1966 Larcis Ducasse
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Tasting notes
The 1966 Larcis Ducasse is a vintage that I have encountered once or twice before, both leaving a positive impression. It has retained a deep, clear colour with a minimal bricking on the rim considering its age. The bouquet is very satisfying: brambly red fruit, menthol, something almost Burgundian as I have observed before. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins that have dried a little in recent years. It is an understated 1966 without the structure of others born this year. Raspberry, cedar and light balsamic notes form the slightly austere finish in keeping with the vintage, a peppery residue lingering on the aftertaste. I would drink bottles over the next four to six years. Tasted at the Larcis Ducasse vertical in Bordeaux.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider
More reviews and scores
Another impeccable wine from the 1960s, the 1966 Larcis Ducasse has held up beautifully. It doesn't quite have the charm of the 1967, but it is also not far behind. Dark cherry, leather, mint, tobacco, mushroom and spice nuances are laced throughout. Any remaining bottles need to be finished, as the 1966 is now fully mature.
If you ever see a bottle of 1966 Larcis-Ducasse, do not hesitate to buy it. I was taken aback by the quality of this Saint Emilion. It displayed an almost Burgundy-like mulberry bouquet with wonderful definition. The palate has bags of fruit, far more than I would have expected for a 1966, soft in texture, but with great depth and roundness. There are touches of allspice and morels towards the finish, which seems youthful and with many more years of pleasure to give. What a turn up for the books! Tasted April 2016.
About the producer
Over the last two decades, Nicolas Thienpont and David Suire have forged this estate’s reputation – crafting increasingly impressive wines from its 11 hectares of south-facing slopes on clay-limestone soils.