2024 Ch Bellevue Grand Cru Classé, St-Émilion

DUE OCT/NOV 2027

Plenty of pure fruit, plums, white pepper and tobacco. Medium- to full-bodied with juicy fruit and chewy tannins. Fresh finish. Wet earth and spices at the end. Pure merlot.

93-94 points jamessuckling.com

Gorgeous chalky tannins, red cherry and cherry pit, raspberry and blueberry fruits, always a naturally steely and saline finish to Bellevue, reflecting its limestone-dominant soils, gentle spice notes, and a kiss of oak. This is a physical wine, with a sensation of pumice and slate, and a sappy and sinewy finish that reflects the 10% whole bunch ferment. Frederic Massie of Derenoncourt Consultants, 35hl/h yield, harvest was October 3 to 6. 3ha estate, Sophie and Axel Pradel de Laxaux family sole owners since 2022, after a decade or more in partnership with the de Boüard family of Angélus.

93 points janeanson.com

All Merlot that saw a touch of stems and aging in 30% new barrels, 20% in new foudre, and the balance in once-used barrels, the 2024 Château Bellevue reveals ripe darker berries, juicy cassis, graphite, and floral notes. It's a ripe, round, layered Saint-Émilion that has sweet tannins, a plump mouthfeel, and outstanding length.

90-92 points jebdunnuck.com