Since the beginning of the week, the Bordeaux Primeurs 2023 have been released. Over three weeks, the team at La Tulipe Rouge has tasted a considerable number of wines. More than 600 Primeur samples. Under excellent conditions. One thing is certain: 2023 has yielded some truly outstanding Bordeaux, in a brilliant style, contrary to the misconceptions still prevailing among amateur circles and, worse, among certain professionals who are too lazy to update their perspective on the region.
Photo credit Pierre Planchenault
You are not obliged to believe us. Let's just say that you would be wise to do so!
Firstly, we remind you that the ratings from La Tulipe Rouge are entirely impartial, as we do not sell any advertising products (exhibition space, advertisements, awards, etc.) to the châteaux, and, more generally, we prohibit any commercial relationship with the châteaux whose wines we review.
Secondly: before being professionals, we are passionate enthusiasts who buy, share, and enjoy our bottles! Does that seem normal to you? If only you knew... All of this is to say that when we unequivocally state that the Bordeaux 2023s are gems, it's because we will be among the very first buyers in the Primeurs!
Lastly, third and final point, we know a thing or two about wines... We've even produced a bit, worked in sensory analysis, and so forth. In other words, we won't try to sell you the idea of a great vintage every year. Besides, just take a look at our 100-point ratings. They are precise and binding for us (and for the châteaux too...). This is important because the Primeurs have somewhat, albeit unintentionally, weakened the impact of ratings by forcing journalists and critics to taste like producers, that is to say, tasting wines still in the barrel... Consequently, nobody takes risks; we provide a trend that often ends up as a truism like "95-98" to say "it could be excellent, but not certain". When it comes to purchase advice, we have seen better! As for the fan club version: "everyone at 95, it's a very good vintage", it's hard to be less clear!
You will have understood that we want to convince you because we truly loved this vintage. We are certain that you will not regret it. To that end, we have prepared a summary of the vintage and a list of rated wines, awaiting more detailed comments and other supplementary articles. Happy reading.
Olivier Borneuf
