2018 Prieure Lichine
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Tasting notes
Powerful tannins, this is young, with depth and clear ripeness to the tannins, touches of chocolate, brioche, creamy smoked toffee and cocoa. A burst of heat throws things off on the finish, saved by a eucalyptus edge that brings in freshness and grip. 45% new oak, Stephane Dernenoncourt consultant, 39hl/h yield, harvest September 24 to October 10.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Tasted blind. Intense, savoury nose. Composed and mouth-filling with a dry end but lots of purple fruit (elderberry?) on the way there. Clean and cool. (JR)
The 2018 Prieuré-Lichine has kept its understated and elegant bouquet, presenting those same blackberry and cedar notes, perhaps with more red fruit emerging with aeration (cranberry and raspberry preserve). The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins (finer than I noticed out of barrel) and plenty of freshness on the finish. This has indeed tempered its excesses and should evolve into a fine Margaux.
The 2018 Château Prieure-Lichine is terrific and certainly a step up over past vintages. Pure black and blue fruits, spring flowers, violets, and cedarwood notes all emerge from the glass, and it's medium to full-bodied, elegant and nicely focused on the palate, with a solid sense of freshness and purity. With moderate tannins, terrific overall balance, and outstanding length, it's a beautiful wine. It already offers pleasure with a decant yet should hit prime time in 4-5 years and keep for 15-20 years. The blend is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot, brought up in 45% new French oak.
About the producer
After 50 years under the direction of the Lichine family, this leading Margaux estate entered a new chapter in 1999 when négociant Ballande took the reins, continuing the property’s previous upward trajectory.