Viniou Reviews
Confidences de Prieuré-Lichine 2019 is the second wine of the esteemed Château Prieuré-Lichine, located in the heart of the Margaux appellation in the Médoc, Bordeaux. Crafted predominantly from Merlot, completed by Cabernet Sauvignon and sometimes a touch of Petit Verdot, this cuvée is designed to be approachable in its youth while still expressing the elegance typical of Margaux. The 2019 vintage benefited from a warm, sunny growing season, imparting plush, ripe fruit notes without sacrificing freshness. Vinification is carried out with careful extraction and aging in French oak barrels, a proportion of which are new, to bring added complexity and a supple texture to the wine.
Margaux is one of the most revered appellations in Bordeaux, renowned for its finesse, aromatic complexity, and silken tannins. The region lies on the left bank of the Gironde estuary, where the climate is tempered by Atlantic breezes, reducing extreme temperatures and fostering slow, even ripening. The soils are predominantly gravelly, with excellent drainage, ideal for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The history of Margaux stretches back centuries, with its châteaux celebrated for producing some of the most perfumed and structured wines in France, balancing power with grace.
Confidences de Prieuré-Lichine 2019, with its generous bouquet of dark berries, violets, and a gentle hint of cedar, is versatile at the table. Its plush fruit profile and soft, polished tannins pair beautifully with classic Bordeaux dishes such as entrecôte à la bordelaise, roast duck breast, or a mushroom risotto. Regional cheeses like Saint-Nectaire or aged Comté also complement its elegant structure. For a more modern touch, consider lamb chops with rosemary or a rich aubergine gratin.
For optimal enjoyment, decant this wine for at least 30 minutes to allow its aromas to unfold, and serve it at a temperature between 16-18°C. This will reveal the wine’s refined texture and subtle complexity, making for a delightfully balanced drinking experience.
