In Bond Fine Wine. 2023 Château Petite Eglise Petite Eglise (2nd label of Eglise Clinet), Pomerol, Bordeaux, France. Second wine • Red Bordeaux in 6x75cl. Top critic score: 94/100 (JA). Drinking window: 2027–2043. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
Antonio Galloni (AG) — 92–94/100 · Vinous, 30/04/2024 · Drink 2028-2043
The 2023 La Petite Eglise is a serious, deep wine. It is one of the few second wines in Bordeaux that needs some time in bottle to be at its best. Dark-toned fruit, graphite, leather, menthol, spice and incense lend this large-scaled Pomerol a ton of distinction. A dollop of Franc (10%) adds tension and vibrancy.
Neal Martin (NM) — 90–92/100 · Vinous, 29/04/2024 · Drink 2028-2040
The 2023 La Petite Eglise comes from two plots near the village of Pomerol, augmented by the youngest vines in front of the château. It comprises 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, picked from September 9 to 14, the Franc on the last day. Matured in 82% new oak, this is initially quite backward on the nose, demanding a bit of aeration in the glass. Quite pure and floral, it only reluctantly opens…
William Kelley (WK) — 91–93/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 26/04/2024
As usual, the 2023 La Petite Eglise is a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc that checks in at 14.4% alcohol. Wafting from the glass with aromas of plums and cherries mingled with notes of dark chocolate and truffle, it's medium to full-bodied, fleshy and succulent, with a rich core of fruit, sweet tannins and good depth at the core, concluding with a broad, oak-inflected finish.