95pts Vinous

The 2021 Sansonnet is once again a stand out. Blackberry jam, crème de cassis, chocolate, new leather, licorice and espresso give this large-scaled Saint-Émilion tons of depth. As always, Sansonnet is an extrovert, but in 2021 it benefits from a kick of acidity that balances things out nicely. It was impressive both times I tasted it.

94pts James Suckling

Excellent freshness and depth here with ripe but very vibrant berries. Spices, cigar box, black chocolate and incense, too. Quite juicy and bright on the medium- to full-bodied palate. Tannins are fresh and polished. Long and expressive finish. There is a “modern” touch here that gives a sense of restrained plushness to the vibrancy. Better from 2024.

93pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

From a vineyard opposite Trottevieille, the 2021 Sansonnet opens in the glass with aromas of berries, plums, licorice and burning embers. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and rather muscular, with good depth at the core, tangy acids and powdery tannins that assert themselves on the finish, it's 91% Merlot, the balance Cabernet Franc.

92pts Decanter

Succulent and supple, this is precise and stands out. The fruit has a pristine, almost clean quality to it, lightly framed but good layers of red berry fruit, cooling touches of mocha and cassis as well as crushed stone minerality. A nice presentation of the vintage and terroir - all well worked and well presented. It's not so round but has a deliciously delicate body giving depth of flavour and lightness of touch in terms of structure. Not long but elegant and totally classy. Charming and just easy to like.

92pts Jeb Dunnuck

Tasted on multiple occasions with consistent results, the 2021 Château Sansonnet is another beautiful wine from this talented team and great terroir. Ripe red and black fruits, graphite, spicy oak, and subtle leafy herb and truffly notes all emerge from the glass, and it hits the palate with medium-bodied richness, a pure, elegant mouthfeel, polished tannins, and a great finish. I love it even today, but it will ideally be given just 2-4 years in the cellar and enjoyed over the following decade. The 2021 is 91% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc, raised in 70% new barrels, with a portion in foudre as well as amphora.

Winery Notes

Doctor in pharmacy, Marie-Benedicte Lefevere has taken over the management at Chateau Sansonnet since 2009. It is in the cellars of the family properties in Pomerol and Saint-Emilion that culture and passion for wine was passed on to her. It is now with a lot of ambition and determination that she imagines the future of the production for Chateau Sansonnet, putting all her will and attachment to the property to hoist it to the top of the appellation.

Chateau Sansonnet is located in the North East corner of Saint-Emilion in the heart of the Grands Classified Growths. The exceptional terroir is composed of a thin layer of clay on limestone. Winemaker Dominique Bordeneuve has great experience in winemaking after 20 years at Chateau Sansonnet, it allows the property to rely on a unique knowledge of its terroir and plot. Jean Trias, technical manager, has always been passionate by the world of wine. He held positions and responsibilities in many properties before settling at Chateau Sansonnet in 2000 where he strives to develop the best wines.