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An oenologist by training, Ms. Papon-Nouvel owns two tiny properties at the bottom of Saint-Émilion near Canon-La Gaffelière: Petit Gravet Aîné (2.4 ha) and Clos Saint-Julien (1.3 ha), where the vines are mainly old cabernets francs. From the vine to the cellar, she manages all the stages in the production of her wines on her own and, whatever the vintage, her talent as an instinctive winemaker gives wines of natural elegance and exemplary sweetness.
Bettane & Desseauve : 94/100
Revue du Vin de France :
Dupont (Le Point) :
Quarin : 90/100 « Sa texture est délicate dès l’entrée en bouche. Le vin se développe minutieux, très savoureux, avec de la présence, avant de s’achever long et parfumé. Beaucoup de cabernet franc infère ce comportement tout en délicatesse. Un superbe Outsider en agriculture biologique ! »
Galloni (Vinous) : 92-94/100 « Even with all of its intensity and pure power, the 2019 retains terrific aromatic brilliance. Then again, that is the magic of Cabernet Franc in this 2.4-hectare vineyard. Petit Gravet Aîné shows the ripeness of the year a bit more than its sibling Clos Saint-Julien, but it has an allure all of its own. »
Martin (Vinous) : 85-87/100 « The palate is medium-bodied with grippy tannins. A bit disjointed compared to its peers with a dry and atypically austere finish that feels green around the edges. Perplexing. »