Chateau Duhart-Milon 2023 (pre-order)

Château Duhart-Milon is a rare estate because it is one of the few properties in Pauillac without an actual château. Instead, it hosts vat rooms, barrel storage, and, of course, the stars of the show – the vines. The vineyards are planted with 76 hectares of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot; the vines are about 30 years old on average. Like its sister estate, Lafite, the same cooperage makes the barrels on the property. Charles Chevalier is the director of winemaking, and each plot at Château Duhart-Milon is isolated and judged separately based on quality. The grapes are harvested and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. The wines of Château Duhart-Milon are powerful, like many Pauillacs. They require a bit of time for their aromas to unfold, and younger vintages can be decanted if need be.

Tasting Notes
”A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon (picked late, between September 25 and October 3) and 20% Merlot, the 2023 Duhart-Milon has turned out beautifully, unfurling in the glass with aromas of cassis, cherries and dark berries mingled with hints of mint, cedar and spice box. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and layered, it’s deep and concentrated, with an ample core of cool but ripe fruit, sweet tannins and a long, penetrating finish.