Château Faugères 2023

Blackberry jam, cherries, floral notes; austere palate, noticeable tannins, drying effect, bitter finish; will it come together?

The 2023 Faugères is a very classy, elegant wine, and one of the most refined vintages of Silvio Denz's Saint-Émilion that I can remember tasting. Subtle floral, spice and savory notes weave through a core of dark-fleshed fruit in this super-impressive 2023.

I really like the wine's floral nature. It works perfectly with its layers of plush, polished, rich, ripe, sweet, and most importantly, long, creamy, fruit-filled finish with just a touch of savory, peppery herbs on the backend. This will be a beauty to enjoy upon release, or, if you prefer, age it a few years for greater complexity. The wine blends 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink from 2026-2045.

Deep dark ruby, opaque core, purple reflections, brightening on the rim. Blackberries, cherries, a touch of fine oak, inviting bouquet. Juicy, elegant, fresh, ripe cherries, round tannins, fine acidity, elegant with good persistence, certain ageing potential.

As always, a reflection of a powerful terroir that gives intense, concentrated wines, with cocoa bean and black pepper spice, a good lick of pumice stone, and well-handled if evident toasted oak.

Score: 85–87. Balsamic notes, blood orange and potpourri make up an overripe nose. The palate evokes rice powder and the tannins take charge.