2023 Chateau Grand Village (Chateau Lafleur) Bordeaux Superieur

“Crunchy red fruit and blackberries, dried flowers and an earthy touch. Chalky and vibrant with precise flavors on the medium- to full-bodied palate, leaning toward medium. Fine tannins add definition and structure in the finish. A blend of 91% merlot and 9% bouchet (cabernet franc). Better from 2027.” – Jacobo García Andrade Review Date: December 2025

“The 2023 Grand Village has a refined bouquet with blackberry and raspberry fruit, very harmonious and delineated, certainly less rustic than you would have found 10 years ago. The palate is medium-bodied with a crisp line of acidity, quite sapid in the mouth with a slightly chalky texture toward the finish. This is a delightful Grand Village that should give at least 10 years' drinking pleasure. Drinking Window: 2026 – 2036” – Neal Martin Review Date: February 2026

“Aromas of cassis, blueberries, dark wild berries and flowers introduce the 2023 Grand Village, a medium to full-bodied, layered and fleshy wine with a deep core of fruit that's framed by powdery tannins, concluding with a long, saline finish. As readers may remember, Grand Village is one of the best values in Bordeaux, and this year, it exceeds expectations. It's one of the sleepers of the vintage. This is a blend of 91% Merlot (picked between the 11th and 14th of September) and 9% Cabernet Franc (picked on the 20th of September). Drink Date: 2025 - 2045 As noted in my article published in the End of November 2023 issue, this estate, the cradle of the Guinaudeau family in Bordeaux, thrives under the expertise of one of Bordeaux’s finest winemakers, Baptiste Guinaudeau. Precise agronomy and meticulous winemaking techniques were essential in creating some of the most delicately crafted wines the estate has ever produced. In 2023, the wines featured lively, exquisite bouquets and a refined tannic depth and structure comparable to many of the region's Grands Crus Classés. As always, this estate remains a standout choice.” – Yohan Castaing Review Date: April 2024