2022 Château Bélair-Monange, 1er Grand Cru Classé Saint-Emilion

Description

The vineyards of Bélair-Monange occupy some of the choicest plots of the appellation, in three sectors – on the limestone plateau, on terraces adjoining it, and on south-facing, steep hillsides. The Moueix family bought the château in 2008, and did not delay in making considerable investments in the vineyards. The finishing touches are now being put to the new winery, which will open its doors with the 2023 vintage. Tasting this 2022 alongside two of the Moeuix family`s top-class Pomerol estates, Hosanna and La Fleur-Pétrus, Bélair-Monange is striking for its dancing acidity, delicacy of aromatics and mineral finesse – its Saint-Emilion pedigree is very much in evidence. An assemblage of 98% Merlot with 2% Cabernet Franc, colour is ruby-purple of medium depth, aromas being outstandingly intense and alluringly scented: fresh red cherry, raspberry, cherry blossom… Palate is full, intricately structured and has wonderful concentration, wrapped in silky-smooth tannins. The length goes on and on. This shows the outstanding elegance of which Saint-Emilion is capable, being one of the greatest wines of the 2022 vintage (for drinking 2030-2048+).