Introducing the 2018 La Gaffeliere, a Bordeaux Blend from the esteemed region of Saint Emilion in Bordeaux, France. This wine exudes elegance and finesse, showcasing the true artistry of winemaking.
In the glass, the wine reveals a deep garnet-purple hue that captivates the eye. Its enticing aromas immediately permeate the air, with notes of black cherries, flowers, and cedar taking center stage. As you delve deeper, you'll discover hints of sandalwood and stone, adding complexity and intrigue to the bouquet.
On the palate, the 2018 La Gaffeliere is full-bodied and intense, captivating your senses with its seamless integration of flavors. The wonderfully polished tannins caress your palate, creating a velvety texture that is simply irresistible. This wine demands your attention and takes you on a journey of exploration with each sip.
Renowned wine expert James Suckling awarded this vintage an impressive score of 95 points, affirming its exceptional quality. He recommends giving it time to come together and suggests enjoying it after 2025. Wine Enthusiast also recognized the prowess of this estate, awarding it a score of 97 points. They praised its powerful tannins, dense black fruits, and remarkable aging potential, suggesting it will evolve beautifully if enjoyed from 2027 onward.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate joined in the acclaim, awarding the 2018 La Gaffeliere an outstanding score of 97 points. They described its medium to deep garnet-purple color and noted its enticing aromas of stewed red and black plums, mulberries, and Morello cherries. The palate is tightly wound, delivering crunchy red and black fruits with fine-grained tannins and loads of freshness. This expert suggests allowing the wine to age for 4-5 years before indulging in its refreshing and beautifully perfumed expression.
Jeff Leve, from TheWineCellarInsider.com, rated this vintage between 93-95 points, praising its lushness, polish, and purity. He highlighted the wine's roundness, silky tannins, and enticing flavors of floral, licorice, espresso, cocoa, and red pit fruit.
Jeb Dunnuck, another respected wine critic, awarded the 2018 Château La Gaffeliere a score of 93 points. He commended its classic, mineral-laced style, elegant finesse, and perfect balance of richness and finesse.
Vinous, led by Antonio Galloni, bestowed upon this vintage an exceptional score of 99 points, declaring it one of the wines of the vintage. Galloni was captivated by its towering stature, vertical lift, and deep, resonant flavors. He praised its rich, pliant character and the vibrancy conferred by supporting minerality. The blend of 63% Merlot and 37% Cabernet Franc truly impressed, leading Galloni to describe this wine as "magnifique!"
Wine Spectator also recognized the excellence of the 2018 La Gaffeliere, awarding it a score of 94 points. They praised its expressive and pure nature, with flavors of cassis, bitter cherry, and damson plum intertwining with bright savory and chalky mineral notes. The wine gains flesh and drive as it airs, showcasing its solid and promising future. They suggest enjoying it from 2023 through 2036.
Decanter, a leading wine publication, rated this vintage with an impressive score of 96 points. They noted the estate's remarkable progress and praised the wine's powerful nature and rich creaminess. The balance between the saline lick of limestone and the brambled exuberance of St-Emilion fruit was particularly noteworthy. Decanter described this wine as a delicious, complex yet pared-back masterpiece with layers of tannin that cradle rather than crush.
The 2018 La Gaffeliere is a wine that demands attention and respect. With its exceptional scores, remarkable aging potential, and the praise of esteemed critics, this Bordeaux Blend is destined to become a legend in the world of wine.