2023 La Petite Eglise (Pomerol)

So delicious, a seriously impressive wine combining juicy spiced plum and damson fruits, bitter black chocolate and espresso, serious and reserved, with the creamy texture of Pomerol fruits emerging after a few minutes in the glass. Noemie Durantou winemaker. Harvest September 1 to 18. 42hl/h yield. 93 points

The 2023 La Petite Eglise is a serious, deep wine. It is one of the few second wines in Bordeaux that needs some time in bottle to be at its best. Dark-toned fruit, graphite, leather, menthol, spice and incense lend this large-scaled Pomerol a ton of distinction. A dollop of Franc (10%) adds tension and vibrancy. 92-94 points

As usual, the 2023 La Petite Eglise is a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc that checks in at 14.4% alcohol. Wafting from the glass with aromas of plums and cherries mingled with notes of dark chocolate and truffle, it`s medium to full-bodied, fleshy and succulent, with a rich core of fruit, sweet tannins and good depth at the core, concluding with a broad, oak-inflected finish. 91-93 points

The 2023 La Petite Eglise comes from two plots near the village of Pomerol, augmented by the youngest vines in front of the chateau. It comprises 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, picked from September 9 to 14, the Franc on the last day. Matured in 82% new oak, this is initially quite backward on the nose, demanding a bit of aeration in the glass. Quite pure and floral, it only reluctantly opens. The palate is medium-bodied and very pure, with fine-boned tannins. The new oak is vocal toward the finish, lending a smooth veneer that will be subsumed with time in bottle. This is very fine, but allow it a few years in bottle. 90-92 points