Margaux, Fifth Growth.
70% Cabernet Sauvignon; 15% Merlot; 11% Cabernet Franc; 4% Petit Verdot.
Château du Tertre is a prestigious wine estate located in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, with a history dating back to the 12th century. Spanning 52 hectares of vineyards, the estate is renowned for its exceptional terroir characterized by deep gravelly soils that are ideal for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Known for its commitment to traditional winemaking practices combined with modern innovations, Château du Tertre produces wines that embody elegance, complexity, and a remarkable ability to age gracefully.
James Suckling: 95-96/100
The lead pencil, blackberries and blackcurrants are very intense on both the nose and palate. Medium-bodied with a solid core of fruit and tannins and a creamy, refined texture that turns to a medium finish. 70% cabernet sauvignon, 15% merlot, 11% cabernet franc and 4% petit verdot.
William Kelley - Wine Advocate: 92-94/100
As this estate's extensive restructuring begins to come to fruition, the 2023 du Tertre contains fully 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, as replanted parcels begin to be included in the grand vin, complemented by 15% Cabernet Franc and the rest Merlot. Offering up aromas of dark berries, licorice, lilac and mint, it's medium to full-bodied, layered and fleshy, with a notably concentrated, serious core by this estate's typically charming standards, revealing sweet structuring tannins and a succulent, seamless profile. In short, du Tertre's renaissance continues.
Jane Anson: 93/100
Enjoyably velvety and silky fresh aromatics, this is Cabernet dominant in character, meaning slim and savoury, and hard to argue with. Has plenty of grip and power as it opens, with cassis bud, blackberry and crayon, together with gentle crushed mint leaf and smoked earth. 60% new oak for ageing, Helfich family new owners since 2021, Cynthia Capelaere estate director, Romain Beurienne technical director, continuing to work biodynamically as they have since 2008. Blend completed early during October, 60% new oak for ageing. The Cabernet Franc vines here are more than 60 years old, and it's an estate that is getting a lot of love and investment since the new owners arrived.
Antonio Galloni - Vinous: 91-93/100
The 2023 du Tertre is deep, powerful and resonant right out of the gate. Dark-toned fruit, chocolate, lavender, mocha and dried herbs are broadly sketched. This heady, layered Margaux is certainly not shy. All it could use is a bit more polish in its contours.