Château La Croix de Gay 2023

Delicate, herbal, sour cherries, damsons; light-footed on the palate, fine tannins, showing harmony and elegance, with a pleasantly long finish, ending on blood orange. Likely to be enjoyable early.

A lighter-styled Pomerol that works for me in this vintage as it exudes elegance with mid-palate plum and red-fruit juiciness, accentuated by light oak-derived toast. A hint of chopped herb adds freshness to the finish. A wine to enjoy on the younger side.

95% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc. Cask sample. Red fruit with a leafy, earthy edge. Same on the palate, the tannins present but integrated. A touch of warmth on the finish as well as a bit of chew. Needs a bit more precision. (JL)

Dark ruby, purple reflections, brightening on the rim. Dark cherries, violets, some blackberry confit, inviting bouquet, some tangerine zest. Juicy, elegant, ripe cherries, substantial texture, round tannins, fine nougat on the finish, shows length and a certain ageing potential.

Restrained opening, delicately smoky aromas, graphite, with red currant nectar and blood orange zest in the background. On the compact palate, soft texture, vibrant tension and a tightly knit body. Focused finish with morello cherries, cooled rosehip tea and sandy astringency.

The second vintage where this seems to be slightly underperforming its usual excellence of Pomerol character. Rich spice notes, grilled and enticing oak, soft strawberry fruit that seems to be skirting full ripeness. Sibling estate to La Fleur de Gay, both owned by the Raynaud-Lebreton family, Axel Marchal consultant. Yield of 42 hl/ha.