Chateau Lilian Ladouys Saint Estephe 2022, 75cl

Chateau Lilian Ladouys Saint Estephe 2022 is primarily sourced from dedicated parcels of vines (averaging over 35 years of age) located within the Saint-Estèphe appellation in the northern Médoc. This cuvée represents a blend of several high-quality climates, drawing fruit from approximately 80y hectares of vines growing on magnificent gravelly soils with a clay-limestone subsoil, which provide an exceptional combination of water retention and drainage. This vintage is a blend of 52% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 8% Petit Verdot. The estate is managed with a philosophy of minimal intervention, and this cuvée is crafted with the same meticulous attention to terroir as the region's most respected wines, utilizing sustainable farming practices (certified HVE 3 and in organic conversion since 2020) and a gravity-led cellar to ensure the gentlest possible handling of the fruit. It was aged in French oak barrels (with a proportion of new oak) to preserve its fresh, vibrant fruit character and highlight the power and structure typical of its origin.

This is one of the rising stars of this famous village. The Lorenzetti family has had a huge impact on the development of the domaine since they took over in 2008, leading the transition to more precise and holistic viticulture. Purity and clarity of style are the hallmarks here, with an essence of opulence, but somehow also restrained fruit showing how Saint-Estèphe can be so powerful yet remarkably refined.

Tasting Notes:

These wines are juicy and charming in youth though always age worthy. Structured, aromatic and intense. And true to form, here in 2022, we are presented with a wine which is high-toned, lifted, and superbly pure. This Chateau Lilian Ladouys shows pretty blackberry, black cherry, crushed gravel, and peony aromas, backed by perfumed cedar, graphite, and that classic Saint-Estèphe deep, earthy minerality. Full-bodied with firm, velvety tannins and a complex flavour profile with a long, savoury finish.

Serving Suggestion:

Pairs best with robust dishes such as ribeye steak, wild boar or duck confit. Earthy dishes of mushroom risotto, hearty pasta or root vegetables and hard, aged cheeses.