Château Langoa Barton 2023

Dark fruit, ripe, expansive, finely spicy, clear and pure like a mountain stream; shows flesh on the bone, juicy fruit, fine-grained tannins; very long, saline finish, harmonious, will be enjoyable early, can age.

While the nose lacks the éclat of a recent run of excellent vintages here, with a more downbeat expression, there is no denying the classy expression of the Cabernet Sauvignon, which makes up 60% of the blend. There is poise in an expression not only of cassis but floral rose. Furthermore, the wine has a solid tannic edge, which will be tamed during the barrel ageing at 60% new oak, which also should broaden the palate. All this augurs well for cellaring. I also like the alcohol and acidity balance, and while the barrel sample lacks the depth of a superior vintage like 2020 - tasted on two occasions - it shows refinement reflecting St-Julien. Potential for a higher score in bottle.

Deep dark ruby, opaque core, purple reflections. Delicate notes of plums, dark forest berries, a hint of cassis, fine tobacco nuances. Medium body, red currants, fine tannins, somewhat slender on the finish, offering uncomplicated drinking pleasure.

Solid tannins, gorgeous iris and violet highlights, blueberry and cassis fruits, shot through with cigar box notes. This is a fairly old-school Langoa in the best possible way, juicy, sappy, nuanced, with chalky tannins that lift through the palate.

Score: 92–94. The refined nose offers a very pretty floral bouquet (rose, iris, violet) that reveals peppery aromas, with abundant ripe fruit and sap. On the palate, the wine is both supple and flavorful, with waves of creamy fruit that caress the tongue. The tannins are discreet, and the fresh finish brings a lovely extra energy.

The nose is fruity, delectable, precise and offers suppleness. It reveals notes of violet and blackberry and, more subtly, fresh Timut pepper, with touches of blackberry, fresh dense black berries, plus a hint of graphite and iodine. The palate is fruity, fresh, mineral, well-balanced, delivering a juicy/tangy backbone, purity, gourmandise, accuracy, tension, a delicate crystalline edge, power and well-judged concentration. It shows notes of juicy/fresh blackberry, juicy/pulpy raspberry, vivid redcurrant and, more delicately, star anise, joined by a touch of fresh blond tobacco and smoke, as well as a subtle hint of pulpy blue plum and pepper, bright/tangy small berries, and fresh minerality. Good sapidity.

Already offering tertiary notes of tobacco, smoke, cedar, herbs, blackberries and flowers on the nose, the wine is dark, chewy, lifted, concentrated, and I really like the refreshing touch of minty freshness in the classically styled finish. The wine blends 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc. Drink from 2029-2055.

94-96. Barrel Sample. An impressive tannic wine with ripeness balanced by a core of dry structure. This is a delicious wine, initially firm and tense giving it fine potential.

A juicy red, with brambly grip that carries its lively flavors of red and black currant paste. Mesquite and apple wood lace up the finish. Youthfully edgy but modest in scale, so this is approachable. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2037. 7,500 cases made.