Villemaurine 2020 (750ML)

96 WI / 93-95 WCI / 94 VM / 94 JD / 93 DE / 93 JS / 93 FS / 16+ JR

#4 Wine Independent Top 10 QPR Collector Wines under $50 2023

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2020 Villemaurine is a little shy and reticent to begin, soon unfurling to reveal notes of pencil shavings, Chinese five spice, and fallen leaves, followed by a core of Morello cherries, plum preserves, and lilacs. The densely laden, full-bodied palate is packed with black fruit and floral layers, framed by ripe, rounded tannins, finishing long and perfumed. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Independent

The 2020 Villemaurine has a lovely bouquet with fine delineation and terroir expression, red and black fruit, crushed stone and light orange pith aromas. A second bottle exudes more of the Cabernet Franc and imparts a Medocian tincture. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, fleshy with a velvety texture, and great depth. It conveys wonderful detail on the finish. Excellent. - Neal Martin, Vinous Media

The 2020 Château Villemaurine comes from an incredible terroir located just beside the village of Saint-Emilion and is 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc raised in 80% new French oak. Its dense purple hue is followed by a beautiful perfume of black raspberries, cherries, spice box, and smoked tobacco. This carries to a medium to full-bodied Saint-Emilion with perfectly integrated oak, ripe tannins, and the pure, elegant, yet structured style of the vintage. It's a beautiful wine to enjoy over the coming 15-20 years. This property was purchased by the Lefévère family (of Château Sansonnet, Soutard Cadet, and Moulin du Cadet) in 2021, with Marie-Benedicte Lefévère putting together the blend for the 2020. Given the quality of the dirt here, this is an estate to watch. - Jeb Dunnuck

Juicy and powerful with a nice saline limestone tug. A little subdued right now, this is a wine that needs time but has clear quality and plenty of depth through the palate. New owners as of 2021, the Lefevre family from Château Sansonnet taking over from Justin Onclin, who has been in place here since 2007. - Jane Anson, Decanter

This is perfumed with blue fruit, crushed violets, toasted spices and grilled herbs. Hints of walnut, too. Medium- to full-bodied with fine, creamy tannins and a polished texture. Shows a crunchiness and juiciness to the dark-fruited palate. Lingering finish. Try after 2025. -JamesSuckling.com