2023 Chateau Langoa Barton 3eme Cru Classe, Saint-Julien 1x750ml

Robert Parker 93-95

The 2023 Langoa Barton is a very accomplished wine, the family’s new winery having permitted more precise, parcel-by-parcel winemaking as well as gentler handling of the fruit to deliver a wine with all this estate’s customary intensity of flavor but more polish and refinement. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of dark berries, cassis and plums mingled with hints of pencil shavings and dried rose petals, it’s medium to full-bodied, with an inky core of fruit, vibrant acids and plenty of suave structuring tannin. This classic blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc is sure to number among the intelligent purchases of the en primeur campaign. [William Kelley, 04/26/2024]

Vinous 91-93

The 2023 Langoa Barton was picked from September 12 until October 2 at around 50hL/ha, with some “late” saignée for half the vat-when it has some serious color, according to Damien Barton. Two vats were chaptalized out of a total of 42, the highest at 15%, yielding an average alcohol of 13%. Matured in 60% new oak, it has a very perfumed bouquet with black plum, boysenberry and a touch of mint. This is notably forward and unabashed. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins, a sorbet-fresh Langoa with a bright, almost pastille-like finish that lingers in the mouth. Very seductive and vivacious, I appreciate the nascent energy here. [Neal Martin, 04/29/2024]

Anticipated maturity: 2028-2045