Château Malescasse 2023

Open, with red and dark berries, a hint of cola and herbal spice; a slender palate, ripe tannins, the fruit is somewhat austere, yet with good aromatic length. Should be enjoyable early.

Mint, currants, tobacco, and strawberries from the core here. The wine is medium-bodied, chewy, and vibrant. This is one of those top value Left Bank wines with character that sell for a song. Drink from 2027-2036.

Deep ruby, purple reflections, broad brightening at the rim. Restrained, a hint of figs, delicate floral nuances, some hibiscus. Medium complexity, red cherries, fresh structure, mineral, offers uncomplicated drinking pleasure.

Delicate bouquet of red and blue berries, freshly picked blackcurrant, lilac and light tobacco. On the compact palate, a somewhat austere texture, sandy extract, underlying verve and a slightly rough-and-ready body. The focused, finely aromatic finish shows cranberry juice, tarragon and a floury astringency. Rounded off.

Dark fruit character, good balance, a touch of lift and length, a little dilute through the mid-palate. Philippe Austrey owner, Bertrand Chemin winemaker. 40% new oak for ageing, across a range of 500L, 300L, 225L barrels.

Score: 89–91. A very delicate, highly floral nose (rose, wisteria, iris) with elegance and finesse. The palate retains this suavity with a velvety texture, a line of great freshness, and a delicately mentholated finish.

At the junction of the Margaux and Saint-Julien terroirs, the wine of château Malescasse is undeniably seductive. Despite the climatic challenges of 2023, it continues its course among the great wines of Bordeaux. Its style is all about finesse, with a gentle, ample attack and a silky texture. Its radiant, complex bouquet unfolds with notes of country bread, blueberry jam, hyacinth and other spring flowers. It is a pleasure to enjoy now, and it clearly has a bright future ahead.