Chateau Prieure-Lichine Margaux 4. Cru Classe 2017 i trækasse

Decanter

This is the definition of a wine to buy in an off-vintage. It has the signature of the last few years, but in an early-drinking package. It's a little oaky and smoky for sure, but handles it well and delivers punch and personality without overstating the case. Ripe damson fruits help to deliver impact, even if the fruit is generally a touch below the exuberance of the last two years.

Vert de Vin Magazine

The nose is fruity, racy and offers a fine power and finesse of the grain. It reveals notes of wild blackberry, wild raspberry and small notes of blackcurrant associated with fine touches of violet, lily as well as very fine hints of small berries and discreet hints of Cuben pepper/spices. The mouth is fruity, well-balanced and offers a good definition, gourmandize, fat, suavity and a fine tension. On the palate this wine expresses notes of ripe/juicy red cherry, ripe/juicy wild strawberry and small notes of blackberry associated with fine touches of violet as well as fine hints of tonka bean, racy minerality, nutmeg and small notes of graphite, tobacco and mocha. Tannins are elegant and well-built.

James Suckling

A floral and lightly spicy red with redcurrant undertones. Medium-bodied with firm, silky tannins that are polished and poised. Give it time to open. Shows depth and intensity at the end.

Wine Enthusiast

This fruity wine will bring out black-currant flavors along with spice. The tannins are already soft leaving just a dry core to this balanced wine.

Vinum

Of stunning precision and sublime Margaux elegance, with polished and refined tannins, it tastes delightful when young or slightly matured, but also has excellent aging potential.

Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux

Clear spice on the attack, followed by soft berry fruits, finessed floral character, skilful winemaking. Light in structure compared to the previous two years, but there is so much pleasure and balance on display, and it will be great to drink pretty much from now. Smudges of aniseed, fennel and liqourice adds depth, freshness and lift on the finish. Frost impacted the first wine for the first time for decades in 2017, which affected viticultural choices for the rest of the year and needed skilful winemaking to tease out the identity of the Margaux appellation. 37hl/h yield, 50% new oak. Stephane Derenoncourt consultant.

Tastingbook.com