2019 Lagrange St Julien

Dark plum in colour, medium intensity, this is sleek, well-defined and has an extremely pure expression of cassis fruit. Just enormously elegant, with tons of St Julien balance, and fine tannins that are sure to take it through the next few decades with ease. I love this wine, one of the most enjoyable of the vintage in St Julien, with a strikingly seductive texture. Tasted twice two weeks apart, sure to become a standout with some bottle age. When you look at the figures (which I only did after tasting) you start to understand why this is so good - highest level of Cabernet in the estate's recent history, longest harvest ever through to October 14, and only 1/3 of overall production in the 1st wine, lowest amount to date. Whatever they are doing, they are getting it right.

Look at all that Cabernet in the blend! Classic graphite and cassis aromas. Deep and quite profound with layered fruit, freshness and a big but polished tannic frame. Long, firm finish. Solid and with staying power. (JL)

The 2019 Lagrange is a dark, sumptuous wine endowed with tremendous textural resonance and pure power. Cedar, sweet tobacco, dried leaves, leather and licorice all add nuance to a core of ripe red cherry and red plum fruit. I especially admire Lagrange's depth in 2019.