Chateau Larcis-Ducasse is a Premier Grand Cru Classe B estate in the Saint-Emilion AOC of Bordeaux’s Right Bank. Already extremely popular and highly sought-after in the 16th century, Larcis Ducasse’s wines have continued to garner praise into the 21st century. It’s ownership has been in the same family since 1893.

Chateau Larcis-Ducasse’s 11 hectares of closely-grouped blocks occupies the tip of the famous Cote Pavie hill, west of Chateau Pavie and north of Chateau Troplong Mondot. The vineyards enjoy a fully south-facing position and are planted with 78% Merlot and 22% Cabernet Franc. Soil types range from alluvial sand deposits, to limestone, clay and chalk. The vines average 35 years of age.

Since 2002, Nicolas Thienpont and Stephane Derenoncourt have led a new winemaking team. They have worked to further increase wine quality, investing considerably in the vineyard and cellar. They combine traditional methods with innovative techniques to complement the flavors of the land. Among the changes have been a new drainage system for the vineyard and an extended harvest that picks over several weeks as the various blocks become ready.

Chateau Larcis-Ducasse’s terroir produces wonderfully ripe grapes which result in complex, well-structured wines with fresh fruit and mineral flavors. These characteristics are, in part, attributable to the different bedrocks found on the property, from the limestone of the plateau to the iron-rich feldspar sand at the base of the slope.

Viticultural methods are as natural as possible. Yields are kept low in the vineyard were grape varieties were planted according to soil type. In the cellar, grapes undergo a gentle maceration to avoid over-extraction. Vinification takes place in concrete tanks with no pump-over. After fermentation, the wine is aged in barrel for eighteen months.

The 2018 Larcis-Ducasse Bordeaux Blend is a masterclass in winemaking, a testament to the perfect harmony between the terroir of the Saint Emilion region in Bordeaux, France, and the careful craftsmanship of the producer, Larcis-Ducasse. This red wine, with its cork closure, boasts an alcohol content of 14.5%, and presents a rich, intense red color that is as captivating as it is inviting.

From the first pour, the Larcis-Ducasse 2018 entices with a polished bouquet of lavender, plum, dried blueberry, clove, sandalwood, and dark chocolate. An underlying hint of praline adds an unexpected layer to the complex aroma profile. Upon the first sip, the full-bodied richness of this red wine comes to the fore, with firm, tightly knit tannins that provide structure and depth. The palate reveals seamless layers of flavors, offering great length and precision, and an earthy finish that lingers long after the last sip.

The tasting notes speak to a wine that is still reserved and tight, suggesting a potential for aging that will only enhance its inherent qualities. The presence of blackberry, plum preserves, boysenberries, and black truffles, suggest an incredibly well-rounded and balanced wine. Furthermore, the subtle underlying perfume of roses and cloves adds a touch of elegance and sophistication.

An additional layer of complexity is provided by the wine's textural elements. With its granular, mouth-coating black fruits and loads of savory sparks, this wine is undeniably dense and full-bodied, yet it maintains a sense of balance and harmony. The seamless finish, which lasts for at least 50 seconds, is a testament to the wine's exceptional structure and composition.

This Bordeaux Blend is undoubtedly a wine that commands attention and respect. Its richness, depth, and elegantly woven flavors make it a superb choice for any serious wine connoisseur. The 2018 Larcis-Ducasse Bordeaux Blend is a wine to be savored, enjoyed, and remembered.