2023 Sansonnet
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Tasting notes
Ripe black cherries, crushed stone, leather, and graphite all shine from the 2023 Château Sansonnet, a classy, concentrated Saint-Emilion based on 85% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 7% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 14-16 months in 70% new barrels, with the balance in foudres and amphora. Medium-bodied on the palate, it has a layered, elegant mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and outstanding length. It's holding things pretty close to its vest at the moment, yet I love its purity, balance, and depth. Give bottles 3-4 years and enjoy over the following 15 or more. Drink 2029-2045.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Neal Martin, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2023 Sansonnet is a deep, powerful wine from the Lefévère family. Blackberry, chocolate, new leather, licorice and a kiss of sweet French oak inform a sumptuous Saint-Émilion that delivers on all counts. Extroverted and plush, Sansonnet is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This is a terrific edition.
The 2023 Sansonnet has a lively bouquet with blackberry, raspberry and wild hedgerow scents, furnished with violet and peony. Nicely focused. The palate is medium-bodied with svelte tannins, fine acidity, good backbone with a cohesive and lightly spiced finish that begs you back for more. Excellent, although served at different temperatures in two tastings, pour this below, not at room temperature.
Concentrated, showing aromas of chocolate, blackberries and a touch of asphalt. The palate is medium- to full-bodied, with succulent fruit on the fuller end of the spectrum, balanced by precise acidity and round tannins that lead to a chiseled finish. Drink or hold.