Chateau Prieure Lichine 2018

Winery Background:

• Château Prieuré-Lichine is a renowned 4th Growth estate located in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux. The château has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century when it was originally part of a Benedictine priory. In the 20th century, it gained prominence under the ownership of Alexis Lichine, a visionary who played a significant role in modernizing the estate and its winemaking practices. Today, Prieuré-Lichine is recognized for producing elegant, refined, and classic Margaux wines that reflect the finesse of the region.

• The 2018 vintage was characterized by a warm, dry growing season, leading to ripe, concentrated wines with excellent structure and balance.

Tasting Notes:

• Appearance: Deep, inky purple with vibrant hues.

• Nose: The bouquet opens with aromas of blackberries, blackcurrant, and plum, followed by notes of cedar, cigar box, and a touch of graphite. There are also subtle hints of vanilla, mocha, and toasted oak from barrel aging.

• Palate: Full-bodied with velvety tannins and a rich texture. The palate showcases ripe dark fruit flavors of blackberries, black cherries, and blueberries, complemented by savory notes of licorice, tobacco, and a hint of dark chocolate. The wine has a well-integrated oak influence, adding layers of complexity without overpowering the fruit. Fresh acidity provides balance, while the tannins give the wine structure and a polished mouthfeel.

• Finish: Long and persistent, with lingering notes of dark fruits, spice, and a touch of minerality, suggesting excellent aging potential.

Scores:

• Wine Advocate: 94/100

• Praised for its concentration, structure, and refined tannins, with excellent aging potential over the next 15-20 years.

• James Suckling: 96/100

• Celebrated for its ripe, polished fruit, fine tannins, and complexity, offering a seamless integration of power and finesse.

• Vinous (Antonio Galloni): 93/100

• Noted for its balance, elegance, and the harmonious blend of fruit, oak, and earthy notes, making it a classic representation of Margaux.

The Château Prieuré-Lichine 2018 is an impressive vintage that showcases the depth, elegance, and aging potential of Margaux wines. With its rich fruit, refined structure, and polished tannins, this wine can be enjoyed in its youth but will continue to develop beautifully over the next two decades.