La Dame de Bouard 2022

Juicy and bright, clearly quite tannic giving a graphite, chalky and creamy texture, but a generous push of fruit from start to finish. Concentrated but well worked, clean and direct, focused with purity. Excellent acidity really gives the freshness and life, with the tannins giving some tension and restriction right now but this feels well worked and will be nice once it has softened a bit. HVE certified.

A well-made, structured and vivid red. This shows aromas of currants, dried herbs and baking spices. Medium-bodied, refined and pulpy, it has fine tannins and a flavorful finish. Try from 2026.

Vibrant aromas of cherries, licorice, and wet earth pack the bouquet. Medium-bodied, soft, refined, and fresh, this is ready to deliver pleasure on release. And as a tip, this little gem sells for a song! Drink from 2025–2031.

Ruby red, an attractive color that reflects the ripeness of the vintage without pushing too hard. A touch of reduction on the nose; it needs to open up, but there is an earthy charm here. The heat from the alcohol is well balanced by slate-like tannins, a roughly hewn limestone character, nothing too polished. Plenty of charm, with sweet, ripe berry fruit.

Between sweet spices, crushed red fruits and a hint of smoke, the nose weaves through and reveals various pleasant facets, though not yet harmonious. With aeration, a few vegetal notes bring a rustic freshness. On the palate, a big tannic structure driven by still-prominent oak, yet the texture remains velvety. The finish lingers on red fruit and spices.

The nose is intense, with controlled power, freshness, and good definition. It reveals notes of wild blackberry and wild strawberry, and, more discreetly, pepper, combined with touches of small berries as well as fine hints of lily, bay leaf, and spices. The palate is fruity, with freshness, minerality, a lively backbone, tanginess, juiciness, suppleness, and a certain brightness. There are notes of juicy, pulpy blackcurrant and fleshy strawberries, and, more discreetly, vibrant cherry, combined with touches of violet and lily, plus hints of spices such as wild berries, sweet pepper, a fine touch of nutmeg, and discreet, almost sappy and toasted notes. Good length.