Belair Monange 2023 (750ML)

94-96 Points, William Kelley, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2023 Belair Monange is the first vintage from this newly created property that incorporates a balance of fruit from the plateau and fruit from the hillsides, as restructured and replanted parcels are returning to production. Wafting from the glass with attractive aromas of raspberries, violets and kirsch mingled with hints of incense, licorice and rose petals, it's medium to full-bodied, fleshy and layered, with a deep and textural core of fruit, lively acids and powdery tannins, retaining a cool, ethereal profile that foregrounds its limestone origins." 04/24

94-96 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2023 Bélair-Monange is terrific. I find it much more reserved than in most recent years, in a very good way. Bright acids and beams of tannin shape this super-classic Saint-Émilion. It’s a style I like very much. Hints of dark-toned fruit, leather, dried herbs and spice build into the potent, layered finish. This is impeccably done. It will be interesting to see what Edouard Moueix coaxes from Bélair-Monange now that he has a brand-new cellar. Will the wines be extroverted, as they were in the early going, or more reserved, like the 2023?" 04/24

95 Points, Neal Martin, Vinous: "The 2023 Bélair-Monange is another addition to the canon of great wines in recent years from this estate. Now in bottle, it has a fragrant and generous bouquet, beautifully defined, a mélange of red and black fruit, forest floor, shavings of black truffle and light tobacco scents. It is actually a bit Pomerol in style. The palate is medium-bodied with chiseled tannins matched by a perfect line of acidity. Silky smooth in texture that disguises the backbone of this Saint-Émilion, it forms a very complete wine that will surely age with style. Highly recommended." 02/26

97 Points, James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com: "A bright and finely crafted red with blackberry, blueberry, limestone, violet and crushed stone aromas. It’s medium-bodied with very silky tannins and a salty and minerally aftertaste that’s refined and fascinating. A hint of flowers at the end. This shows the true character of the diverse vineyards of this estate. 98% merlot and 2% cabernet franc. Still tight. Give it two or three years. Best after 2028." 12/25