Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc

6 x 75cl * 14% ABV * Moulis-en-Mdoc, France

Chasse-Spleen is one of the leading estates in Moulis-en-Mdoc, and although doesnt have an official classification (by choice), it can be viewed as an honorary St-Julien for its smoothness according to Jancis Robinson. There is some debate about whether it was Lord Byron or Baudelaire who helped bequeath its rather unusual name.One theory is thatwhen Lord Byron visited the estate in 1821, he remarked `Quel remde pour chasser le spleen`, (roughly, ‘what a remedy this place is for the blues’). The other legend attributes the name to the poet Baudelaire, visiting his artist friend Odilon Redon, a neighbour of Chasse-Spleen and illustrator of his poem Spleen et Idal.

Either way, the historical estate has long held a reputation as one of the finest non-classed growths. It was founded after 1855, missing a place in Bordeaux classification system, but was awarded Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel. A title it refused, indicating its confidence in the quality and reputation of its wines. The estate is owned and run by Celine Villars Foubet and has been in her family since the 1970s. The vineyard is halfway between Margaux and Saint-Julien, with a very varied mix of gravel, clay and limestone terroir.It regularly outperforms many of the Medoc’s more renowned classed growths and the 2022 is no exception.

“The 2022 Chasse-Spleen was showing especially well, bursting with aromas of cassis and plums mingled with liquorice and pencil shavings. Medium to full-bodied, rich and fleshy, with levels of texture and mid-palate amplitude unusual at this address in recent years, this supple, charming Moulis should offer a broad drinking window.” 90-92+ points, William Kelley, RobertParker.com

“Beautifully poised and well delivered black fruits here, and this is excellent quality, unusual spices of sweet cinnamon, vanilla bean, turmeric, gourmet edging, with depth and tannic grip. Great stuff, flashes of heat, but a ton of personality, and serious architecture that promises to age well. 40% new oak barrels for ageing. Now contains part of the vines from newly-purchased Chteau Brillette, with good quality Cabernet Sauvignon from gravel terroir, in place as of this 2022 blend vintage.” 93 points, Jane Anson

“Firm and linear with medium to full body and chalky, slightly tight tannins. Hints of walnuts and dark berries at the end.” 93-94 points, James Suckling

Drinking window: 2027 – 2035

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