2023 La Gaffeliere
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Tasting notes
This is intense and dark, with a crème de cassis note on the nose, a firm and rich structure with slightly austere and chalky tannins. It’s extracted and dense but the elements are all in balance, with its punch of bramble and plum fruit. Aged in 50% new oak and 2% amphora, with 14% alcohol. Blend: 58% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Neal Martin, Vinous
More reviews and scores
From one of the finest estates in Saint-Emilion, the 2023 Château La Gaffelière checks in as 58% Merlot and 42% Cabernet Franc from clay-limestone soils that spent 21 months in 50% new French oak (including 12% 500-liter barrels) with 2% in amphora. Ripe red and black fruits, leafy, smoky tobacco, graphite, crushed stone, and hints of chocolate all emerge from this brilliant 2023, and it's concentrated and medium-bodied on the palate, with a pure, focused, layered mouthfeel, ultra-fine tannins, integrated acidity, and a great finish. Don't miss it. Drink 2029-2055.
The 2023 La Gaffelière is gorgeous. Silky, aromatic and nuanced, the 2023 is terrific. It lacks some of the explosive energy of some recent vintages, but that may also reflect the significant presence of Cabernet Franc in the blend. Dark fruit, blood orange, mint and pomegranate are all beautifully delineated. This is a vintage that emphasizes finesse over power. I can't wait to see how it ages.
The 2023 La Gaffelière was deeply impressive out of barrel. Now in bottle, it has a sublime bouquet with precise and focused brambly red fruit, undergirded by fine mineralité and tension. The oak is seamlessly integrated. The palate is medium-bodied and silky smooth. Perfectly pitched acidity, this has a surfeit of nascent energy and a brightness on the finish that sets it apart from many. Gifted.
About the producer
Bordering both Ausone and Pavie, this property has been owned by the De Malet Roquefort line for over 300 years – making them the oldest winegrowing family in Saint-Emilion.