Château La Gaffelière 2023

65% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon. I'll never forget the moment when, after tasting La Gaffelière 2021, I called Alexandre de Malet to tell him that he and his team had succeeded in making one of the best, if not the best, Gaffelière of the last ten years? and that was in 2021! I'm not going to call him every time, of course, but if we take 2021, 2022 and 2023, we can talk without hesitation about a trio of shockers of exceptional quality. 2023 stands out for its freshness and precision. It creates a link between mineral, vegetable, fruity and spicy nuances, with a striking complicity between each element. The lively, silky background on the palate also underlines the harmony of the taste. The tannins are fine, precise, serene and in harmony with the incisive character of the acidity! That's limestone... we owe it a debt of gratitude. A sparkling, salivating wine. 2029-2063

Dark, intense purple colour. Very aromatic nose, fine, fruity, pure, subtle and complex. Hints of blackberry and vanilla on shaking the glass. All the magic of this wine is there. The wine evolves meticulously, delicately fleshy and very tasty. Smooth, juicy, subtle and noble, the finish is deep and undeniable, dominated by the flavours of black fruits and fine, meticulous tannins. A great success. Blend: 60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc. Alcohol content: 14°4 - pH: 3.5. Yield: 45 hl/ha. Matured in 50% new barrels, of which 12% in 500-litre barrels and 2% in amphorae.

The center-palate reflects excellent terroir, with blackberry, black-olive and walnut aromas and flavors. Tight center-palate with firm but creamy tannins and a flavorful, classy finish.

In the 2023 vintage, while the elusive scent of violets may be slightly diminished, the wine still retains its crisp floral and fruity notes. Aromas of lychee, floral tea, strawberry, and blueberry dance gracefully like an Irish jig, tapping on the palate with a cheerful rhythm. The 40% Merlot brings a refreshing and smooth texture, while the 10% stem fermentation adds nuances of orange peel and rosemary freshness. The only aspect worth noting is that the tannins are slightly more pronounced, leaving anticipation for an even more splendid performance after aging.