Château La Garde 2023 en Primeur

A step change for La Garde this year with a majority of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend. Floral and fragrant, really alive on the nose, expressive and so energetic. Fruit forward and lively, I love the finesse and the construction, really well made, layered with lots of minerality, crunchy red fruits, great acidity and focus on the crushed stones, graphite and pencil led. It has a smooth body, with a grip to the tannins but lots of focus and definition to the elements. Quite a serious take but all harmonious, nothing sticking out with plenty of underlying power. Polished and accomplished. A top value pick and exciting project to follow. Axel Marchal consultant. No Petit Verdot in the blend this year. 4% press wine - more so than in previous vintages. 35% grand vin production reduced from 50%.

Garnet colour, purple reflections. Aromas of fine oak, dark berries, fresh cherries, a mineral touch, floral, some orange zest. Medium complexity, cherries, integrated tannins, lively, lingers long, a versatile wine for the table.

Solid and structured with good volume and length, showing notes of dark fruit and walnuts. Medium-bodied with compact, velvety tannins. The finish is firm and even.

The 2022 La Garde has an elegant and fresh bouquet with aromas of cassis, blueberry, raspberry, spices and violet. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is round and seamless with velvety tannins, a concentrated texture and a long and penetrating finish with hints of oak and a firm, tannic sensation. It's a blend of 63% Merlot and 37% Cabernet Sauvignon.