The 2022 Château L'If comes from eight hectares of vines, mostly located on the upper plates near Troplong Mondot. Based on 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc raised in 50% new oak, its deep ruby/purple hue is followed by a pure, incredibly elegant wine that has a core of black raspberry fruit as well as sappy flowers, chalky minerality, and hints of forest floor. Playing in the medium-bodied, silky, elegant end of the spectrum, it brings beautiful purity, ultra-fine tannins, and a great finish. The level of purity, finesse, and minerality here is something. Give bottles 3-5 years and enjoy over the following two decades.

Aromas of sweet cherries, berries and plums mingled with hints of licorice and a discreet framing of toasty oak introduce the 2022 L'If, a medium to full-bodied, suave and polished wine that's lively, seamless and refined, concluding with a chalky, mineral finish. This is one of the best wines from this estate to date.