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The 2023 Ripeau is bold, powerful and explosive in the glass. Plush black cherry/plum fruit, mocha, new leather, licorice, incense and dried herbs. Broad and ample, with gorgeous textural richness and presence, Ripeau has a lot to offer. The Cabernets make themselves heard, that is for sure.
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Average Score
Neal Martin, Vinous
Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux
More reviews and scores
The 2023 Ripeau has an elegant bouquet with raspberry and wild strawberry fruit, incense and light peony scents in the background. Deft use of oak here. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins, light acidity, old school in some ways with a soft finish that just drifts away. Better than its showing from barrel but not what I would label "exciting."
The 2023 Château Ripeau comes from the upper plateau, not far from Figeac and Cheval Blanc, and is based on 65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, aging in new barrels. Its deep purple hue is followed by a beautiful nose of cassis, ripe red plums, spring flowers, and beautifully integrated oak. With medium to full-bodied richness, it has the juicy, elegant style of the vintage and brings solid mid-palate depth, as well as terrific overall balance. This lively, fresher, floral 2023 will benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and evolve gracefully.
Licorice, orange rind, smoke, chocolate, and cherries show in the nose, and on the lush, round, deep, palate. The wine is polished, fruity, and already delicious . The wine blends 65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon.