Echo de Lynch-Bages 2023

Perfumed, expressive, yet with depth, floral notes, herbs; finely nuanced on the palate as well, precise tannins, top-notch acidity, shows breed and polish, long finish.

Flowers, currants, and cedar pop on the nose. Medium-bodied, soft, zesty, round, fresh, and vibrant, the savory-edged finish is loaded with ripe, sweet, red fruits, with a touch of herbs, dark chocolate, and spice. Drink from 2027-2040. 89-91 pts.

Rich and deep, cocoa bean, slate and espresso, so intense that you have to look twice to see that it is a 2nd wine. Tannins layer up through the palate, not drying but certainly chewy and firm, with lashings of blackberry and cassis fruit, held in place by espresso-laced tannins. Mix of new and one-year-old barrels for ageing, pH 3.63. Out to impress.

Score: 90–92. Very welcoming, the nose opens with gentle red-fruit aromas (strawberry macerated with vanilla, ripe raspberries) before developing into floral scents. Delicate notes echoed on the palate evoke a summer stroll on Swann’s side. The tight, chalky tannic core is more serious.

This shows a slightly extracted edge in the form of a plum skin note that drapes over a dark cherry and plum fruit core. Picks up savory, alder and iron hints through the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2027 through 2033.