Château Pedesclaux, Pauillac, FR, 2023

Fresh and crunchy, showing vibrant berries, currants and elegant herbs. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine-grained tannins and a tight but seamless finish. Good energy throughout. A blend of 70% cabernet sauvignon, 20% merlot and 10% cabernet franc, aged in 65% new oak. Approachable now but better from 2027.

92-94 The 2023 Pedesclaux is one of the best wines I have tasted here in some time, maybe ever. It offers a striking mix of ripe dark fruit and bright acids. My impression is that the extractions are less pushed, which really seems to emphasize vibrancy in the fruit. The 10% Cabernet Franc really lifts the aromatics, but it’s the wine's balance and energy that I admire most. Terrific.