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 2017 Larcis-Ducasse is a Bordeaux Blend from the renowned Saint Emilion region in Bordeaux, France. With a deep garnet-purple color, this wine immediately catches the eye. The nose is filled with enticing aromas of kirsch, warm blackberries, baked plums, and wild blueberries. Subtle hints of pencil lead, tar, tilled soil, and forest floor add complexity and intrigue to the bouquet.

On the palate, the Larcis-Ducasse reveals its true character. It is a medium-bodied wine with great poise and subtlety. The tightly knit structure and energetic fruit create a harmonious balance. The palate bursts with flavors of stony, mineral-driven red plums and cherries, showcasing the unique terroir of the region. As the wine lingers, a mouthwatering salinity emerges, adding depth and complexity.

The critics are unanimous in their praise for this wine. Jeff Leve describes it as concentrated, fresh, and complex, advising to give it a decade to allow everything to come together and gain softness and nuances. Jeb Dunnuck highlights the wine's flawless balance, great finish, and sense of minerality. James Suckling recognizes the wine's structure and recommends enjoying it after 2025.

The 2017 Larcis-Ducasse has received high scores across the board. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it 95 points, praising its tightly knit palate and great length. Wine Spectator gave it 93 points, commending its refined and focused nature. Vinous also awarded it 96 points, recognizing its striking fruit purity and complexity.

This wine has a promising future and will benefit from further bottle age. It is recommended to drink it from 2024 onwards, but for those with patience, it has the potential to age gracefully for 15-20 years or more. The 2017 Larcis-Ducasse is a true gem from Saint Emilion, offering a regal experience and exceptional value.