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.

From vines on the south- and east-facing slopes of the limestone plateau, Faugères clearly showcases the freshness of its terroir. The bouquet reveals chalky notes along with subtle aromas of dark fruit, cherries and spices. With compact, perfectly integrated tannins, the wine handles its power with serenity and elegance. It unfolds in a linear fashion across the palate, distinguished by its harmony, a vibrant structure and a mouthwatering finish. A wine that brings together charm, character, finesse and power! What an extraordinary journey, orchestrated by Vincent Cruège and his team.

Ripe and fragrant on the nose. A touch oaky on the palate from the first sip, with notes of dark chocolate, tobacco, cedar and leather that overtake the glossy fruit. The tannins are excellent, but the flavours haven’t quite come together yet. Slightly dry on the finish.