrified tannins and a long, long finish. So polish and focus here with exquisite balance and length. Rating: 97-98 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 22/5/2024

The 2023 d’Aiguilhe is packed with blue/purplish fruit, lavender, spice, menthol and licorice. Bright saline notes lend freshness and verve. The vibrancy of the flavors is really quite striking.The 2023 d’Aiguilhe is packed with blue/purplish fruit, lavender, spice, menthol and licorice. Bright saline notes lend freshness and verve. The vibrancy of the flavors is really quite striking. Drinking range: 2025 - 2038 Rating: 90-92 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

Release date: 22/5/2024

The 2023 La Mondotte is fabulous. In fact, the 2023 is one of the best Mondottes I can remember tasting. A wine of vertical, explosive energy, La Mondotte dazzles from the very first taste. Inky darkThe 2023 La Mondotte is fabulous. In fact, the 2023 is one of the best Mondottes I can remember tasting. A wine of vertical, explosive energy, La Mondotte dazzles from the very first taste. Inky dark fruit, mocha, lavender, new leather, spice and dried herbs build as this dynamic, complex Saint-Émilion shows off its compelling personality. Superb. Drinking range: 2030 - 2048 Rating: 95-97 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

Release date: 22/5/2024

Intense ruby colour, satiny texture with a reassuring correction of salted cracker to give balance to the exuberant raspberry fruits. Lifts not just on the finish but from the first moments,Intense ruby colour, satiny texture with a reassuring correction of salted cracker to give balance to the exuberant raspberry fruits. Lifts not just on the finish but from the first moments, stretching out with a kick of slate and crushed rocks. Sleek and burnished. 75% in oak barrels for ageing (40% new) on the lees. 25% in vats. 35hl/ha. Drinking range: 2030 - 2048 Rating: 94 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2024)

Release date: 22/5/2024

Aromas of cherries, dark chocolate, spices and violets introduce the 2023 Clos de l'Oratoire, a medium to full-bodied, fleshy and layered wine that's charming and harmonious on the attack, displayingAromas of cherries, dark chocolate, spices and violets introduce the 2023 Clos de l'Oratoire, a medium to full-bodied, fleshy and layered wine that's charming and harmonious on the attack, displaying a touch of youthfully grippy tannin on the finish. The blend contains fully 25% Cabernet Franc. Rating: 90-92 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

Release date: 21/5/2024

This is a blend of 87% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. An intense nose suggesting some concentration, with dark berry fruits richly dressed with layers of dark chocolate, coffeeThis is a blend of 87% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. An intense nose suggesting some concentration, with dark berry fruits richly dressed with layers of dark chocolate, coffee bean, leather and toast. The palate is gently polished, lightly velvety, with a rich core of very dark fruits, all currant, dark chocolate, coffee bean and tar, which comes with a rich seam of grippy tannins, adding a firm frame to the structure of the wine. Dense, richly built, even while it still carries the sinewy and bright DNA of the vintage, the tannins are firm and well knit, and they seem to suit the palate. Long and wrapped in a grip of ripe tannins and scented oak at the end. It will take some time to come around, this one, but it certainly has potential. Tasted three times. Rating: 92-94 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 21/5/2024

Aromas of dark berries, cherries and pencil shavings, framed by a touch of new oak, introduce the 2023 Grand Corbin-Despagne, a medium to full-bodied, fleshy and polished wine that's supple, suaveAromas of dark berries, cherries and pencil shavings, framed by a touch of new oak, introduce the 2023 Grand Corbin-Despagne, a medium to full-bodied, fleshy and polished wine that's supple, suave and lively, with melting tannins and a gently vanillin-inflected finish. Rating: 90-92 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

Release date: 21/5/2024

The 2023 Tertre-Rôteboeuf is a potent, backward wine. Dark-toned fruit and huge, sweeping tannins make a strong first impression. The 2023 is a somber, brooding Tertre-Rôteboeuf that will need atThe 2023 Tertre-Rôteboeuf is a potent, backward wine. Dark-toned fruit and huge, sweeping tannins make a strong first impression. The 2023 is a somber, brooding Tertre-Rôteboeuf that will need at least a few years to come into its own. It's difficult to say whether the searing tannins will ever fully soften; I would say that is a 50/50 proposition at this stage. En primeur at Tertre-Rôteboeuf is more akin to Burgundy than Bordeaux; wines are tasted straight from barrel rather than from prepared samples, so there is always a bit of variability. I observed this in the two barrels I tasted. Drinking range: 2030 - 2043 Rating: 91-94 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 2024)

Release date: 16/5/2024

Fresh aromatics, attractive raspberry leaf and violet, deeply coloured, well textured, there is clear oak influence, but it is well integrated, and the texture has resistance and rise through theFresh aromatics, attractive raspberry leaf and violet, deeply coloured, well textured, there is clear oak influence, but it is well integrated, and the texture has resistance and rise through the finish. Good quality. 30% new oak. 45hl/ha yield, Vignobles K owners. Drinking range: 2029 - 2044 Rating: 94 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 16/5/2024

The blend is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, picked at a yield of 49 hl/ha, vinified in oak and stainless steel vats. A beautiful nose, expressive and open, with powdered chalk, leather, peony andThe blend is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, picked at a yield of 49 hl/ha, vinified in oak and stainless steel vats. A beautiful nose, expressive and open, with powdered chalk, leather, peony and red summer fruits, in particular ripe strawberry with a dusting of black pepper. The oak is playing a big part here. The palate is fresh, lively, with a very tense and sinewy style, very correct, with tightly wound tannins, supporting layers of leather, degraded red cherry, sandalwood, incense and peony. There is plenty of grip here, the tannins providing a very robust frame for the fruit, and showing a great deal of confidence in the finish. An impressive structure which doesn’t go over the top, and with time these tannins will integrate. This has certainly moved away from the dark engine-oil style I would expect to find here in the past, although the oak is still there, and the alcohol is still high at 14.75%. Tasted three times. Rating: 90-92 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 15/5/2024

Another beautiful wine from this perpetually improving property, the 2023 Château Mangot delivers aromas of blackberries and mulberries mingled with hints of licorice, pencil shavings, bay leaf andAnother beautiful wine from this perpetually improving property, the 2023 Château Mangot delivers aromas of blackberries and mulberries mingled with hints of licorice, pencil shavings, bay leaf and violets. Medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, with a seamless, complete profile and impressive mid-palate density, it's a blend of 65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon with élevage combining, as usual, new oak, used barriques, foudre and amphorae. The style emphasizes precision and purity of fruit without any obtrusive winemaking signatures. On a qualitative roll, Mangot is one of the best values in contemporary Bordeaux, and the 2023 vintage is another strong effort. Rating: 92-94 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

Release date: 15/5/2024

Wow. This is really alluring, with multi-dimensional texture and length. Crisp and al-dente. It's medium- to full-bodied with ultra-fine tannins and crunchy, pure fruit. Salt comes through. 60%Wow. This is really alluring, with multi-dimensional texture and length. Crisp and al-dente. It's medium- to full-bodied with ultra-fine tannins and crunchy, pure fruit. Salt comes through. 60% cabernet franc, 35% merlot and 5% cabernet sauvignon. Rating: 95-96 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 15/5/2024

The 2023 Ausone was picked September 14 to 30 and matured for a planned 20 months. It has a wonderful bouquet that is very floral in style and perfectly controlled, perhaps more refined than the 2022The 2023 Ausone was picked September 14 to 30 and matured for a planned 20 months. It has a wonderful bouquet that is very floral in style and perfectly controlled, perhaps more refined than the 2022 (which incidentally had a degree more in alcohol). The palate is medium-bodied with a silky smooth entry, finely tuned with impressive mineralité. It just gently "rolls out" on the languorous finish. This is a more understated Ausone compared to recent vintages, but it exudes sophistication and could easily surpass the Vauthiers' 2022. Drinking range: 2028 - 2060 Rating: 96-98 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 15/5/2024

This is showing the limestone magic of 2023. Medium-bodied and very polished with a tight, linear structure, but purity of fruit and wonderful length. Silky texture. So bright. 85% merlot and 15%This is showing the limestone magic of 2023. Medium-bodied and very polished with a tight, linear structure, but purity of fruit and wonderful length. Silky texture. So bright. 85% merlot and 15% cabernet franc. Rating: 94-95 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 15/5/2024

From a 7 Hectare slope in front of Chateau Ausone - the Moulin Saint-Georges is a real winner in 2023. More broad and powerful in feel than some years - this remains an absolute charmer, but aFrom a 7 Hectare slope in front of Chateau Ausone - the Moulin Saint-Georges is a real winner in 2023. More broad and powerful in feel than some years - this remains an absolute charmer, but a charmer with some serious intent. A wonderful mulch of blue and deep-red berries is lifted by floral hits of pink blossom and even a whiff of violets. Imposing but with lovely layers and nuance. Owned by the Vauthier family from Ausone since 1921, this remains a real steal for Grand Cru Saint Emilion with such pedigree and heritage.L&S (Apr 2024)

Release date: 15/5/2024

64% Merlot, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Carmenère. Deeper and more structured than Simard (from the same portfolio), this is an expressive Fonbel that builds on the success of last year’s more64% Merlot, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Carmenère. Deeper and more structured than Simard (from the same portfolio), this is an expressive Fonbel that builds on the success of last year’s more expressive wine. It has a cooler, more penetrative style, superbly controlled oak, and a long, savoury finish. Once again, the tannins have been handled brilliantly here. This is a very assured wine, one that will open nicely over five years and hold itself well for a further ten and to that end, it gained its highest score from me to date. 17.5/20 Rating: 17.5+ Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (May 2024)

Release date: 14/5/2024

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)

Release date: 14/5/2024

Brambled fruit, richly textured, with juice that runs through the palate bringing you into the heart of St Emilion. Push and pull in texture between grilled smoky oak and slate-scraping pumice stoneBrambled fruit, richly textured, with juice that runs through the palate bringing you into the heart of St Emilion. Push and pull in texture between grilled smoky oak and slate-scraping pumice stone tannins, this takes its time to open, well judged and skilfully constructed. 43hl/h yield, 42ha in production since addition of Grand Pontet in 2021. Audrey Bernard joined the technical team in March 2021 direct from Opus One, plus new director Mariette Veyssiere. Drinking range: 2030 - 2045 Rating: 94 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2024)

Release date: 13/5/2024

This takes 75% of the crop in this vintage, and it is a blend of 52% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon. This is quite divine on the nose, very perfumed, floral, polished, withThis takes 75% of the crop in this vintage, and it is a blend of 52% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon. This is quite divine on the nose, very perfumed, floral, polished, with rose, peony and violets, showing great precision, purity and linearity. The élevage is in 100% new oak, yet it just doesn’t show on the nose at all. The palate shows divine harmony, elegance and restraint, before it unfurls in the midpalate to produce a wonderfully broad and yet harmonious substance. The tannins feel perfectly ripe and composed, precisely drawn, present yet not intrusive, with great energy through the middle. There is a tannic frame here, but it is polished, finely knit and cohesive with the rest of the palate. This then all focuses into a finish which has focus and great sense of energy. Such seamless harmony here. This is a super Cheval Blanc which seems very true to the terroir. Rating: 96-98 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 7/5/2024

A classic blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, the 2023 Angélus reflects this estate's continuing evolution with regard to ripeness, extraction and élevage choices, offering up attractiveA classic blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, the 2023 Angélus reflects this estate's continuing evolution with regard to ripeness, extraction and élevage choices, offering up attractive aromas of dark berries and plums mingled with hints of mint, potpourri, rose petals, vine smoke and orange zest. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and supple, with a velvety attack that segues into a core of pure, pillowy fruit framed by supple, powdery tannins, it's cool and harmonious, concluding with a long, perfumed finish. This is a terrific effort that foregrounds the vintage and the terroir at their best. Rating: 95-96 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

Release date: 6/5/2024

The fruit character on the nose here is dark and concentrated, with a slightly smudged soft-focus definition. There is a touch of violet perfume to it though, which appeals, as well as some barrelThe fruit character on the nose here is dark and concentrated, with a slightly smudged soft-focus definition. There is a touch of violet perfume to it though, which appeals, as well as some barrel lactones. This is followed by a palate with a welcoming and gently polished substance, showing a little more presence through the middle than many of its peers, with a core of dark berry and bramble fruits dressed with dark chocolate. A nice grip to it in the end, and the tannins throughout feel ripe and completely integrated with the wine, with just a chalky polish to the end. This is really charming, the aromatic definition a trade off for the texture and quality of tannin. I suspect it will come out very well in the end. Tasted twice. Rating: 91-93 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 3/5/2024

A single block, just less than 1 hectare. La Grande Cote is a rugged, steep vineyard that is planted with a mix of 75 year old old vines. Its always hard to tell the exact blend as this is a trueA single block, just less than 1 hectare. La Grande Cote is a rugged, steep vineyard that is planted with a mix of 75 year old old vines. Its always hard to tell the exact blend as this is a true field blend, with Pierre harvesting it all at the same time and the grapes are co-fermented. Approximately 40% Cabernet Franc, 40% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon.
2023 is just the second time this prized parcel has been separated from the La Mauriane blend - and it really does deliver something different. A powerful, tight core of deep red fruit. This has real drive and focus. Wonderful concentration of smashed red berries, some sophisticated floral aromatics and a sloosh of juicy concentration. Fascinating wine a real delight to taste - but the Grande Cote will take some time. The 2022 remains in barrel - as Pierre only bottles by the moon and when this coincides with a cool stretch of weather.L&S (Apr 2024)

Release date: 2/5/2024

Wow, this is really something. It is full and powerful with truly impressive depth of fruit. Yet, it remains agile and structural, with flexed muscles, balanced by a sense of floating. Well definedWow, this is really something. It is full and powerful with truly impressive depth of fruit. Yet, it remains agile and structural, with flexed muscles, balanced by a sense of floating. Well defined and poised. 53% cabernet franc, 44% merlot, and 3% cabernet. Will it be better than 2022? Rating: 98-99 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 30/4/2024

The 2023 Valandraud delivers exactly what you expect on the nose from Jean-Luc Thunevin's crown jewel: very polished scents of black cherries, cassis and crushed violets. One sample had a soupçon ofThe 2023 Valandraud delivers exactly what you expect on the nose from Jean-Luc Thunevin's crown jewel: very polished scents of black cherries, cassis and crushed violets. One sample had a soupçon of sur-maturité, although another at the château displayed more composure and coolness. The palate is rich and fruit-driven with layers of black fruit. The sample at the château showed more backbone and grip, a healthy sprinkling of cracked black pepper and a long and persistent finish. Give this three to five years, because it is a seriously good Saint-Émilion. Drinking range: 2030 - 2055 Rating: 95-97 Neal Martin, www.vinous.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)

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 young red with blackberry, dark cherry and some fresh herbs, in a very good sense. Medium body, integrated tannins and a polished and attractive finish. Really pretty fruit here. Picked al-dente.A young red with blackberry, dark cherry and some fresh herbs, in a very good sense. Medium body, integrated tannins and a polished and attractive finish. Really pretty fruit here. Picked al-dente. Better than 2022? Rating: 94-95 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

Mouthwatering from the first moments, showcasing vibrant dark berry fruits shot through with fennel, red saffran, smoked earth, aniseed, gooseberry. One of my favourite wines of the vintage in StMouthwatering from the first moments, showcasing vibrant dark berry fruits shot through with fennel, red saffran, smoked earth, aniseed, gooseberry. One of my favourite wines of the vintage in St Emilion, just so full of pleasure, will easily last for decades but not need to wait too long before starting to enjoy. 50% in new oak barrels. harvest September 18 to 28. Highest amount of Cabernet Franc in this wine to date, at 50% of the total blend, 3.67ph. Drinking range: 2030 - 2045 Rating: 96-100 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2024)

Bitter black chocolate on the opening beats, along with espresso and rosemary. There are juicy ruby fruits alongside, and estate signature. Gravelley soils with sandy and sandy clay, most impacted byBitter black chocolate on the opening beats, along with espresso and rosemary. There are juicy ruby fruits alongside, and estate signature. Gravelley soils with sandy and sandy clay, most impacted by the heat spikes of the vintage of all the Pavie wines this year, harvest september 13 to 23. 50% new oak, with the rest on one year. Drinking range: 2029 - 2040 Rating: 89 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 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)