The wines from the outstanding 2023 vintage are now gradually being released in bottles. Their distinctly hedonistic character was already evident at the primeur tastings two years ago.
In February, I had another opportunity to taste numerous wines from the vintage at Wine Paris - and the impression was impressively confirmed.
2023 was an exceptionally warm year without the heat being reflected in the wines. Instead, they are lush, concentrated and remarkably balanced. Ripe but not overripe fruit - dark, dense and juicy - as well as silky tannins and a fine, supporting acidity characterise this vintage.
Like every great Bordeaux, 2023 also has a clear stylistic signature. In many ways, it is reminiscent of the legendary 1990 vintage, which is still one of the great references today. Its hedonistic orientation and immediate accessibility even reveal parallels with the iconic 1959.
It is hardly surprising that the vintage also impressed in the final assessment by The Wine Advocate. Under the direction of William Kelley, numerous top ratings were awarded: Château Lafleur, Château Cheval Blanc and Château La Conseillante each achieved 100 points. They are followed by wineries such as Château Montrose with 99+ points and Château Figeac with 99 points - names that have continuously improved in quality in recent years.
Château de Fieuzal Rouge has once again achieved a special feat. They have been working at the absolute top level for several years now. The 2023 received 95+/100 points from the Wine Advocate and is therefore almost as highly rated as some Premier Crus, which cost far more than ten times (!) as much.
The price level is generally remarkable: many wines are noticeably below the prices of the highly traded 2022 vintage and thus offer an exceptionally attractive ratio of quality and price.
We secured a selection early on. The wines are currently still in Bordeaux, but are already on their way to us.
