Sociando Mallet 2023 (750ML)

Only 60% of Sociando Mallet’s 2023 crop went into the grand vin, and the final blend includes 8% press wine. It spent 12 to 14 months in barrel, 80% of them new, and came in at a pH of 3.55. Black cherry, dark berries and violet open the nose, with licorice underneath. The palate is juicy and quick on its feet, a blueberry-toned freshness keeping the concentration in check, and the texture starts soft and silky before tightening toward a firm, saline finish with mint and clove. There is real flesh here, but it never turns heavy. Reviewers expect it to start showing its best from 2027 and to hold through 2040. It belongs beside duck confit, roast guinea fowl or a slow-cooked cassoulet.