2023 Haut Bages Monpelou
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Tasting notes
The 2023 Haut-Bages Monpelou shows the darker side of Pauillac. Blackberry, gravel, pencil shavings, menthol, licorice, plum and chocolate fill out the wine's broad-shouldered frame. I would cellar this for at least a few years, as the tannins are pretty imposing, even if they are impeccably integrated. This bold, punchy Pauillac has a lot to offer in its immediate, if somewhat bombastic, personality.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Neal Martin, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2023 Haut-Bages Monpelou, which, FYI, was formerly part of Duhart-Milon, had a clean and fresh bouquet with blackberry and wild strawberry fruit, quite pastille-like with pressed violet scents emerging with time. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, grainy in texture, black plum and allspice notes that dovetail into quite a peppery finish whilst retaining Pauillac DNA. Given its price, this comes recommended.
Savory red fruits show as soon as you begin swirling this medium-bodied, classical-styled, forward, round, lighter-styled Pauillac, with a bright, spicy endnote. Give it a year or two of aging, and enjoy it for the next 12 years or more.
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2023 Haut-Bages Monpelou features notes of crushed blackberries, wild strawberries, and fragrant soil with touches of lavender and dried Provence herbs. The medium-bodied palate is chewy and refreshing, with subtle savory flavors and a succinct finish. The blend is 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, and 2% Cabernet Franc.