Château Dauzac 2023

Stunning on the nose, with expressive fruit, balsamic notes, herbs and toasty aromas; a delicate palate, polished tannins, light-footed yet dense, with a refreshing, saline finish. Pure elegance.

This is expressive, with a slightly high-pitched burst of mulberry and pomegranate notes liberally inlaid with violet and rose hip details. There’s a pretty twinge of iron buried in the long, focused finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best from 2027 through 2037. 7,715 cases made, 800 cases imported.

Elegant, soft, and refined, the wine pops with its floral edge. From there, the ripe, sweet cherries, hint of espresso, licorice, and juicy berries in the finish really linger. Drink from 2028-2045.

Dark garnet, purple reflections, discreet brightening on the rim. Somewhat restrained, dark cherries, some herbal savouriness, candied orange zest, figs underneath. Medium complexity, red berries, somewhat loosely knit, subtle tannins, lemony nuances in the finish, an uncomplicated style.

An opulent blueberry-driven bouquet with blueberry jelly, licorice, violet and elderberry juice. The palate is linear, with a supple texture, vibrant tension, a tightly knit tannic frame and a very taut body. The long, concentrated finish shows cherry skin, dark graphite and a finely sandy astringency.

This has delivered on En Primeur promise, retains a slight austerity that I am finding in many of these 2023s but these are early days, and there is a ton of cocoa bean, black chocolate, liquorice and sandalwood that will continue to expand and add a gourmet touch as it ages, alongside black fruits, fennel, slate and anis. Great stuff. 90% French oak barrels for ageing, 65% new, 10% in amphora. 35hl/ha yields.

Score: 93-95. Sweet spices (cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla) mingle with pure, crisp raspberry and cherry aromas, hinting at the opening notes of a gourmet dessert. The palate, delicate and velvety, brings to mind a basket of freshly picked summer fruits—once again pure and crisp—with a definite tenderness.

The freshness of the bouquet suggests a linear wine, supported by compact tannins and a well-defined structure. Harmonious and slightly creamy, it unfolds seamlessly with precision. It can be enjoyed in its youth, while also offering respectable aging potential. A flavorful, inviting wine.

Deep, intense color with bright highlights. Moderately aromatic, fruity nose. A touch of alcohol. Delicate on entry, suave through the mid-palate, the wine develops pleasantly before being marked by a slight acidity on the finish. Medium length.