2016 Prieure Lichine

Exuberant from the first moment, with an expansive feel through the mid palate, and supple tannins that support the fruit without restricting it. Expect waves of blackberry, cassis, liqourice, smoked earth, campfire, pomegrante, crayon, giving plenty of Left Bank character. A fascinating estate from a terroir point of view, as former owner Alexis Lichine bought small plots from across the appellation when he was building it up from the 4ha that remained when he first bought it. Standing at 78ha today, the vines are divided into five sections around the Margaux appellation, and sub-divided into 150 plots. Étienne Charrier technical director since 2012, Stephane Derenoncourt consultant.

Complexity, precision, purity of blackberry fruit with a ton of turmeric spice, campfire smoke, bitter black chocolate and slate. This is still extremely young, showcasing energy and fine tannins, and widens through the palate. Still some austerity at this point, and the tannic frame is dominant, it needs the creaminess that is just emerging through the mid palate to really get embedded over the next few years, but the minerality and juice on the finish bodes well for a long life. Harvest September 23 to 19 October. 50% new oak. 48hl/h yield. Stephane Derenoncourt consultant.

The 2016 Prieuré-Lichine has a compact bouquet of blackberry, raspberry, allspice and light pressed iris scents that are nicely defined. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, offering fine balance, moderate depth and gentle grip toward the finish, which attenuates when you want it to spread out. Give it some time in bottle. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting.