92-95

Antonio Galloni

Vinous

The 2023 Clos de Sarpe is a potent Saint-Émilion. There's plenty of intensity but less of the overt opulence of a few years ago. Black cherry, plum, licorice, leather, dried herbs and incense struggle to emerge from a wall of searing tannins. Blackberry jam, crème de cassis, lavender and mocha extend the finish. The acidity, as measured by pH, is more like that of a white wine. I am very curious to see where this goes. Tasted two times. 04/2024

92-94

Neal Martin

Vinous

The 2023 Clos de Sarpe continues a fine run of form. This is composed and refined, lovely, slightly earthy red fruit blossoming in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, very pure and refined, with a finish that could teach a few of its fellow Saint-Émilion Grand Crus a thing or two about elegance and panache. Bravo. 04/2024

94-96

Jeb Dunnuck

Jeb Dunnuck

Coming from tiny yields of 35 hectoliters per hectare (and the 100th vintage for the Beyney Family), the 2023 Château Clos De Sarpe is 78% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot raised in 70% new Burgundy barrels. A rich, concentrated wine, it boasts a deep purple hue and delivers powerful aromatics of cassis, graphite, crushed stone, and spicy wood, medium to full-bodied richness, a deep, layered mouthfeel, and beautiful yet building tannins. It picks up more floral and spicy nuances with air and is a beautiful, absolutely classic wine from this château that readers will love. The 2023 hit 14.5% alcohol with an incredibly low pH of 3.35. It’s going to have 50+ years of life. 05/2024

93-94

James Suckling

James Suckling

Very polished and refined, with succulent fruit and a creamy texture. Medium body. Bright finish. From organically grown grapes. 04/2024