2023 Cote de Baleau (St-Emilion)

Inky rich purple, grilled espresso and coffee bean, black pepper and intense dried fruit notes feel intense, with quick tannic buildup, balanced by salinity and pep. 25% new oak for ageing. Sandy, clay, limestone soils. 89 points

The 2023 Côte de Baleau is a pretty rich wine this year, a Saint-Émilion that reflects the intensity of the vintage and the personality of clay-rich souls that confer textural breadth. Dark-toned fruit, mocha, incense, leather and pencil shavings are all amplified. Time in the glass brings out pretty floral top notes that add brightness. It will be interesting to see how this responds to élevage. Today, the 2023 is on the richer side for this cuvée. The blend is 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. Tasted three times. 90-92 points

From the team behind Clos Fourtet, the 2023 Cote de Baleau offers up aromas of sweet cherries, berries and kirsch followed by a medium to full-bodied, polished and suave palate. It`s a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. 90-91 points

The 2023 Côte de Baleau was picked September 14 to October 3 and matured in 25% new oak. It is very perfumed on the nose that oddly brings me toward a warm vintage Burgundy! Very pure and floral, it gains composure as it opens in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins. Fresh and vibrant, this feels nicely focused with a citrus-fresh, graphite-tinged finish. Promising. 90-92 points