2016 Lilian Ladouys

A classic St Estèphe, top to bottom with power and freshness, blackcurrant and black cherry fruit, firm tannins, confident and clean acidities on the finish, given focus by orange peel and bitter almond. Plenty of character. 30% new oak, 46ha, Eric Boissenot consultant, Jacky Lorenzetti owner, Vincent Bache-Gabrilesen director.

The 2016 Lilian Ladouys is opulent and vivacious on a nose of red currant and raspberry fruit, well integrated oak and lovely rose petal aromas. The medium-bodied palate delivers supple tannins, well-judged acidity, good body and a grippy but detailed finish with veins of blue fruit. This is a joy to drink, but it needs a couple of years. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting.