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.

Deep plum colour, this is vibrant and full of character, brambled fruit, we are in full hedgerow charm here, juicy, savoury, a ton of intensity and salinity. Chocolate, salted cracker, grip. Single point upscore.

Fieuzal’s bouquet unfolds in a gradual crescendo, with no single dominant note, aiming instead to reveal the many nuances that compose it. Supported by compact, juicy tannins, the wine has considerable ageing potential. Its silky tannins go hand in hand with a structuring freshness, while delicate bitter notes reinforce the aromatic persistence on the finish. A wine that is still coming together, yet has the merit of clearly showing where it is headed through its temperament and the freshness of its definition. It will need time, as it promises superb prospects.

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.

Dark colour, of normal intensity with a purplish hue. Intense, refined nose, fruity and pure. Delicate on the attack, with a typical aroma of resin and smoky wood, the wine melts on the palate, juicy and particularly aromatic on the finish. A meticulous, refined overall impression, medium-bodied and hard to spit out. Priority given to aroma.