Beychevelle is a large property (bizarrely with a flock of stone penguins in the garden to the rear!) that has long been pursued by the Chinese market. With that outlet somewhat dried up, we have been lured back and encouraged by recent investment and a step up in quality. The new chai is superb and the wine coming out in 2023 is very impressive. It is most seductive on the nose, ripe currant and cassis with a swirl of raspberry, then dense, rich damson in the mouth, lovely supporting oak and a harmonious finish. Length is excellent, it is bold yet refined with the substance to go further than others. Phillippe Blanc has made a delicious wine worthy of note.