93-95

Antonio Galloni

Vinous

The 2023 Alter Ego is plump, juicy and super-expressive. Soft, silky tannins enshroud a core of plum, red cherry, spice, menthol and mocha. All the elements are so nicely balanced. A burst of red-toned fruit and spice lingers on a finish lifted by bright acids. This is such a sensual Alter Ego. 04/2024

92-94

Neal Martin

Vinous

The 2023 Alter Ego represents one-third of the crop, coming exclusively from gravel soil and picked at 32hL/ha. It displays a very deep purple hue. The bouquet is notably opulent, with the Merlot very expressive and shaping the aromatics at the moment. Hints of cassis and violets lurk beneath, perhaps needing a little more delineation. The palate is actually cut from a slightly different cloth, more restrained and a touch spicier than expected. Graphite and tobacco emerge toward the finish, as if the reins have been passed over to the Cabernet component. This will be fascinating to revisit in bottle—I would just like to see more aromatic composure. 04/2024

92-94

William Kelley

Robert Parker/Wine Advocate

Waiting from the glass with pure aromas of cherries, berries, plums and potpourri, the 2023 Alter Ego de Palmer is medium to full-bodied, bright and vibrant, with a vigorous core of fruit framed by supple tannins. It's a blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot. 04/2024

92-94

Jeb Dunnuck

Jeb Dunnuck

Composing one-third of the production, the 2023 Alter Ego De Palmer is based on 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot. It's an inky hued second wine that has a round, medium to full-bodied, ripe, downright sexy profile as well as ample red and blue fruits, some violet and graphite notes, ripe tannins, and a great finish. I'd be thrilled to drink this gorgeous 2023 any time over the coming 15-20 years. While I don't think 2023 is the best vintage for the second wines, this is brilliant. 05/2024

94

Jean-Marc Quarin

Jean-Marc Quarin

Couleur noire. Nez intense, au fruité mûr et subtil, évoluant crémeux et vanillé dans le verre. La pulpe d'entrée de bouche est enthousiasmante. Le vin fond, dense et même puissant, sur une saveur de fruits noirs, avec beaucoup de goût. Jolie volupté générale. Bonne longueur incrachable. Assemblage : 53 % cabernet sauvignon, 43 % merlot, 4 % petit verdot. 04/2024

95-96

James Suckling

James Suckling

This is dense and velvety with a creamy texture. Blackberry, blueberry and stone aromas and flavors. Layered. Very primary and focused. 53% cabernet sauvignon, 43% merlot and 4% petit verdot. 04/2024