En Primeur, or "wine futures," is an annual event in Bordeaux where wines are sold before bottling. Wine merchants, critics, and enthusiasts gather to taste and evaluate the latest vintage still aging in barrels. This year, we visited 40 prestigious estates to sample the 2023 vintage.
Bordeaux 2023 Vintage Summary
The 2023 vintage presented both challenges and triumphs for Bordeaux winemakers. The growing season was marked by unpredictable weather, starting with a warm and dry spring that led to an early bud break. However, the summer brought a mix of moderate temperatures and sporadic rain, creating humid conditions that fostered mildew, which was a significant concern for many vineyards.
A dramatic heatwave in mid-August, with temperatures soaring above 40°C, significantly impacted the vines, causing some sunburn and dehydration of the grapes. This sudden heat spike halted the vigorous growth of the vines and accelerated the ripening process, leading to concentrated flavors in the grapes. The harvest season was marked by favorable weather, with warm, sunny days and cool nights, allowing for excellent flavor development and balanced acidity in the grapes.
Despite the challenges, the 2023 vintage has emerged as one of complexity and promise. The red wines, primarily crafted from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, exhibited deep color, intense aromas, and well-structured tannins. On the Left Bank, Cabernet Sauvignons stood out with their brightness, perfume, and structure, while Merlots on cooler, more water-retentive soils performed better than those on gravel. The Right Bank wines, especially those from St. Emilion and Pomerol, displayed vibrant fruit flavors, gentle tannins, and persuasive aromatics, making them more immediately accessible.
In this article, we will delve into our top bordeaux wineries to visit and picks from the 2023 En Primeur tastings, providing insights into the characteristics that set these wines apart. From powerful and structured reds to elegant and aromatic whites, these selections exemplify the potential and diversity of the 2023 Bordeaux vintage. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the world of wine investing, these wines are sure to captivate and inspire.
Check out our top Bordeaux estates of:
Top Bordeaux Estates of Saint-Émilion: A Symphony of Elegance and Complexity
Saint-Émilion, located on Bordeaux’s Right Bank, is one of the most picturesque and historic appellations in the region. Known for its rolling hills, ancient vineyards, and charming medieval village, Saint-Émilion is a UNESCO World Heritage site that produces some of the most elegant and complex wines in the world. The region’s unique terroir, combined with the dedication of its winemakers, results in wines that are celebrated for their richness, depth, and ability to age gracefully.
Chateau Cheval Blanc - Saint-Émilion
The Château Cheval Blanc estate is one of the most iconic and revered properties in Bordeaux, renowned for its exceptional terroir and its ability to produce some of the world's finest wines. Situated in the prestigious Saint-Émilion appellation, the estate is celebrated for its unique vineyard composition, which includes a rare blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, giving its wines a distinctive and complex character.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 vintage of Cheval Blanc is a true standout in the Bordeaux En Primeur season. Despite a challenging growing season, the estate produced a wine of exceptional depth and complexity. Comprising 52% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2023 Cheval Blanc is deeply aromatic, with notes of mulberries, dark fruits, and violets. On the palate, it is rich and vibrant, featuring fine, silky tannins and an incredible long finish that adds to its complexity and aging potential.
Critic Scores
This exceptional vintage has garnered impressive scores from critics:
William Kelley (Wine Advocate): 98-100 points
James Suckling: 98-99 points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown: 97-99 points
Neal Martin (Vinous): 96-98 point
Chateau Ausone - Saint-Émilion
Château Ausone, one of the jewels of Saint-Émilion, is renowned for its steep limestone vineyards and the exceptional wines they produce. The 2023 vintage continues this legacy, emerging as a powerful and refined expression of the estate's unique terroir. You can see more about the fantastic lunch we had with Edouard in the next post.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 vintage of Château Ausone is a blend of 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot. This year, the wine displays deep, complex aromas of violets, dark wild berries, spices, and smoke, all beautifully interwoven with hints of new oak. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with a rich structure of tannins and a vibrant core of fruit. The finish is long and mineral-driven, with a vanillin-inflected touch that lingers gracefully.
Critic Scores
The 2023 Château Ausone has received outstanding reviews from critics:
James Suckling: 98-99 points, praising its purity of fruit, fluidity, and seamless finish.
Antonio Galloni (Vinous): 96-98 points, noting its depth, resonance, and mineral-drenched finish.
Neal Martin (Vinous): 96-98 points, highlighting its refined bouquet and sophisticated palate.
Wine Advocate: 95-97 points, emphasizing the layered concentration and long finish.
Chateau Canon - Saint-Émilion
Château Canon, a Premier Grand Cru Classé B estate in Saint-Émilion, is renowned for its elegant and refined wines that embody the unique limestone terroir of the region. The 2023 vintage continues this legacy, showcasing the estate's dedication to producing wines of exceptional quality.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 Château Canon is crafted from a blend of 71% Merlot and 29% Cabernet Franc. This vintage opens with expressive aromas of blueberries, fresh plums, and Bing cherries, complemented by subtle notes of black pepper and fragrant earth. On the palate, the wine is vibrant and elegant, with well-integrated tannins and a refreshing acidity, making it a standout in the 2023 Bordeaux En Primeur season.
Critic Scores
The 2023 vintage of Château Canon has received impressive scores from several critics:
James Suckling: 97-98 points, highlighting the seamless integration of fruit and minerality.
Decanter: 96 points, praising the wine's balance and depth.
Wine Advocate: 95-97 points, noting its layered complexity.
Chateau Angélus - Saint-Émilion
Château Angélus, in Saint-Émilion, has been owned by the de Boüard de Laforest family for eight generations. The estate is celebrated not just for its wines but also for the iconic bells that adorn its labels and ring out daily, a tribute to the Angelus prayer historically recited in the vineyards. This unique symbol reflects the estate's deep-rooted connection to its land and heritage. Depending on which country you are from, they will play you a special song when visiting the estate.
Château Angélus holds the prestigious Premier Grand Cru Classé A status, the highest classification in Saint-Émilion, which it achieved in 2012. The 2023 vintage, a blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, continues this legacy of excellence
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 Château Angélus is a blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, showcasing the estate's traditional approach while embracing modern precision in winemaking. The wine opens with intense aromas of dark berries, plums, and subtle hints of mint, rose petals, and orange zest. On the palate, it is full-bodied and muscular, with wonderfully refined tannins and a pristine, fresh fruit core. This vintage captures the elegance and power that Château Angélus is known for, making it a standout in this year's Bordeaux En Primeur.
Critic Scores
The 2023 vintage of Château Angélus has received strong reviews from critics:
James Suckling: 97-98 points, praising the wine's transparency of fruit and finesse.
Decanter: 97 points, highlighting its beautiful balance and fragrance.
Wine Advocate (William Kelley): 95-96 points, noting the wine's ability to foreground both vintage and terroir.
Chateau Pavie - Saint-Émilion
Château Pavie, one of the most prestigious estates in Saint-Émilion, is renowned not only for its exceptional wines but also for its breathtaking location. The estate spans 37 hectares on the southern slopes of the Saint-Émilion limestone plateau, where visitors are treated to stunning views over the Dordogne Valley. The château itself is a blend of tradition and modernity, with state-of-the-art winemaking facilities housed within historical architecture, offering a unique experience for visitors.
The vineyards of Château Pavie are meticulously managed, with a mix of clay-limestone soils that contribute to the depth and complexity of its wines. Walking through the vineyards, visitors can observe the careful attention to detail that goes into every aspect of the winemaking process, from the high-trained vines to the hand-harvesting of grapes. The estate offers a truly immersive experience, where one can appreciate both the natural beauty of the terroir and the meticulous craftsmanship that defines Château Pavie.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 vintage of Château Pavie continues to uphold the estate's legacy of producing powerful and complex wines. The blend for this vintage includes 51% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Franc, and 17% Cabernet Sauvignon. This combination results in a wine that is both rich and refined, with deep garnet-purple hues and aromas of blueberry pie, cassis, and preserved plums, accented by notes of violets, star anise, and cedar.
Critic Scores
The 2023 Château Pavie has received exceptional reviews from critics:
Lisa Perrotti-Brown (The Wine Independent): 98-100 points, describing the wine as "breathtaking."
James Suckling: 99-100 points, highlighting its balance and energetic finish.
Antonio Galloni (Vinous): 95-97+ points, noting the wine’s richness and explosive character.
These accolades affirm Château Pavie's status as one of the top performers in the 2023 Bordeaux vintage, showcasing the estate's dedication to quality and its mastery of the Saint-Émilion terroir
Top Bordeaux Wineries of St Estephe: The Essence of Strength and Structure
Just north of Pauillac lies Saint-Estèphe, an appellation renowned for producing some of the most structured and long-lived wines in Bordeaux. The heavier clay soils in this region contribute to the wines' pronounced tannic structure and deep concentration. Château Montrose and Château Cos d'Estournel are among the most celebrated estates here, known for crafting wines that combine power with elegance.
Château Montrose - Saint-Estephe
Château Montrose, a revered Second Growth estate located in the Saint-Estèphe appellation of Bordeaux, is known for producing some of the most powerful and long-lived wines in the region. The estate is beautifully situated on the banks of the Gironde estuary, where its vineyards benefit from a unique microclimate. The vineyards span 45 hectares of prime terroir, focused on the estate's historic core known as Terrace 4, which has been reduced from about 60 hectares to better concentrate the expression of its wines. Visitors to Montrose are often struck by the estate's blend of tradition and modernity, with meticulous vineyard practices and state-of-the-art winemaking facilities that underline the estate’s commitment to quality.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 vintage of Château Montrose is a remarkable wine, made from a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, and 4% Cabernet Franc. This vintage is described as a dark, brooding powerhouse with incredible depth and complexity. The wine opens with intense aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant, crushed stone, and earth, complemented by notes of lilac, violet, and pencil shavings. On the palate, it is full-bodied, deep, and layered, with ripe tannins and lively acids that frame a dense, multidimensional mid-palate.
Critic Scores
The 2023 Château Montrose has received exceptional reviews, reinforcing its status as one of the top wines of the vintage:
James Suckling: 99-100 points, praising it as "the essence of Montrose" and noting its muscular structure and intensity.
William Kelley (Wine Advocate): 97-100 points, describing it as "brilliant" with a long, resonant finish.
Jeb Dunnuck: 97-100 points, highlighting its richness, depth, and potential to be the wine of the vintage.
Neal Martin (Vinous): 96-98 points, commending its focus, purity, and pitch-perfect acidity.
Top Bordeaux Wineries of Pauillac: The Pinnacle of Power and Prestige
Pauillac, often considered the crown jewel of Bordeaux, is synonymous with First Growths such as Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Latour, and Château Mouton Rothschild. The appellation is characterized by its gravelly soils, which provide excellent drainage and are ideal for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon. This grape dominates the vineyards of Pauillac, lending the wines their hallmark qualities: deep color, intense concentration, and remarkable aging potential.
Château Latour - Pauillac
Château Latour, one of the most esteemed First Growths in Bordeaux, is located in the Pauillac appellation on the Left Bank. The estate has a long and storied history dating back to the 14th century, and it has consistently produced wines of exceptional quality that are renowned for their longevity and structure. The heart of Château Latour's vineyards lies in the "Enclos," a 47-hectare plot that is the source of the estate's most prestigious wines. This terroir, dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, is perfectly suited to produce wines with remarkable depth, elegance, and concentration.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 vintage of Château Latour is another extraordinary wine from this iconic estate. Comprised primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon, with small amounts of Merlot and Petit Verdot, the wine is noted for its deep color and aromatic complexity. The 2023 Latour offers aromas of blackcurrants, graphite, and floral notes, along with hints of cedar and tobacco. On the palate, it is full-bodied and structured, with finely-grained tannins and a powerful yet elegant finish.
Critic Scores
The 2023 Château Latour has received outstanding reviews from critics:
James Suckling: 98-99 points, noting the wine's superb structure and depth.
Falstaff: 97 points, praising its classic Pauillac character and potential for long aging.
Jeb Dunnuck: 97-99 points, highlighting the wine's balance, intensity, and seamless tannins.
Decanter: 96 points, commending its refinement and the precision of its flavors.
Château Lafite Rothschild - Pauillac
Château Lafite Rothschild, one of Bordeaux's most iconic First Growth estates, is located in the Pauillac appellation on the Left Bank. The estate, with its rich history dating back centuries, is renowned for its elegance and finesse, consistently producing wines that are both powerful and refined. The vineyards, primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, are situated on gravelly soils that contribute to the complexity and longevity of the wines.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 vintage of Château Lafite Rothschild is a remarkable expression of the estate's terroir. The blend consists of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, and 1% Petit Verdot. The wine is deep garnet-purple in color and opens with pure notes of boysenberries, wild blueberries, and blackcurrants, accompanied by hints of violets, dark chocolate, licorice, and black truffle. The palate is light to medium-bodied, with vibrant black berry and mineral flavors, framed by fine-grained tannins and a tension that speaks to its aging potential.
Critic Scores
The 2023 Lafite Rothschild has received exceptional reviews from leading critics:
Jane Anson: 98-100 points, praising the wine's balance, finesse, and hidden power.
William Kelley (Wine Advocate): 97-99 points, highlighting its complexity and layered structure.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown (Wine Independent): 97-99 points, noting its cerebral quality and vibrant character.
James Suckling: 97-98 points, emphasizing the purity of the Cabernet Sauvignon and its subtlety and focus.
Antonio Galloni (Vinous): 95-98 points, describing it as explosive and deep with a striking balance.
Château Mouton Rothschild - Pauillac
Château Mouton Rothschild, is a legendary chateau located in the Pauillac appellation on the Left Bank. The estate is famous not only for its exceptional wines but also for its rich history and the artistic labels that adorn each bottle, featuring works by renowned artists like Picasso and Chagall. Owned by the Rothschild family since 1853, Mouton Rothschild has consistently pushed the boundaries of winemaking, earning its place among the world's most prestigious wines.
A visit to Château Mouton Rothschild is an unforgettable experience that combines history, art, and viticulture. The estate is home to the Museum of Wine in Art, which houses an extensive collection of wine-related artifacts and the original artwork used for the labels. Visitors are guided through the beautiful vineyards, where the meticulously maintained vines reflect the estate's commitment to excellence. The tour also includes a visit to the impressive barrel rooms and cellars, where the Grand Vin ages in new oak barrels, absorbing the complex flavors that make Mouton Rothschild so unique. The château itself, with its grandeur and attention to detail, offers a glimpse into the legacy of the Rothschild family and their passion for winemaking.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 vintage of Château Mouton Rothschild is a particularly outstanding example of the estate's craftsmanship. The wine is composed of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Merlot, resulting in a powerful and complex blend. It exhibits a deep ruby-red color and an intense bouquet of black fruits, graphite, cocoa bean, and espresso. The palate is full-bodied with refined tannins, building in intensity and revealing layers of flavor that include pomegranate and smoked earth.
Critic Scores
The 2023 Mouton Rothschild has received exceptional praise from critics:
Jane Anson: 98-100 points, calling it "one of my clear wines of the vintage. Of any vintage."
James Suckling: 98-99 points, highlighting its muscular structure and expanding finish.
Antonio Galloni (Vinous): 96-99 points, noting its concentrated fruit and spellbinding balance.
Neal Martin: 96-98 points, praising its velvety texture and harmonious finish.
Top Bordeaux Wineries of Margaux: The Epitome of Elegance
Margaux is home to some of Bordeaux's most famous estates, including Château Margaux, Château Palmer, and Château Brane-Cantenac. The terroir of Margaux is characterized by its gravelly soils, which are ideal for growing Cabernet Sauvignon, the dominant grape variety in the region. These soils, combined with the appellation's unique microclimate, contribute to the creation of wines that are both structured and ethereal, offering a harmonious balance between power and finesse.
Château Margaux - Margaux
Château Margaux, one of the most illustrious estates in Bordeaux, is located in the Margaux appellation on the Left Bank. Renowned for its elegance and refinement, Château Margaux has a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. The estate, surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and vineyards, offers a majestic experience for visitors. The architecture of the château itself is a marvel, and the historic cellars, filled with some of the most prized bottles in the world, further enhance the allure of this iconic estate.
Visiting Château Margaux is a journey into the heart of Bordeaux's winemaking tradition. Guests are treated to an intimate view of the winemaking process, from the meticulously maintained vineyards to the state-of-the-art winemaking facilities. The tour typically includes a visit to the grand cellar, where the wines age in perfect conditions, and often concludes with a tasting of their exquisite wines, providing a full immersion into the elegance and history that Château Margaux embodies.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 vintage of Château Margaux is a testament to the estate's ongoing pursuit of excellence. The wine is a blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot. This vintage is particularly noted for its purity, refinement, and vivacity. The aromas of violets, roses, and dark fruit are complemented by subtle notes of spice and new leather. On the palate, the wine is silky and polished, with seamless tannins that wrap around a core of vibrant red and black fruits.
Critic Scores
The 2023 Château Margaux has received some of the highest scores of the vintage, affirming its status as one of the finest wines of the year:
James Suckling: 99-100 points, praising its agility and bright, vivid acidity.
Antonio Galloni (Vinous): 97-100 points, calling it "fabulous, sensual, silky, and exceptionally polished."
Neal Martin: 97-99 points, describing it as a "quintessential Margaux."
Jeb Dunnuck: 96-100 points, emphasizing its depth, density, and sweet tannins.
Château Malescot St. Exupéry - Margaux
Château Malescot St. Exupéry, a Third Growth estate in the Margaux appellation, has a rich history dating back to 1616. The estate is named after Simon Malescot, a notable figure in Bordeaux's history, and Jean Baptiste de Saint-Exupéry, the great-grandfather of the famous author of Le Petit Prince. The château has been under the ownership of the Zuger family since 1955, and they have worked tirelessly to restore the estate to its former glory. The vineyard spans 45 hectares of gravel soils mixed with clay and chalk, providing an ideal terroir for producing high-quality Bordeaux wines.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 vintage of Château Malescot St. Exupéry is a blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot. This vintage is characterized by its deep color and intense aromas of cherries, blackcurrants, and delicate notes of licorice and chocolate. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with a luscious, silky texture and supple tannins. The wine also features a harmonious profile with a core of ripe, rounded black fruits and a long, driven finish, showcasing the classic elegance of Margaux.
Critic Scores
The 2023 Château Malescot St. Exupéry has received high praise from critics:
James Suckling: 96-97 points, noting the wine's deep, beautiful palate with cherries, chocolate, and hazelnut.
William Kelley (Wine Advocate): 93-95 points, commending its fleshy, succulent character and depth.
Antonio Galloni (Vinous): 92-94 points, highlighting its powerful structure and old-school Margaux style.
Château Palmer - Margaux
Château Palmer, a prestigious Third Growth estate in the Margaux appellation, is renowned for producing wines of exceptional finesse and complexity. The estate, with its picturesque vineyards and historic château, offers visitors an enchanting experience. The vineyard is primarily planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, spread across gravelly soils that contribute to the wine's elegance and depth. The château itself is a stunning example of Bordeaux's architectural heritage, providing a perfect backdrop for tasting some of the most revered wines of the region.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 vintage of Château Palmer is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 46% Merlot, and 4% Petit Verdot. This vintage is described as sensational, with a deep, inky color and an expressive bouquet of blackcurrants, wild blueberries, and Morello cherries, accompanied by notes of tar, crushed rocks, and iron ore. On the palate, it is full-bodied with a satiny texture, bright acidity, and a lingering finish, showcasing the wine's power and finesse.
Critic Scores
The 2023 Château Palmer has garnered exceptional scores from leading critics:
Antonio Galloni: 98-100 points, describing it as "a breathtaking wine" with remarkable balance and aromatic intensity.
James Suckling: 97-98 points, praising its vivid density, structure, and ultra-fine tannins.
Neal Martin: 95-97 points, noting its powerful structure and long-term aging potential.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown: 96-98 points, highlighting the wine's bright, shimmery berry flavors and satiny texture.
Château Brane-Cantenac - Margaux
Château Brane-Cantenac, a Second Growth estate located in the Margaux appellation, is renowned for its elegant and refined wines. The estate has been under the stewardship of Henri Lurton since 1992, who has been instrumental in enhancing its reputation as one of the leading properties in Margaux. The vineyards, comprising 75 hectares, are primarily planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, with smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc and Carmenère, all of which contribute to the complexity and balance of the wines.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 vintage of Château Brane-Cantenac is a blend of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% Carmenère, and 1% Petit Verdot. This vintage is particularly noted for its harmony, combining freshness and power in equal measure. The wine offers floral aromas of violets and pressed flowers, with underlying notes of blackberries and dark cherries. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with a silky-smooth texture, fine tannins, and a well-balanced structure. The finish is long and nuanced, with a touch of graphite that adds to its classic Margaux character.
Critic Scores
The 2023 Château Brane-Cantenac has received impressive scores from critics:
Antonio Galloni (Vinous): 94-96 points, praising its depth and the expressive nature of its fruit.
Jeb Dunnuck: 95-97 points, highlighting its classical style and floral aromatics.
James Suckling: 95-96 points, noting its bright character and lively acidity.
William Kelley (Wine Advocate): 93-95 points, commending its rich, fleshy core and creamy oak integration.
These wines from the 2023 En Primeur tastings exemplify the potential and diversity of the Bordeaux vintage. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the world of wine investing, these selections are sure to captivate and inspire. For more detailed reviews and purchasing options, visit Vinum Fine Wines, Wine Searcher, and James Suckling.
Top Bordeaux Wineries of Pessac-Leognan: The Cradle of Bordeaux’s Greatness
Pessac-Léognan is often regarded as the birthplace of Bordeaux’s winemaking tradition, with a history that dates back centuries. The terroir of this region is distinctive, with gravelly soils that are perfect for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, the primary grapes used in the region's red wines. The cooler climate, influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding pine forests, contributes to the wines’ refined acidity and aromatic complexity.
Château La Mission Haut-Brion - Pessac-Léognan
Château La Mission Haut-Brion, located in the esteemed Pessac-Léognan appellation, is one of Bordeaux's most revered estates, often considered the sibling to the legendary Château Haut-Brion. With a rich history dating back to the 16th century, the estate is known for producing powerful and complex wines that are celebrated for their depth, longevity, and distinctive character. The vineyards are situated on prime gravel soils that contribute to the exceptional quality of the wines, making La Mission Haut-Brion a benchmark for Bordeaux excellence.
Visiting Château La Mission Haut-Brion is an immersive experience that offers a glimpse into the rich history and meticulous craftsmanship behind one of Bordeaux's greatest wines. The estate is located just outside the city of Bordeaux, in the heart of the Graves region. As you approach the château, you are greeted by the estate's elegant architecture, surrounded by meticulously maintained vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see.
The tour typically begins with a walk through the historic vineyards, where you can observe the carefully tended vines that produce the estate's renowned wines. The gravelly soils, which are key to the terroir's distinctive qualities, are evident throughout the property. Visitors are then guided through the winemaking facilities, where state-of-the-art technology meets traditional winemaking techniques. The estate's cellars, where the wines age in French oak barrels, offer a serene and atmospheric environment, allowing you to appreciate the care and precision that go into every bottle.
One of the highlights of visiting Château La Mission Haut-Brion is the tasting experience. Guests have the opportunity to sample some of the estate's recent vintages, including the grand vin, which consistently ranks among the best in Bordeaux. The tasting provides a full appreciation of the wine's complexity, with layers of flavors that unfold on the palate, reflecting the estate's dedication to quality and its exceptional terroir.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 vintage of Château La Mission Haut-Brion is a blend of 52.7% Merlot, 29.6% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 17.7% Cabernet Franc. This vintage is marked by its richness and concentration, offering a deep, dark red color and an intense aromatic profile. The wine opens with aromas of ripe red fruits, dark wild berries, and spring flowers, accompanied by subtle notes of burning embers and lilac. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with a dense core of fruit, firm tannins, and a layered, textured profile that suggests significant aging potential.
Critic Scores
The 2023 Château La Mission Haut-Brion has received exceptional reviews:
Jeb Dunnuck: 96-100 points, praising its finesse and power.
James Suckling: 97-98 points, highlighting its depth and complexity.
William Kelley (Wine Advocate): 94-96 points, noting its rich, concentrated profile.
Vinous (Neal Martin): 93-95 points, appreciating its classical style and balance.
Château Haut-Brion - Pessac-Léognan
Château Haut-Brion, one of Bordeaux’s most esteemed First Growths, is located in the Pessac-Léognan appellation and is celebrated for producing some of the most complex and long-lived wines in the world. The estate's history dates back to 1525, making it one of the oldest wine-producing properties in Bordeaux. Visiting Château Haut-Brion offers a glimpse into this rich history and an opportunity to experience firsthand the meticulous care and precision that go into crafting their renowned wines.
A visit to Château Haut-Brion is a journey through time, offering a unique blend of history and modern winemaking. The château itself is an architectural gem, surrounded by beautifully manicured vineyards that showcase the estate's commitment to excellence. Guests can tour the historic cellars, where the wines age in French oak barrels, and learn about the estate's innovative approach to viticulture, which seamlessly combines tradition with cutting-edge technology.
The tasting experience at Château Haut-Brion is particularly special. Visitors can sample the estate’s grand vin, which is known for its depth, complexity, and potential for long aging. The tasting often includes a selection of recent vintages, allowing guests to appreciate the evolution of the wine and the distinct characteristics of each vintage.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 vintage of Château Haut-Brion is a blend of 52.3% Merlot, 38.6% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 9.1% Cabernet Franc. This vintage is distinguished by its deep garnet-purple color and a complex bouquet of plum preserves, black cherry compote, wild blueberries, peonies, crushed stones, and hints of licorice and wood smoke. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with layers of black and blue fruits, a firm backbone of tannins, and an energetic, mineral-accented finish.
Critic Scores
The 2023 Château Haut-Brion has been highly praised by critics, receiving some of the highest scores of the vintage:
Jane Anson: 98-100 points, noting its elegant balance and structured layers.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown: 98-100 points, commending its jaw-dropping energy and firm backbone.
James Suckling: 98-99 points, highlighting its tight, structured finish.
Antonio Galloni: 95-97 points, describing it as sumptuous and dazzling.
William Kelley (Wine Advocate): 95-97 points, appreciating its depth and velvety tannins.
Château Haut-Bailly - Pessac-Léognan
Château Haut-Bailly, a distinguished estate in the Pessac-Léognan appellation, is known for producing some of the most elegant and refined wines in Bordeaux. With a history dating back to the 16th century, the estate has a reputation for crafting wines that balance power with grace, showcasing the unique terroir of the Graves region. The vineyard spans 30 hectares and is planted with a mix of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc, all of which contribute to the complexity and depth of the wines.
A visit to Château Haut-Bailly offers a deep dive into Bordeaux’s rich winemaking tradition. The estate is set amid serene surroundings, with vineyards that gently slope towards the historic château. Guests can explore the meticulously maintained vineyards, where the gravelly soils and careful vine management are evident. The tour typically includes a visit to the modern winemaking facilities and the historic cellars, where the wines are aged in new oak barrels. The tasting experience at Haut-Bailly is a highlight, where visitors can sample some of the estate's finest vintages, gaining an appreciation for the subtle nuances that define each year’s production.
2023 Vintage and Tasting Notes
The 2023 vintage of Château Haut-Bailly is a blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Petit Verdot. This vintage is particularly noted for its balance and precision, offering aromas of blackcurrants, cassis, and lead pencil, with an underlying mineral character. On the palate, the wine is dense and focused, with ultra-fine tannins and a polished, svelte texture that embodies the estate’s sophisticated style.
Critic Scores
The 2023 Château Haut-Bailly has been widely praised by critics:
James Suckling: 97-98 points, highlighting its sophisticated and polished nature.
Wine Independent (Lisa Perrotti-Brown): 96-98 points, noting its purity of fruit and refined tannins.
Vinous (Neal Martin): 96-98 points, appreciating its focus and density.
Decanter: 96 points, commending its elegance and depth.
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