Château Grand Mayne 2023

Mineral-driven, rather shy, with red fruit and dried herbs; juicy on the palate, slightly powdery tannins, well-structured, characterful and dynamic, good length, finishing spicy.

With aromas of red fruit, quite chipper and friendly, the palate reflects more pleasing limestone aspects, even if a tad timid in expressing red fruit ripeness, along with crushed mint and allspice. I like the juicy mid-palate. The structured tannin leads to a medium finish but is just slightly standoffish. The 18 months of ageing in 50% new oak should soften the finish.

The 2023 Grand-Mayne is impressive, but it is also very young and in need of time. Black fruit, gravel, incense, licorice, leather, scorched earth and sweet French oak stain the palate. This large-scaled, broad Saint-Émilion needs time to be at its best. The style leans very much into the more opulent end of the spectrum. Tasted two times.

Elegant, finesse-driven wine packed with espresso, smoke, flowers, cherries, plums, chocolate, and licorice. Medium-bodied, refined, soft, and supple, this is already quite charming and is only going to get better from here with a few years in the bottle. The wine blends 75% Merlot with 25% Cabernet Franc. Drink from 2027-2045.

Dark garnet, deep core, purple reflections, brighter at the edge. Restrained fruit, delicate blueberry, black cherry, candied orange zest. Medium body, red cherries, vivid tannins, slightly drying on the finish, medium length, some nougat on the aftertaste.

Bright ruby red, vivid depths to the body of the wine, well balanced, kick of eucalyptus and mint, hint of grilled cloves, with clear juice and limestone grip running through the black cherry and damson fruit. The Nony family has produced another exceptional vintage here. 50% new. 49hl/ha yield. Possible upscore in bottle.

Score: 91–93. A deep, hedonistic bouquet of ripe strawberries and faded flowers, with meaty, almost ferrous notes. The palate is likewise sun-drenched, decadent. Floral notes brighten the velvety finish.

The vines dedicated to Grand Mayne are located on a clay-limestone hillside and on sandy-clay lower slopes. Ageing in barrels (40% new and 60% barrels used for one or two wines, as well as foudres). The bouquet immediately highlights its finesse, as usual, with the added bonus of a subtle burst of fruit. The silky texture, noticeable from the attack, further enhances the wine’s refinement, while the tannins bring well-framed power that ensures longevity and persistence.

Disappointing! Dark, deep colour. Moderately intense nose, fruity and truffly, with a hint of oak. The palate is disappointing. The wine develops into a rather light, oaky finish. It bears no resemblance to the description published En Primeur. Tasted twice with the same result.