Château de Fieuzal 2023

Light-fruited and floral, rose petals, raspberries; elegant palate, fresh, airy, perfectly judged tannins, not overbearing; good length, red-fruited, finely spicy finish. The potential of the vintage is well interpreted.

Opening with a mix of floral bouquet, raspberry and plum, the wine is more ethereal than usual from this estate: delicate, smooth tannins lead to a creamy mid-palate, not without structure, rather subtle, with ripe fruit sweetness, licorice and crushed tobacco freshness on the medium finish.

Black with red fruits, flowers and cherries create the perfume. Medium-bodied, with a strong sense of purity to the fruits, the wine is elegant, soft, and polished with layers of sweet, round, creamy berries on the mid-palate, and in the finish. The wine blends 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Petit Verdot. Drink from 2027-2045.

Vibrant plum in colour, with juiciness, density and grip—another sign of how they are evolving the structure and architecture of this wine, adding nuance without sacrificing complexity. Cocoa bean, sweet berry, fruits—this is delicious.

A nuanced wine that favors elegance over opulence. The expression of the Merlots is particularly successful. The bouquet offers an enticing array of vanilla, red fruits, and already a lovely freshness. The palate echoes these elements, adding a violet licorice finish.

The 2023 de Fieuzal is packed with black cherry, gravel, chocolate, menthol and a kiss of French oak. There's good depth and plenty of palate presence. I suppose this could use a touch more finesse, but there is nevertheless plenty to like.