Chateau Clos de Bouard 2023

Refined bouquet, subtle oak, oregano; slender attack, clean fruit, fine-grained tannins, solid length, slightly drying finish.

Quite floral in its nature, the wine is fresh, fruity, elegant, lively, and packed with crushed rocks, sweet cherries, spice, espresso, licorice, and chocolate. Medium-bodied, with sweetness, and ripe berries with hints of salty cocoa, and racy acidities, this will offer pleasure in its youth, as well as age for over a decade. The wine blends 85% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink from 2026-2038. 91-93 Pts.

The nose is nicely aromatic, delicate and deep, with aromatic concentration, a fine, elegant darkness and a lovely breadth to the aromatic palette (complexity). It reveals notes of vibrant Bigarreau cherry, bright red berries and, more subtly, roasted-juicy blackcurrant, joined by touches of shiny black plum and violet, as well as discreet hints that are almost sage-like, a subtle touch of zan, cola, bergamot, spices and a discreet hint of pepper. The palate is nicely guided/defined, fruity, supple, suave, indulgent, delicious, juicy and tense, offering linearity, lovely freshness and beautiful balance. Supple and pure in its definition. Both ample and melodious. On the palate, this wine expresses notes of juicy/fleshy blackberry and fleshy/juicy blackcurrant, and more lightly, bright/vibrant Bigarreau cherry, with touches of dense/juicy small black plum, graphene and spices, as well as a subtle hint of infusion, sage and discreet hints of roasting/cocoa. The tannins are finely chalky and precise. A subtle touch of pleasant bitterness in the background (adds gourmandise and length).