2022, Château Larcis Ducasse, SAINT-ÉMILION, 1er Grand Cru Classé 'B'

Bordeaux Blend: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc.

This 10 hectare property is situated close to Pavie on the best south-facing slope in Saint Emilion. In 2002 Nicolas Thienpont and Stéphane Derenoncourt, of neighbouring Pavie Macquin, took control of both the vineyard and the winemaking. The wines here are impressively concentrated in style. 2022 is a blend of 90% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Cabernet Franc.

This is really precise with a lazer-guided fine tannin structure throughout the wine, and juicy and electric texture. It’s so refined and polished. Endless. Wonderful young wine with a terrific future. 98-99 James Suckling.

2022 Larcis Ducasse is deep garnet-purple in colour. It wows as it powers out of the glass with bright, expressive notes of juicy blackberries, fresh black cherries, and warm plums, followed by suggestions of Indian spices, iron ore, iris bulb, and crushed rocks. The full-bodied palate is laden with rich, seductive, and amazingly energetic black and blue fruits, framed by super-ripe, velvety tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing with epic length. This 2022 is a triumph! 97-99 Lisa Perrotti-Brown.

You feel the fingerprint of the limestone here, from a team that is never afraid of austerity in a young wine. It opens to show creamy black and red fruits, with steely acidity that keeps the ripeness in check. 96 Jane Anson.

Drinking Window: 2030 - 2065