Emphatic Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Elegance

Appellation: Saint-Émilion Grand Cru

Vintage: 2023

Grape Varieties: 75% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon

Alcohol: 13% ABV

Winemaking: Matured in 60% new oak and 40% older barrels

Serving Temperature: 19°C

Château Palais Cardinal 2023 is a wonderfully elegant Saint-Émilion Grand Cru with a distinctly traditional “claret” personality. The first impression is of beautifully integrated fruit and oak without either sticking out. A sense of balance is clear. Mulberry and blackberry mingle with liquorice, tar and earthy mineral notes of slate and wet soil. Then come the more unexpected suggestions of freshly baked bread, fig jam and warm fruit tarts. It’s a remarkably varied bouquet, perfumed and richly detailed without losing its essential Bordeaux character.

The palate sits at the full end of medium-bodied, delivering good power without tipping into heaviness. Fine but firm tannins give the wine a confident backbone, while the fruit spreads generously across the mouth. There’s a seamless relationship between richness, structure and the influence of its oak maturation. The finish is long and persistent.

Approachable now, with plenty of development ahead through 2035. Excellent with roast lamb, beef Wellington or grilled portobello mushrooms. Proper, characterful Saint-Émilion with substance, individuality and a very satisfying finish.

Post arrival price will be $71.95