What sets the 2023 vintage apart among Pomerol wines is its balance. Although the alcohol content is about 1 degree lower than in 2022, the wine's strong natural acidity and low pH give it a fresher impression than one might expect given its concentration. The mildew and two heat waves toward the end of the season caused the Merlot grapes to produce less volume, resulting in a reduced yield. This partly explains why the fruit from this region has a concentrated character rather than a blurred one. Furthermore, relatively dry weather persisted in Pomerol through September, with lower precipitation , however the Merlot harvest had already concluded.
This wine requires aging. It will be at its best when enjoyed between 2030 and 2055.
Robert Parker (95)
The 2023 La Fleur-Pétrus is very attractive, unfurling in the glass with aromas of dark berries, sweet cherries and plums mingled with hints of incense and spices, discreetly framed by new oak. Medium to full-bodied, velvety and layered, it's deep and textural, its rich core of fruit framed by plenty of sweet, powdery tannin.
James Suckling (98)
Very tight for this chateau, with blackberry, chocolate and black-cherry character, as well as a hint of smoky oak. Full and very poised with focus and beauty. 96.5% merlot, 3% cabernet franc and 0.5% cabernet sauvignon.
Vinous (93)
The 2023 La Fleur-Pétrus is fabulous. Increasingly, I find it one the most complete Pomerols in the Moueix range. Perhaps, that’s because it comes from numerous parcels throughout the appellation and is therefore a wine that greatly benefits from blending. Bright acids and floral top notes add lift to a core of red-toned fruit. Hints of cedar, sweet pipe tobacco, mint and orange peel linger on the beautifully persistent finish.
Jeb Dunnuck (96)
94-97 The 2023 Château La Fleur-Pétrus comes from roughly 19 hectares of deeper, gravelly, clay soils located on the upper plateau of Pomerol. Almost all Merlot (there's 3% Cabernet Franc and 0.5% Petit Verdot), its ruby/purple hue is followed by a medium to full-bodied, round, concentrated Pomerol that has the vintage’s pure red and black fruits as well as some spicy, floral nuances. It's impeccably balanced and has ripe, polished, yet building tannins and a great finish. It has the château's overall elegant, silky style front and center yet this brings ample depth and richness.
