2022, Château Lilian Ladouys, SAINT-ESTÈPHE, Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel

Bordeaux Blend: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot.

Intense colour, marzipan and fennel, caraway seeds, cracked pepper, very classic St Estèphe in that it has just a ton of cassis and bilberry fruit, with chewy tannins through the mid palate. This is clearly extremely well made, almost 2010 in feel, with balance and confidence. Due for certifcation organic in 2024, now in conversion. Highest amount of Petit Verdot at this estate, lost around 30% of the crop through hail and frost in northern St Estèphe. 35% new oak barrels, alongside larger sized oak casks for ageing. 93 Jane Anson.

The 2022 Lilian Ladouys is a dense, powerful wine. In most vintages, Lilian Ladouys is a bit lighter, but in 2022 everything is amplified. A shift in parcels and the style of the year have resulted in a serious, punchy wine with real breadth. Savoury and earthy notes add complexity. 90-92 Antonio Galloni.

Drinking Window: 2025 - 2034