Château Langoa Barton, 3ème Cru Classé, St Julien,

Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2023 Langoa Barton charges out of the glass with ready-to-go notes of crushed blackberries, raspberry leaves, and blackcurrant pastilles leading to nuances of pencil shavings and clove oil. The medium-bodied palate delivers compelling energy and freshness, with soft, approachable tannins and a zippy finish. The blend is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc.

The 2023 Langoa Barton was picked from September 12 until October 2 at around 50hL/ha, with some "late" saignée for half the vat–when it has some “serious color,” according to Damien Barton. Two vats were chaptalized out of a total of 42, the highest at 15%, yielding an average alcohol of 13%. Matured in 60% new oak, it has a very perfumed bouquet with black plum, boysenberry and a touch of mint. This is notably forward and unabashed. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins, a sorbet-fresh Langoa with a bright, almost pastille-like finish that lingers in the mouth. Very seductive and vivacious, I appreciate the nascent energy here.