This is showing the limestone magic of 2023. Medium-bodied and very polished with a tight, linear structure, but purity of fruit and wonderful length. Silky texture. So bright. 85% merlot and 15% cabernet franc.

The 2023 La Clotte was picked September 11 to 28 and aged for 18 months in new oak barrels. This has a little more precision and mineralité on the nose compared to the Moulin Saint-Georges quite vibrant with shucked oyster shell in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with svelte tannins that lend a satin-like texture. It’s very harmonious though not deep and maybe it misses a bit of grip. That said more extraction probably would have thrown off the balance here. Very seductive.

Crafted from vines planted in one of the best terroirs of Saint-Émilion, the 2023 La Clotte, a blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, reveals aromas of almonds, cherries, dark wild berries and raw cocoa, followed by a medium to full-bodied, lively and tense palate with youthfully structured tannins and a fleshy core of fruit with bright acids that segues into a long, penetrating and saline finish.

The 2023 La Clotte is a very serious wine. La Clotte is 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc but the Franc feels especially prominent at this stage. Saline notes run through core of plum blood orange white flowers crushed rocks and white pepper. A shy introspective wine this will need a number of years to be at its best but it is immensely promising.

85% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc. Cask sample. Ripe and creamy with succulent, red-berry fruit and plenty of persistence and drive. Finely honed tannins and freshness on the finish. Wholesome and balanced. (JL)