"... extrem viel Süße in der schwarzbeerigen Nase, Cassis, Mandeln, Marzipan, große Struktur, sehr kräftige Tannine, große Frische vor allem am Gaumen, spciy, tolle Struktur, lang, lang ... " (2023)
Jane Anson: 97 Punkte
Inky plum in colour, opens with an immediate caress of supple tannins with violet, rose and peony, liquorice root, textured, rich but reserved with a tug of graphite, slate and crayon. This is a really impressive Valandraud, excellent quality, clearly decades of ageing ahead of it. Jean-Luc Thunevin owner, harvest September 15 to October 5, 100% new oak. (01/2025)
Decanter: 96 Punkte
At 15.5% there's no getting round this is one of the highest alcohols among the 2022s but it very much works with the vintage offering a heady, concentrated nose followed by powerful, yet sleek profile on the palate. Really juicy and alive, the acidity is brilliant and lifts the red berry fruit flavours with chalky tannins giving the intensity towards the finish. There are flashes of heat but there's also cooling minerality and salty touches without any overt toastiness which is so pleasant. I tasted this a little colder - cellar cold - and I think that really works in its favour. Gorgeous purity, finesse and approachability. - Georgina Hindle (01/2025)
