The 2023 La Chénade is gorgeous. Dark, ample and resonant on the palate, the 2023 possesses remarkable intensity from start to finish. Black cherry, cloves, lavender, menthol and licorice caress the palate. This silky, sensual Lalande-de-Pomerol is an absolute delight. www.vinous.com March 2026

Dark plums and ripe strawberries with a touch of dried herbs and roasted spices. Medium- to full-bodied with a flavorful center palate coated by dusty tannins. Long, generous and well-balanced. 100% merlot. Drink now or hold. Zekun Shuai www.jamessuckling.com December 2025

Dark red and black cherry notes on the nose with dried herbs and some leather. Density and acidity in spades here, I like the softly chewy tannins and bright burst of juiciness. Tapers to a salty, long and cooling finish. Fresh and extremely drinkable. I love the weight on the palate. You want to drink this straight away. Georgina Hindle February 2026

All Merlot raised in 40% new French oak, the 2023 Chateau La Chenade is brilliant stuff that's going to be well worth your time and money. Its deep purple hue is followed by a floral, layered, graceful 2023 that shines on all accounts. Ripe black cherries, spring flowers, orange blossom, and leafy tobacco all emerge from the glass, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a round, layered, seductive mouthfeel and a great finish. Savvy readers will buy a case of this for drinking over the coming decade or more. Drink 2026-2036. www.jebdunnuck.com March 2026

The 2023 La Chenade has a little more brightness and delineation compared to the Saintayme at the moment. Red cherry mixed with raspberry and just a hint of truffle in the background. The palate is medium-bodied, with saturated tannins that lend this a fleshy mouthfeel. There is a bit more tension and "bite" compared to the Saintayme, with ample weight and precision on the finish. This is a lovely Lalande de Pomerol to enjoy over the next 12 to 18 years. www.vinous.com February 2026

The 2023 La Chenade shows a dark, somber profile, evoking aromas of gentian, licorice, mulberries and violet. Medium-bodied with a layered and rich palate, it’s creamy and enrobing with velvety tannins and a long, firm finish. It was made entirely from Merlot grapes that are matured in new oak barrels, comprising 40% of the total.

100% Merlot. All the Cabernet Franc is in Les Cruzelles this year. Cask sample. Hedgerow-fruit notes. Juicy, round and fresh. Lighter weight and frame with powdery tannins on the finish. Earlier drinking. (JL)