Domaine de la Solitude 2023

Intense, ripe fruit, tobacco, tea; full-bodied palate, crisp fruit, well-judged tannins, lactic notes and forest fruits on the finish, good length.

The wine shows more structure than usual, reflecting Cabernet Sauvignon dominance, with graphite notes, yet it also exudes a pleasing, thirst‑quenching profile with fresh mint and ripe, tangy red fruit. Ageing in 30% new oak will soften the structure and improve the wine.

The 2023 Domaine de la Solitude has a light but elegant bouquet with blackberry, raspberry, cedar and light violet scents, hints of black olive emerging with time. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, a gentle but insistent grip with a refined and sapid finish that is a testament to some prudent winemaking. Delicious.

Medium-bodied, elegant, refined, soft, and forward, the wine pops with its combination of flowers, tobacco, and cherries. You can enjoy this on release, or age it, as it will develop additional complexity. This is clearly the finest vintage of Domaine de la Solitude ever produced. It is one of the best values in Pessac Leognan available today. The wine blends 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc. Drink from 2027-2038.

Austere, plenty of Left Bank character, layers of liquorice and dark chocolate, crushed mint leaf, cassis fruit, stretches out across the palate with a pumice-stone tannic grip. 33% new oak for ageing. Stéphane Derenoncourt consulting.

Score: 91–93. The elegance and length on the nose captivate from the outset with a powdery touch. On the palate, there are firm, tight tannins carried by a very fresh acidic backbone that preserves juiciness on the finish.

Confirmation this year of the progress. We remain captivated by the spectacular and elegant bouquet (lilac, crushed strawberry, redcurrant, plum in brandy), carried by a dynamic, well-balanced palate. The tannic structure is fine, tightened around fresh fruit. Fresh finish of licorice and mint.

90-92. Barrel Sample. The wine's black-currant fruits and firm tannins give richness and a fine layer of acidity. The wine has good potential over the medium term.