Saint Émilion & Satellites

Release date: 13/6/2024

Fragrant floral aromatics straight off the bat, peony and violet, and a vibrant juiciness that travels through the palate. Savoury dark fruit character, with flint and textural interest, full ofFragrant floral aromatics straight off the bat, peony and violet, and a vibrant juiciness that travels through the palate. Savoury dark fruit character, with flint and textural interest, full of Figeac finesse. 130th vintage of the Manoncourt family at Figeac, and the first vintage where they knew they were Premier Grand Cru Classé A from the start of the season, as it was announced in September 2022. 130mm of rain lower than average over the growing season here, allowing a long slow harvest from September 6 to October 5, 45hl/h yield. Drinking range: 2032 - 2050 Rating: 98 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2024)

Release date: 12/6/2024

Somehow manages to feel understated and yet hard to ignore, with its vivid aromatic spirals of peonies and crushed rose petals, set against raspberry and brambled autumnal fruits. The mid palate isSomehow manages to feel understated and yet hard to ignore, with its vivid aromatic spirals of peonies and crushed rose petals, set against raspberry and brambled autumnal fruits. The mid palate is what really grips you here, with a flashy but extremely pure shot of liquorice root, liquorice bud, aniseed and fennel. Slows things down through the palate with pumice stone grainy tannins, and contrasts the concentration of 2022 at this estate with balance and finesse. Harvest September 13 to October 3, Axel Marchal and Julien Viaud consultants. There will be a new wine cellar ready for the harvest of 2024, more concrete vats (from 9 currently - up to 15). Camille de Vigneau the technical director with Josephine Duffau Lagarrosse. Brilliant winemaking, one of the wines of the vintage. 60% new oak. Drinking range: 2030 - 2045 Rating: 98 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.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

This is really classic in character, with a fine tannin structure and medium body. It starts slowly and then accelerates quickly into intense black cherries, currants and a salty note. Savory andThis is really classic in character, with a fine tannin structure and medium body. It starts slowly and then accelerates quickly into intense black cherries, currants and a salty note. Savory and subtle. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc. Rating: 96-97 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 10/6/2024

The 2023 L'If, crafted by Cyrille Thiepont and originating from vines owned by Jacques Thienpont, unveils a dark bouquet of licorice, dark wild berries, pencil lead, coniferous forest, spices andThe 2023 L'If, crafted by Cyrille Thiepont and originating from vines owned by Jacques Thienpont, unveils a dark bouquet of licorice, dark wild berries, pencil lead, coniferous forest, spices and oak. Medium to full-bodied, creamy and unctuous, it’s rich and concentrated with a fleshy core of fruit framed by powdery tannins, culminating in a long, mineral, chalky finish. This is a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Drinking range: 2025 - 2045 Rating: 93-95 Yohan Castaing, www.robertparker.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 7/6/2024

A wine with very bright and al-dente fruit. Aromas and flavors of redcurrants and minerals with lavender and chalk. Medium to full body and a solid core of tannins integrated with the dark fruit.A wine with very bright and al-dente fruit. Aromas and flavors of redcurrants and minerals with lavender and chalk. Medium to full body and a solid core of tannins integrated with the dark fruit. Toned-muscle quality to the tannins. Fresh and vibrant at the end. Pure fruit. Energy. 77% merlot and 23% cabernet franc. Rating: 96-97 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 5/6/2024

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

Release date: 5/6/2024

A blend of 71% Merlot and 29% Cabernet Franc, the 2023 Canon has a pH of 3.42 and it will age in barriques for 16-18 months, of which 50% are new. It is deep garnet-purple in color and sails out ofA blend of 71% Merlot and 29% Cabernet Franc, the 2023 Canon has a pH of 3.42 and it will age in barriques for 16-18 months, of which 50% are new. It is deep garnet-purple in color and sails out of the glass with bold notions of juicy blueberries, fresh plums, and Bing cherries, giving way to hints of black pepper, fragrant soil, and violets. The medium to full-bodied palate shimmers with energetic black and blue fruits, framed by super-satiny tannins and compelling tension, finishing long and fragrant. Absolutely ethereal! Drinking range: 2030 - 2060 Rating: 98-100 Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, The Wine Independent (May 2024)

Release date: 5/6/2024

The 2023 Pavie Macquin was picked from September 18, finishing with the Cabernet Sauvignon on October 3, cropped at 48hl/ha. The nose offers a mélange of red and black fruit with light wilted roseThe 2023 Pavie Macquin was picked from September 18, finishing with the Cabernet Sauvignon on October 3, cropped at 48hl/ha. The nose offers a mélange of red and black fruit with light wilted rose petal and iris scents. The Cabernet Franc (17% of the blend) imparts loamy aromas. The palate is very svelte and creamy on the entry, but there is real depth and freshness here. Harmonious and poised, it fans out beautifully on the finish. This is more elegant and complex than the 2022, and my score reflects this. Superb. Drinking range: 2028 - 2050 Rating: 94-96 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 4/6/2024

The 2023 Pavie is fabulous. Rich, dense and explosive in the glass, it offers up generous dark red fruit, cedar, spice, pipe tobacco, menthol and mocha. The 2023 impresses with its notable densityThe 2023 Pavie is fabulous. Rich, dense and explosive in the glass, it offers up generous dark red fruit, cedar, spice, pipe tobacco, menthol and mocha. The 2023 impresses with its notable density and sheer palate presence. Naturally, this needs time to be at its best, but it is already incredibly expressive. This is a superb vintage for Pavie. Drinking range: 2031 - 2063 Rating: 95-97 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.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

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

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

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

Release date: 24/5/2024

Exhibiting aromas of dark, minty berries, bay leaf and creamy new oak, the 2023 Laroque is medium to full-bodied, with a sweet core of fruit, powdery tannins and a penetrating, mineral finish.Exhibiting aromas of dark, minty berries, bay leaf and creamy new oak, the 2023 Laroque is medium to full-bodied, with a sweet core of fruit, powdery tannins and a penetrating, mineral finish. Rating: 92-94 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

Release date: 23/5/2024

he 2023 Barde-Haut is a powerful, dense wine from Saint-Émilion's Saint-Christophe-des-Bardes sector. Ample and resonant, the 2023 wraps the palate in blue/purplish berry fruit, mocha, spice and newhe 2023 Barde-Haut is a powerful, dense wine from Saint-Émilion's Saint-Christophe-des-Bardes sector. Ample and resonant, the 2023 wraps the palate in blue/purplish berry fruit, mocha, spice and new leather. There's terrific breadth here. Drinking range: 2027 - 2043 Rating: 92-94 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (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

The 2023 from Corbin presents a sweet and polished nose, with fragrant cherry fruit, red pepper, sandy minerals and smoke. This translates onto a palate which is fresh, elegant and polished, with aThe 2023 from Corbin presents a sweet and polished nose, with fragrant cherry fruit, red pepper, sandy minerals and smoke. This translates onto a palate which is fresh, elegant and polished, with a medium-bodied substance built around a sinewy texture of fruit, supported by a fine-grained core of tannins. An attractive Corbin here, elegant and restrained, working with rather than against the vintage. A good result. Rating: 91-93 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 22/5/2024

Close to the traditional blend here, with 87% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon. The yield was 46 hl/ha, the highest since 2016 here. The picking started on September 14th,Close to the traditional blend here, with 87% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon. The yield was 46 hl/ha, the highest since 2016 here. The picking started on September 14th, finishing October 3rd, picking a few parcels before the rain, but most afterwards. Fermented with whole berries, with pigeage to obtain a soft extraction. A lightly desiccated fruit character on the nose, with perfumed red cherry and sweet raspberry, with threads of red pepper, mint and violets. A very tense, charming start to the palate, with a supple and sinewy upper layer of fruits, which reveals a core of firm tannins, tightly knit, giving the midpalate a rich and lightly drying, limestone grip. It finishes with an infusion of this same grippy but nicely integrated structure, which dominates the length. This is a firm and tense example of Clos Fourtet, carried along in part by its acidity, and it should develop well. Tasted twice. The alcohol is about 14%. Rating: 92-94 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 22/5/2024

A salty and fruity wine in a subtle yet energetic way. Medium body. Fine tannins.A salty and fruity wine in a subtle yet energetic way. Medium body. Fine tannins. Rating: 92-93 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 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

The 2023 Canon la Gaffelière offers up aromas of minty berries, plums, pencil shavings, dried herbs and bay leaf, followed by a medium to full-bodied, bright and crunchy palate underpinned by tangyThe 2023 Canon la Gaffelière offers up aromas of minty berries, plums, pencil shavings, dried herbs and bay leaf, followed by a medium to full-bodied, bright and crunchy palate underpinned by tangy acids and chalky tannins. It's a blend of 35% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Franc and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. Rating: 90-92 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (Apr 2024)

Release date: 22/5/2024

This is a blend of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc, picked September 21st to the 25th, and the yield was 44 hl/ha. A sweet style of fruit on the nose here, with ripe red cherry, damson and driedThis is a blend of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc, picked September 21st to the 25th, and the yield was 44 hl/ha. A sweet style of fruit on the nose here, with ripe red cherry, damson and dried raspberry notes, with little elements of honeyed toast coming from the oak. This feels coherent and fresh on the palate, showing rather juicy red fruits, red cherry, raspberry and currants, with twists of tobacco and toast, as well as a rich wrapping of modesty grained tannins which add a drying note to the finish. A modern fruit profile here, the juicy body of the vintage, and a rather firm, dry, old-school tannic structure. I suspect this will develop well if it can soak up those tannins. The alcohol is around 13.5%. Rating: 90-92 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 21/5/2024

Vibrant ruby plum, rich in texture, as are all of these St Emilion Grand Crus Classés in in the vintage, with a swirl of black chocolate and capsicum, highly charged, plenty of impact, good liftVibrant ruby plum, rich in texture, as are all of these St Emilion Grand Crus Classés in in the vintage, with a swirl of black chocolate and capsicum, highly charged, plenty of impact, good lift through the palate, flash of heat. Great quality, skilful winemaking, one to admire but not sink into. A brilliant location, this has the potential for a far greater score, 70% new oak for ageing. Drinking range: 2029 - 2040 Rating: 93 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2024)

Release date: 21/5/2024

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

Release date: 21/5/2024

The juice, the salinity, the plump fruits and the pleasure bursting out of this glass are off the scale. Expect waves of fleshy red cherry, raspberry, squid ink, tar and smoked grilled caramel,The juice, the salinity, the plump fruits and the pleasure bursting out of this glass are off the scale. Expect waves of fleshy red cherry, raspberry, squid ink, tar and smoked grilled caramel, tannins full of sinew. All picked in one day, Henri Mitjavile winemaker alongside his father François Mitjavile. 100% new oak for ageing. Drinking range: 2028 - 2042 Rating: 97 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.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

The density of fruit grabs your attention, showing fullness and richness with blue fruit and a hazelnut undertone. Chewy at the end of the polished and solid palate. Structured young wine.The density of fruit grabs your attention, showing fullness and richness with blue fruit and a hazelnut undertone. Chewy at the end of the polished and solid palate. Structured young wine. Rating: 92-93 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (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 reveals an incipient bouquet of violet, smoke, dark wild berries, spices and cherries, all beautifully interwoven with creamy new oak. Medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated,The 2023 Ausone reveals an incipient bouquet of violet, smoke, dark wild berries, spices and cherries, all beautifully interwoven with creamy new oak. Medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated, with a rich chassis of tannin, it has a vibrant core of fruit and a long, mineral, vanillin-inflected finish. At 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot, this ranks alongside the 2014 vintage as one of the most Cabernet-dominant Ausone vintages of recent years, and it will mature for 20 months in new oak barrels. Drinking range: 2025 - 2055 Rating: 95-97 Yohan Castaing, www.robertparker.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 15/5/2024

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

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

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

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

The blend is 78.3% Merlot and 21.7% Cabernet Franc, and it takes 25% of the harvest from the Quintus vineyard, which was picked at a yields of 43 hl/ha. The aromatics suggest density but with a senseThe blend is 78.3% Merlot and 21.7% Cabernet Franc, and it takes 25% of the harvest from the Quintus vineyard, which was picked at a yields of 43 hl/ha. The aromatics suggest density but with a sense of perfumed delineation, roses and peonies, over a bed of dark chocolate, praline, black olives and currants. The palate is where the concentration comes into play, offering a velvety substance filled out with textured fruit, all salted blackcurrants, dark chocolate, slate and graphite, pushed forward by fabulous drive and energy. This is a great Quintus, perhaps one of the best, the savoury fruits and more modest alcohol (a degree lower than in some previous vintages) doing great things here. So impressive. The alcohol level is 14.5%. Rating: 96-98 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 13/5/2024

This is so cabernet, with blackcurrants, blackberries, crushed stone, graphite and lead pencil. Full-bodied with tight, chewy tannins that remain fine yet energetic. Winemaker Pierre-Olivier ClouetThis is so cabernet, with blackcurrants, blackberries, crushed stone, graphite and lead pencil. Full-bodied with tight, chewy tannins that remain fine yet energetic. Winemaker Pierre-Olivier Clouet says this wine is a benchmark for Cheval Blanc. Reminds me of the great 1983. 13.8% alcohol. 52% merlot, 46% cabernet franc and 2% cabernet sauvignon. Rating: 98-99 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)

Release date: 7/5/2024

60 Merlot, 40 Cabernet Franc: 100% new oak with half of the Cabernet Franc goes into 30hl foudres for some of the Cabernet Franc: 14% alc: 3.6 pH: Harvest took place between 14 September with the60 Merlot, 40 Cabernet Franc: 100% new oak with half of the Cabernet Franc goes into 30hl foudres for some of the Cabernet Franc: 14% alc: 3.6 pH: Harvest took place between 14 September with the first Merlot and 2 October with the last Cabernet Franc I have noted the expression ‘Barolo-like’ a couple of times in this vintage because some of the wines combine the fruit intensity and power of the greatest Piemontese wines, coupled with their trademark unshakable acid line, all delivered in a medium- to medium-plus-weight chassis.  Strangely, a good few possess stunning wild cherry details, too.  While none taste like Barolo, some wines have the same silhouette and similar levels of exquisite and faintly masochistic drama.  Angélus does not have to work hard to engender drama in its wines; this 2023 is no exception.  There is a glorious wave of flavour here, luxurious, near-decadent and detailed, but it is the way it nods to the past with its sense of place and then fully embraces modernity and purity with its pristine fruit that makes it a compelling proposition.  All the action takes place on a pristine bed of bitingly clean acidity and ultra-fine-grained tannin.  ’23 Angélus then piles glisteningly pure Merlot onto this platform and glazes it with stunningly aromatic Cabernet Franc.  Benjamin Laforêt, estate research and development technical coordinator and the site manager of the Carillon winery, explained that he loved 2022 and 2023 Angélus equally and yet he would drink them on quite different occasions.  2022 would be for special dinners to be served with reverence and pomp, while the 2023 could be enjoyed with pals around the kitchen table.  Leaving aside the fact that he must have a reasonably generous staff discount, I completely understood Benjamin’s thought process.  The 2022 is admittedly a masterpiece and deserves respect and reverence, while this 2023 is more relaxed, open and gregarious.  And while they are both equally delicious, this 2023 has a character and charm about it that makes the most of the Angélus terroir and its fabulous Cabernet Franc fruit. Chapeau. Rating: 19+ Matthew Jukes www.matthewjukes.com (May 2024)

Release date: 6/5/2024

The 2023 Couvent des Jacobins is an elegant, silky Saint-Émilion. Crushed flowers, spice, lavender and mint are some of the many notes that flesh out. Succulent contours and lifted, floral overtonesThe 2023 Couvent des Jacobins is an elegant, silky Saint-Émilion. Crushed flowers, spice, lavender and mint are some of the many notes that flesh out. Succulent contours and lifted, floral overtones wrap it all together. This stylish Saint-Émilion is all charm. Tasted two times. Drinking range: 2028 - 2038 Rating: 90-92 Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (May 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

This is 53% Cabernet Franc, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon and 44% Merlot, the picking finishing with the Cabernets on October 4th, quite late for Trotte Vieille. Beautifully dark and fresh currant andThis is 53% Cabernet Franc, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon and 44% Merlot, the picking finishing with the Cabernets on October 4th, quite late for Trotte Vieille. Beautifully dark and fresh currant and sandalwood notes on the nose, with veins of mint, blood orange and white rose. A very tense start to the palate, fresh and bright with controlled texture, then showing a touch more velvet and weight through the middle, with veins of dark fruits, currants, blackcurrants, olives and toast, supported by a rather powdery backbone of tannins. Bright and fresh, lifted by the acidity of the vintage, but with polished structure, this is very convincing. Long and gripped, this powdery tannins lingering long. Clearly made with my cellar in mind. Tasted twice. The alcohol is about 15%, but it certainly does not show on the palate at all. Rating: 95 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (May 2024)

Release date: 30/4/2024

Inky depths to Valandraud in this vintage, well constructed, intense sweet liqourice and black chocolate, starts out threatening a more old school feel for this wine, with crème de cassis dominantInky depths to Valandraud in this vintage, well constructed, intense sweet liqourice and black chocolate, starts out threatening a more old school feel for this wine, with crème de cassis dominant and high alcohols, but it is given focus and lift as it moves through the palate, with lilting aromatics of red roses, welcome pumice stone tannins, squid ink salinity, and mouthwatering freshness. Skilful, confident, impressive. 100% new oak for ageing, Jean-Luc Thunevin owner at this 10.7ha estate (currently replanting several plots, so 6.6ha in production). 40hl/ha yield. Drinking range: 2030 - 2045 Rating: 95-100 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 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)

Ripe black fruits, orange peel, liqourice, cocoa bean, careful construction, attractively measured grilled oak, not the concentration of the 2022 at this property, but it has a more supple appeal,Ripe black fruits, orange peel, liqourice, cocoa bean, careful construction, attractively measured grilled oak, not the concentration of the 2022 at this property, but it has a more supple appeal, and great to see the consistency in differently-styled vintages. Second year in organic certification. Thomas Duclos consultant since 2018. 50% new oak barrels and 50% of wooden casks and amphoras. Drinking range: 2030 - 2044 Rating: 92 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2024)

The 2023 Jean Faure has turned out beautifully this year, bursting with aromas of mulberries, rose petals, iris and licorice. Medium to full-bodied, supple and fleshy, it's seamless and enveloping,The 2023 Jean Faure has turned out beautifully this year, bursting with aromas of mulberries, rose petals, iris and licorice. Medium to full-bodied, supple and fleshy, it's seamless and enveloping, with real mid-palate plenitude, supple tannins and a long, delicately minty finish. It's a blend of fully 65% Cabernet Franc, 30% Merlot and 5% Malbec. Rating: 93-95 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate (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)

Beautifully fragrant, fresh, crunchy, juicy, anis, fennel, cut herbs, well judged ripe fruits, good balance. Merlot harvest September 6 to October 4 (interesting to note this, as many had finishedBeautifully fragrant, fresh, crunchy, juicy, anis, fennel, cut herbs, well judged ripe fruits, good balance. Merlot harvest September 6 to October 4 (interesting to note this, as many had finished the Merlot very early, and Cabernet Franc to October 3). 27% new oak for ageing, and yields of 45hl/h. 3.42ph. Drinking range: 2027 - 2036 Rating: 92 Jane Anson, www.janeanson.com (May 2024)