Château Bel-Air Jean & Gabriel 2022 en Primeur

Lovely fragrance on the nose, so scented and perfumed, really expressive and open on the nose. Juicy and supple, gorgeous mouthwatering acidity with quite a compact palate giving a push-pull of freshness and texture. The tannins are at the fore but nicely fill the mouth with fleshy black and red fruit - filling but not harsh. Lots of liquorice and spiced elements but all well integrated. Has a sense of style and polish with plenty of flavour and long length - really sustains interest and lasts and lasts. Will be delicious. Simon and Loic from Derenoncourt. Added two more small plots of 1.5ha so they now have 6.5ha. Soil is the same, only clay, with veins of blue clay especially where the old Merlots are. Average age of vines is 45. Yield of 30hl/ha. Harvest 19 and 20 September for Merlot and Cabernet Franc 23 September. Ageing 16 months, one third new oak in 500l barrels, one third one year old barrels (part 500l, 225l), the rest two year old barrels 225l. 

Very beautiful aromas with plums and berries, and fine, creamy tannins. Medium body. Savory finish. Very well done.

A blend of 50% Merlot and 50% Cabernet Franc, the 2022 Cuvée Jean & Gabriel is a cuvée crafted with grapes from old vines at this 21-hectare estate. It reveals aromas of cassis, blackberry and spices. The wine is medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a dense, enveloping mouthfeel and a penetrating, licorice-inflected finish. A remarkable success.