Pensées de Lafleur 2023

The 2023 Pensées de Lafleur is an especially serious rendition of a cuvée that is generally more forward and demonstrative than its stablemate Lafleur. Unfurling in the glass with deep aromas of cherries and dark berries mingled with violets, orange zest and spices, it’s medium to full-bodied, with a broad attack that segues into a fleshy, layered core of real depth and density, underpinned by rich, powdery tannins and concluding with a long, harmonious finish. It’s a blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc. (William Kelley,robertparker.com)