Silex 2022 and 2023, Lalande de Pomerol

The name refers to flint, a silica rich stone that has launched a thousand arguments among otherwise rational adults standing around barrels using geological vocabulary with total sincerity. Bordeaux remains gloriously committed to this tradition.

Cabernet Franc rarely receives top billing on the Right Bank. In most of Pomerol and Lalande de Pomerol, it plays a supporting role to Merlot, contributing freshness, structure, and aromatic lift rather than taking center stage. That is precisely what makes wines like Silex interesting. These bottlings place Cabernet Franc at the front of the conversation instead of quietly in the background.

I tasted the 2022 and 2023 vintages at the property, presented in large format. The richer concentration of 2022 contrasts with the fresher, more tension driven profile of 2023, while the larger format should slow the evolution and preserve detail over time.