critic reviews
The 2025 La Gaffelière undergoes malo in barrel and matures in 50% new oak barrels and the remainder in one-year oak, 12% in demi-muids and 4% amphorae. It continues a strong run of form for this rejuvenated Saint-Émilion, with quite ebullient raspberry and wild strawberry scents, a dash of black pepper and brown spices, the Cabernet Franc shaping the aromatics and giving it a Pomerol-like personality. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, impressive weight, quite peppery and tensile; this maintains density and grip through to the long finish. This is a great wine that has great personality and charm.
The 2025 La Gaffelière reveals an open, expressive bouquet of cassis, with a vivid fruit profile that becomes more floral with aeration. Medium- to full-bodied, it's more reserved on the palate, built around a firm, limestone-inflected structure, with tannins that show a touch of dryness at this stage. The contrast between aromatic generosity and structural restraint will likely resolve with élevage.