The 2015 La Gaffelière is a wine of total finesse. Much less obvious and overt than most Saint-Émilions in this vintage, La Gaffelière makes its case on harmony and grace above all else. Bright, lifted Cabernet Franc–infused aromatics give the 2015 striking freshness and aromatic presence. The flavors are bright and nuanced to the core, with plenty of red cherry, espresso and floral notes. But back to the basics. In 2015 La Gaffelière is a wine that stands out because of its impeccable balance and sense of proportion. I loved it. Tasted two times. vinous.com, February 2018

Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 La Gaffeliere has a slightly reticent, broody nose of black truffles, fertile loam and mossy bark over a core of warm plums, crushed black berries and black cherries plus a touch of iron ore. Medium to full-bodied with firm and very finely grained tannins with layers of softly spoken fruit and great freshness, it finishes long. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Interim Issue Mid-February 2018, The Wine Advocate

Impressive deep-set dark cherries, blueberries and dark plums here with neatly fitted spicy oak, which adds immediate complexity. Deep, long and fresh with vibrant acidity, underpinning ripe blackberries, plums and hints of chocolate. Superb wine. Try from 2022.

The 2015 La Gaffeliere is a blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc. It offers attractive black cherries, boysenberry and mulberry fruit on the nose. Maybe it would benefit from a little more delineation, but the aromatics are focused and in sync with the oak. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannin. The acidity is pitched nicely here lending ample freshness and poise. Energetic and vivacious, this is one of the best barrel samples that I have tasted from an estate that was revered during the 1960s. Time for a comeback?

An up-and-coming St. Emilion with vines located on the lower slopes of the town and overlooked by the exceptional Ausone estate. Tight, muted nose, just a hint of sweet spice and red fruit. Fine, silken tannins, good structure. Sultry, fruit-driven style with lots of ripe red fruit and plush plum flavours. Elegant, pretty and long. Really attractive. (70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc.)

A textbook modern St.-Emilion, with a core bursting with ripe plum and raspberry fruit, and a long finish that pumps out licorice and bramble accents. The fruit is matched by the energy.

A Stéphane Derenoncourt wine. Meaty nose. Sweet and a tiny bit blowsy. A bit dry on the end. Pretty dramatic. If you seek impact, head for this hedonistic wine. I may have underscored it.
Drink 2024-2036