Critic Notes
The maiden 2015 Chateau Alcee comes from three hectare bought by Nicolas Thienpont in 2011 augmented with a 6.5-hectare parcel in Saint-Philippe-d'Aiguilhe. A blend of 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc picked between October 1-13 at 35 hectoliters per hectare, it has an opulent, quite candied bouquet with licorice aromas infusing the dark cherry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, well balanced with finely tuned acidity. The palate is actually much more elegant that the aromatics suggest, smooth and harmonious, almost understated on the finish, yet the persistent aftertaste reminds you that there is plenty of substance here. Give it 2-3 years in bottle. Apr 2016, www.robertparker.com
Score: 90-92/100Neal Martin
Nicolas Thienpoint’s impressively aromatic cuvée comes from red clay soils and is a sumptuous, age worthy claret with layered tannins, fine-grained oak and good underlying concentration. The finish is refreshing. Apr 2016, www.timatkin.com, Drink: 2020-2028
Score: 91-/100Tim AtkinDrinking Window: 2020-2028
Nicolas Thienpont's new property. 95% Merlot, late picked. Vigorous on the nose. Racy and very lively with real nerve. Bite. Firm finish but not enormously concentrated. Apr 2016, www.JancisRobinson.com, Drink: 2018-2024
Score: 16-/20Jancis RobinsonDrinking Window: 2018-2024
The 2015 Alcée is wonderfully dense and unctuous, with striking textural depth throughout. Inky blue and purplish fruit, licorice, mint and cloves meld together in this forward, racy Côtes de Castillon from Nicolas Thienpont. Alcée is 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. Apr 2016, www.Vinous.com
Score: 88-90/100Antonio Galloni
