Château Poesia 2023

The 2023 Poesia is stellar, just as it was en primeur. Brisk mineral notes drive through a core of red cherry/plum fruit, white pepper, blood orange and exotic spice. I admire its energy, tension and power. The 2023 is all about balance. Limestone soils lend great saline intensity.

Just about equal, but different stylistically from Barde Haut, here you find a vivid display of flowers, oceanic nuances, espresso, mint, chocolate, and red fruits in the nose. The palate has great energy, supple, salt-crusted fruits that display purity and elegance. The wine is showing much better in the bottle than it did from barrel, which is always a good sign. This could be the best vintage of Poesia I have ever tasted! The wine blends 70% Merlot with 30% Cabernet Franc. Drink from 2027-2047.

Located near to Château Peby-Faugères, with plenty of natural concentration in these clay over limestone soils, and naturally low pH. In the glass this translates into cassis, liquorice root, anise, fennel, cocoa bean, slate, tight tannins. Needs skilful handling, which the team here has clearly done well, but be aware that it should be given a few years to soften. 9.5 ha, with many young vines.