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Tasting notes
The 2017 La Prade is rich and powerful, just as it was from barrel. A rush of blackberry jam, gravel, spice, leather and smoke gives the 2017 its somber, virile personality. Potent in both its fruit and tannic structure, the 2017 could use a year or two in bottle to come together, but I imagine it will always remain a bit rustic. There is no shortage of intensity, that much is clear. Yields are down 50% - 7 hectares in production, 4.5 were not frosted, but this is rustic. Tasted three times.
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Average Score
James Suckling
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2017 La Prade leaps from the glass with youthful Morello cherries, crushed blackberries and warm plums scents plus wafts of anise and underbrush. Medium-bodied, it has a firm, grainy texture and seamless freshness supporting the earth-sparked fruit, finishing with good length.
The 2017 La Prade has a straightforward bouquet of blackberry, melted tar and light tobacco aromas that gradually unfold and reveal commendable definition. The palate is medium-bodied with supple, rounded tannins, plenty of juicy black fruit laced with tar and black pepper, with a harmonious finish. Nicolas Thienpont has crafted a fine Francs Côtes de Bordeaux here.
Coming from the team of Nicolas Thienpont, and a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc brought up in 50% new French oak, the 2017 Chateau La Prade sports a deeper ruby color as well as a complex, nuanced style in its red and black currant fruits as well as notes of sandalwood, spice, and incense. Nicely textured, balanced, medium-bodied, and with a great finish, it shows a touch more minerality than the Puygueraud and is reminiscent of a Saint-Emilion from the limestone soils on the upper plateau. It's a terrific wine to enjoy over the coming 7-8 years. Tasted twice.
About the producer
Nicolas Thienpont purchased this estate in the Francs Côtes de Bordeaux in 2000. The seven hectares of vines average 40 years in age, divided between 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, sitting partly on the limestone plateau in the village Saint-Cibard.