Wines Margaux Château Prieuré-Lichine - 2018

Château Prieuré-Lichine 2018 is a distinguished Margaux from the heart of the Médoc, renowned for its expressive blend typical of the appellation. Crafted mainly from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with touches of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, the 2018 vintage benefited from a generous growing season, resulting in exceptional ripeness and concentration. The estate’s gravelly soils impart classic finesse and a silky tannic structure, while vinification in temperature-controlled vats and barrel ageing, often with a significant proportion of new oak, adds complexity and polish. This vintage seduces with fragrant aromas of blackcurrant, violet, cedar, and subtle spices, leading to a palate of ripe plum, cassis, graphite, and fine-grained tannins, all brought together by a persistent, elegant finish.

Margaux, a famed commune on the left bank of Bordeaux, enjoys a temperate maritime climate, moderated by the Gironde estuary and Atlantic breezes. The region’s famed gravelly soils, rich in quartz and stones, encourage deep root systems and excellent drainage, producing wines noted for their aromatics, refinement, and longevity. The history of the Margaux appellation, one of the Médoc’s oldest winegrowing areas, is steeped in tradition and prestige, with estates like Château Prieuré-Lichine contributing to the appellation’s world-class reputation and stylistic hallmarks—elegance, aromatic intensity, and superb ageing potential.

The refined structure and aromatic complexity of this Margaux make it a superb companion to classic French dishes such as roast lamb with rosemary, duck breast with cherry reduction, or tender fillet of beef in shallot sauce. For a regional pairing, serve alongside entrecôte à la bordelaise or wild mushroom risotto. Mature cheeses like aged Comté or a selection of French hard cheeses also complement the wine’s nuanced flavours.

For ideal enjoyment, decant Château Prieuré-Lichine 2018 for at least an hour before serving to allow its bouquet to unfold. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C to reveal its full aromatic and textural finesse. This wine promises further evolution over the coming decade, rewarding patient cellaring.