critic reviews
Deep ruby colour, grilled sandalwood and incense, cocoa bean and campfire, blackberry and cassis, high extraction, Léa Zuger come back five years ago from Canada to take over at the estate from her father Jean-Luc Zuger. Michel Rolland consultant. 60% new oak, harvest September 19 though to October 10, 39hl/h yield, 26.8ha in production right now because just pulled out their Cabernet Franc to replant with Cabernet Sauvignon.
The 2023 Malescot Saint-Exupéry is quite discreet on the nose, light brambly black fruit commingling with cedar and forest floor. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins. Well-balanced and harmonious, there is a patina of oak to be assimilated on the finish, but it has commendable elegance with a dash of black pepper on the aftertaste. Discreet, but classy.
The 2023 Malescot St. Exupery is medium to deep garnet-purple in color. It offers up classic scents of blackcurrants, kirsch, and pencil shavings followed by nuances of crushed rocks and cardamom. The medium-bodied palate delivers a firm frame of grainy tannins and well-knit freshness to support the taut black fruit, finishing long with a minerally lift.
One of the most suave, classy vintages from this estate in some years, the 2023 Malescot St. Exupery is a blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. Wafting from the glass with aromas of cherries, berries, licorice and pencil shavings, it's medium to full-bodied, fleshy and succulent, with good depth at the core, supple tannins and a harmonious, integrated profile. Part of the blend is maturing in foudre.