Château Gloria 2023

Expressive and herbal, with violets over red and dark berries, underpinned by a stony note; on the palate, densely built, highly elegant, with plenty of tension, breed, polish, and an enjoyable length. High level.

Distinctly floral aromas quite beguiled my senses—a brilliant start—leading to a pretty palate: balanced, clean, and with plenty of charm. Tasted a second time, I noticed some raw tannin, but that can be resolved with barrel ageing (38% new for the 2023 vintage). Overall, an excellent St-Julien, and for a very good price.

The 2023 Gloria has a well-defined bouquet with a mixture of red and blueberry fruit, crushed violet and peony, quite Margaux-like in style. The palate is medium-bodied with finely tuned tannins, quite fresh and vibrant, not a powerful Saint-Julien but this has developed more clarity and nuance during its élevage. Very fine.

Flowers and cherries define the nose, and bring you to its vibrant, medium-bodied, red berry, and spice-driven, elegant, and bright finish. Forward in style, the wine will be ready for enjoyment just about on release. The wine is produced from 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. Drink from 2027-2043.

Dark ruby colour, opaque core, purple reflections, brightening on the edge. Delicately tobacco-like, a hint of cassis, dark wild berries, candied orange zest, an inviting bouquet. Taut, finely meshed, red-berry notes, mineral and fresh, delicately leafy on the finish, a lively food wine.

Love the inky depths of plummy fruits and deep, rich chocolate notes; great quality with depth and balance. Last year of organic conversion.

Score: 90–92. The nose releases lifted, lofty aromas of precious flowers and red fruits, with a spicy touch. On the palate, the wine shows lovely breadth and generosity, with a deliciously tangy backbone reminiscent of redcurrant and blueberry. However, it lacks harmony at this stage.

Vivid boysenberry, plum reduction and açaí fruit drives along with clarity and focus thanks to a racy graphite spine. Mouthwatering apple wood and solid cast iron accents help lengthen the finish as the fruit keeps pace. It’s hard to be any more St.-Julien than this. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2028 through 2042. 20,000 cases made, 6,000 cases imported.