Blason d'Issan 2023

Really expressive, dried flowers, green and red fruit. Herbal notes and dark, ripe black fruit on the palate with chalky minerality. It’s a little serious, though nicely defined, with a good weight. Juicy and clean, I like the style; it’s classy with lots of minty Cabernet freshness on the finish. Lifted, if still a touch austere at this point. Could be upscored in bottle. 3.50 pH. Ageing 35% new oak.

Dark ruby, purple reflections, brightening on the rim. Delicately tobacco-like, floral touch, fresh strawberry notes, red cherries, inviting bouquet. Juicy, fruity texture, some ripe fig, lingers with distinctive aromas, mineral, salty, already very inviting.

The Malbec character is pretty dominant on the nose, with spicy plum and damson, leafy and fragrant, sinewy and juicy. Love the balance here; it’s moreish, with mouth-watering salinity. 30% oak for ageing. Outstanding value. Jacques Boissenot consultant.

Score: 91–93. Deep and generous, the nose opens with aromas of crisp red berries (redcurrant, wild strawberry, burlat cherry) and wild strawberry coulis. A sumptuous fruit greets the palate, with some meaty, smoky notes and decadent floral aromas. The pure, silky texture carries through to a chalky finish.

Flowers, spice, and ripe red berries form the main focus here. Medium-bodied, soft, juicy, and fresh, with soft, silky tannins, a touch of sweetness, and a cherry-driven finish. Give it a year to soften and it will be perfect for near-term drinking while you wait for the Grand Vin to develop. Drink from 2026–2037. 89–91 pts.