Domaine Haut Ventenac L’Audacieux 2023, Bordeaux, France, 92 points- $39. 95 per bottle- (ships 12x 750ml)
Domaine Haut Ventenac L’Audacieux 2023, Bordeaux, France, 92 points- $39. 95 per bottle- (ships 12x 750ml)
Domaine Haut Ventenac L’Audacieux 2023
Francs Côtes de Bordeaux, France | 92 Points, James Suckling
This is the serious one from Domaine Haut Ventenac. L’Audacieux, meaning “The Bold One,” is made from the estate’s oldest vines, averaging 60 years, with yields of just 30 hl/ha.
Merlot leads the blend, joined by Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, with 20 months in oak bringing depth and polish. Blackcurrant, blackberry and raspberry are layered with violet, tobacco and subtle spice. It’s concentrated and full-bodied, but the tannins are supple and beautifully integrated, so there’s no heaviness or harshness.
80% Merlot | 10% Cabernet Sauvignon | 10% Cabernet Franc
92 Points – James Suckling
“Olives, dried herbs and blackcurrants on the nose. It’s creamy and full-bodied with polished, ripe tannins. Lovely texture. Compact finish.”
Why we brought it in: Old vines, tiny yields and serious winemaking, but it still feels generous and approachable. This is a Bordeaux with the depth to cellar for 10 to 15 years, but you certainly don’t have to wait.
About the Winery
Domaine Haut Ventenac is an independently run Right Bank estate led by Rémi Bucherie. The 13 hectare property reflects a modern vision of Bordeaux, combining serious quality with clarity and strong identity. Bordeaux is often associated with tradition, but rarely with bold branding and modern storytelling. At Domaine Haut Ventenac, we believe Bordeaux can and should offer both.
The vineyards span Francs and Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux, two neighbouring appellations east of Saint Émilion. Both share clay limestone soils and slightly higher elevations that preserve freshness and structure while allowing full ripeness of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Francs offers terroir driven value, while Castillon’s limestone plateaus and iron rich clays bring added depth and ageing potential.
Quisque iaculis facilisis lacinia. Mauris euismod pellentesque tellus sit amet mollis.