2018 Labegorce
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Tasting notes
Rich blackberry and fig fruits, well structured dominant tannins that remain fairly tight at this point, exuberant turmeric, black pepper and dried herbs, with a flash of heat on the finish. Atypical in the lineup, reflecting the heat of the vintage, but a ton of pleasure to be found here. 33% new oak. Harvest September 20 to October 15, technical director Marjolaine de Coninck.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
Tasted blind. Sweet oaky nose. Some ripe fruit here almost distracts from the tannins. Rich and flattering. Sinewy. (JR)
The 2018 Labegorce has a very seductive bouquet of pure black cherries, blueberry and crushed floral scents. This is one of the more precocious 2018 Margaux, revealing an increasing floral element with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy red and black fruit laced with tar and licorice. Very cohesive, tightening up toward the finish, which retains fine nuance and mineralité .
The 2018 Château Labegorce is a perfumed, already complex Margaux based on 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Its medium ruby hue gives way to lovely notes of blueberries, raspberries, flowers, sandalwood, and assorted baking spice cabinet-like nuances. Medium to full-bodied, with beautifully pure fruit and silky tannins, it's a wine that grows on you with time in the glass. It's not a blockbuster, but it exudes elegance and class as well as balance. Enjoy bottles any time over the coming 20-25 years or more.
About the producer
Historically Château Labégorce was one of the largest estates in the Médoc. It was originally owned by the Grosse family (or Gorce – hence the name) whose ownership dates back to the 14th century.