2023 Talbot Caillou Blanc (Bordeaux)

Pale green-gold, oak smudging on the nose, cold ash and campfire, opening to bright citrus, white flowers, good quality with lift. 92 points

The 2023 Caillou Blanc de Talbot shows a fresh, delicate bouquet of lemon, lemon oil, grapefruit, spices and spring flowers. Medium-bodied, lean and fruity, it’s long with an elegant core of fruit and a mouthwatering, slightly phenolic finish. This is a blend of 71% Sauvignon Blanc and 29% Semillon. 87-89 points

The 2023 Caillou Blanc Talbot was picked from August 30 to September 7 and matured in 40% new oak, with more batonnage than usual. It has a pretty bouquet with orchard fruit, touches of orange blossom and grapefruit thanks to the 71% Sauvignon Blanc. The palate is fresh on the entry: green apple mixed with pear and a dab of lemongrass, with decent length. This is very Graves-like this year. Drink it over the next four to five years. 88 points