In Bond Fine Wine. 2023 Les Cruzelles, Lalande de Pomerol, Bordeaux, France. Red Bordeaux in 6x75cl. Top critic score: 95/100 (AG). Drinking window: 2028–2045. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Made by the talented Durantou family. La Chenade & Les Cruzelles are located in the Lalande de Pomerol appellation, a stone's throw from Eglise Clinet across the border in Pomerol. Les Cruzelles, from gravel and clay-rich soils, is more structured and ageworthy than La Chenade, which is juicy & expressive.
Antonio Galloni (AG) — 91–94/100 · Vinous, 30/04/2024 · Drink 2028-2043
The 2023 Les Cruzelles is a potent, deep wine. The 2023 has all the Cabernet Francs from the Lalande-de-Pomerol estate blended with Merlots that were particularly abundant. Pretty floral and savory notes from the Franc give this mid-weight, dynamic, vibrant Lalande-de-Pomerol tons of charm. I especially admire its energy. Readers will want to give this a few years in bottle.
Neal Martin (NM) — 91–93/100 · Vinous, 29/04/2024 · Drink 2029-2045
The 2023 Les Cruzelles is the same blend as last year. Though it includes fruit that went into La Chenade in 2022, the volume of Merlot was higher, so it remains 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. When Noemie Durantou tasted through the tanks, she found it easy to pick out the wines from Les Cruzelles. Harvested between September 11 and 18 and matured in 52% new oak, this has a delineated and foc…
William Kelley (WK) — 90–92/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 26/04/2024
The 2023 Les Cruzelles initially presents a slightly oaky aroma, which transitions to a more floral essence upon aeration. Then it evokes aromas of dark wild berries, spices and mulberries. Medium-bodied, round and charming, it has velvety tannins and a dense, elegant mid-palate, with a long, rich and fruity finish. It's a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc matured in 55% new oak. - Taste…