Tertre (Margaux) 2023

Enjoyably velvety and silky fresh aromatics, this is Cabernet dominant in character, meaning slim and savoury, and hard to argue with. Has plenty of grip and power as it opens, with cassis bud, blackberry and crayon, together with gentle crushed mint leaf and smoked earth. 60% new oak for ageing, Helfich family new owners since 2021, Cynthia Capelaere estate director, Romain Beurienne technical director, continuing to work biodynamically as they have since 2008. Blend completed early during October, 60% new oak for ageing. The Cabernet Franc vines here are more than 60 years old, and it's an estate that is getting a lot of love and investment since the new owners arrived.

Score: 93 Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux Maturity: 2029-2044 Date: 02 May 2024

As this estate's extensive restructuring begins to come to fruition, the 2023 du Tertre contains fully 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, as replanted parcels begin to be included in the grand vin, complemented by 15% Cabernet Franc and the rest Merlot. Offering up aromas of dark berries, licorice, lilac and mint, it's medium to full-bodied, layered and fleshy, with a notably concentrated, serious core by this estate's typically charming standards, revealing sweet structuring tannins and a succulent, seamless profile. In short, du Tertre's renaissance continues.

Score: 92 - 94 William Kelley, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Date: 26 April 2024