Duhart Milon always shines in warmer vintages. The 2003 and 2009 are both superb, powerful examples without any obvious sign of heat – but their 2022 achieves a new level of precision and class. Given its proximity and shared technical team, it's no surprise this is somewhat Lafitesque with its regal aromatics and deep, layered core of black, mineral infused fruit. One of the most striking wines in the Medoc, Duhart Milon 2022 offers First Growth credentials at a fraction of cost – if you hanker for a cerebral, athletic style of Pauillac, this is not to be missed!
"The Grand Vin 2022 Château Duhart-Milon is 78% Cabernet Sauvignon and 22% Merlot. It brings more richness as well as classic Pauillac character in its lead pencil, graphite, tobacco, and red and black fruit-driven aromatics. With gorgeous richness, a medium to full bodied mouthfeel, and a great finish, this utterly classic, seamless, balanced Pauillac should be snatched up by readers. It's going to give the 2009 a run for its money. 94-96+/100” – Jeb Dunnuck, www.jebdunnuck.com
Read MoreAlso released today is the splendid Laroque, one of the rising stars of St Emilion. Since the appointment of wine-maker, David Suire, the wines can do no wrong. This is yet another wonderful example, which should rival the 2019 and 2020 with its powerful core of fruit, impressive structure and impeccable balance. At this price, it’s worth buying is several different formats…
“Another impressive performance from this estate, the 2022 Laroque offers up aromas of sweet berries, violets, iris and exotic spices, followed by a medium to full-bodied, layered palate with a rich core of fruit that's framed by lively acids, concluding with a taut, chalky finish. Once again, it's the result of a strict selection that sees only 45% of the production released as the grand vin. 93-95/100” – William Kelley, The Wine Advocate
Another St Emilion in the ascendancy is Berliquet. Now under the guidance of superstar duo, Audebert and Duclos, there’s much more precision and energy. It’s clearly a very different terroir from neighbouring Canon, and the wines display a more ferrous, mineral style. William Kelley is clearly a fan, awarding a whopping 94-95 points!
“The 2022 Berliquet is brilliant, bursting with aromas of plums, wild berries and lilac, followed by a medium to full-bodied, concentrated and vibrant palate that's deep and mineral. It's likely to be another of the vintage's more attractive en primeur proportions. This estate just goes from strength to strength—and that's before its new winery has been constructed! One of the most significant changes has been opting to retain higher canopies, which means that the fruiting zone of rows planted along the slope are now shaded, preserving freshness. 94-95/100” – William Kelley, The Wine Advocate