2020 Baron Philippe de Rothschild Domaine de Baronarques
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Tasting notes
The red from this estate is also more than notable. Based on Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, the deep ruby/plum color of the 2020 Limoux is followed by classic Bordeaux-like aromatics of ripe darker cherries, smoked tobacco, damp earth, and cedar pencil, with some background chocolaty oak nicely integrated. Reminding me of a Pomerol from a ripe vintage, it holds onto rock-solid purity of fruit, has a seamless mouthfeel, ripe, polished tannins, and a great finish. This head-turning red from the south of France is one of those beauties that will shock you in a blind tasting. It should keep for at least a decade.
Critic scores
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Lots of blackberries, dark chocolate, stone, and hazelnut. Lots of purple fruits. Full-bodied with polished tannins and a smoky, meaty and fruity finish. Very solid. Merlot, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon, syrah and malbec. Drink after 2025.
Full bottle a naughty 1,539 g. A Baron Philippe de Rothschild barrel-fermented Chardonnay from the hills of the south-western Languedoc. Offered on the Place de Bordeaux in September 2022. One of the more surprising choices – the Rothschild connection apart. A fairly rich nose suggests some spicy oak but on the palate the acidity of the elevated vineyards shines through. This is still really quite youthful and has clearly been made with great care. I think it will come into its own halfway through 2023 with any luck. (JR)