2001 Prieure Lichine

Heady, chunky nose. Cantenac Brown-like – a little stodgy but substantial. (JR)

Mid-crimson and decidedly aromatic. Solid fruit is followed by some foot-dragging, almost furry tannins and a dry finish. Needs time but is much more classically made than the 2000. (JR)

A renaissance has been taking place at Prieure-Lichine since esteemed winemaking guru Stephane Derenoncourt was brought in to oversee the wines’ vinification and upbringing. This is a complicated, morsellated vineyard that is neither easy to harvest nor manage, but the 2001 is an elegant blend of 49% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petit Verdot, and 2% Cabernet Franc. It was aged primarily on its lees, given micro-bullage while in tank, and bottled unfined and unfiltered. Like many wines of this appellation, it is a pretty, delicate effort revealing a dark ruby color along with floral, red currant, cranberry, and black fruit characteristics, a medium-bodied texture, good density, and an early-drinking style. Enjoy it over the next decade.