Château La Tour Martillac, Cru Classé de Graves,

Grilled oak, deep ruby colour, touch of rose petals on the nose, more floral than many in the appellation, gives a pretty feel to the opening beats. This is on the fresher side of the vintage but still with ripe fruits, and a cushion of air that runs through the palate, good quality, elegant, medium term drinking, should be good to go within four or five years, just allow the architecture to soften. 40% new oak, 33hl/ha yield.

The 2023 Latour-Martillac has a more straightforward, less nuanced bouquet than some of its peers at the moment. It does not quite engage the senses as I would have hoped. The palate is medium-bodied with quite assertive tannins matched by a crisp acidity thread, though again, the finish feels a little hard and muscular. I will be prudent with my score for now.