The 2022 Valandraud is magnificent. Rich and sumptuous to the core, the 2022 offers up inky red/purplish fruit, blood orange, spice, mocha and espresso, with nearly seamless texture and fabulous balance. Bright acids and beams of tannin lend shape and energy. Jean-Luc Thunevin and Muriel Andraud crafted a wine that captures the textural opulence that first turned heads here, but with an added kick of energy that reflects a more contemporary approach and also the style of the year. There is absolutely no sign of the 100% new oak, always a good measure of balance. I imagine this full throttle Saint-Emilion will need a number of years to shed some of its considerable baby fat. The 2022 showed beautifully at Thunevin, but showed even better in a large comparative tasting. Yields were a very generous 50 hectoliters per hectare, very much on the high side here. Jean-Luc Thunevin adds that he may opt for slightly shorter elevage in barrel than the norm of around 18 months. 96-98 points

Intensely deep colour, this is ink laid over ink. Manages to somehow deliver a stunning depth of black and blue fruits while still allowing some air in among the concentration. Has purity, depth and intelligence in its approach and construction. Be prepared for the waves of exuberant complexity, a wine where you brain beings to say no, but the oyster shell mouthwatering finish, and the clear grain to the tannic frame, convinces you otherwise. Limestone working its magic. 3.5.ph, 100% new oak. Harvest September 15 to October 8, because these are cooler terroirs. 97 points

The 2022 Valandraud was picked from 15 September to 5 October and matured in 100% new oak. It has a pure and very opulent bouquet with ravishing black cherries and creme de cassis scents, a touch of pressed violets and dates. The palate is medium-bodied and hides the 15.5% alcohol beneath its velvety texture. Plush red fruit, sweet and candied but with counterbalancing spiciness and structure on the finish. This is a Valandraud with a V12 engine. It will need several years in bottle. It manages to maintain balance and purity, thankfully not imposing or fatiguing unlike some others. Jean-Luc Thunevin has crafted an excellent Saint-Émilion here. 95-97 points