2018 Larcis Ducasse

Incorporating 11% Cabernet Franc, the Merlot-dominated 2018 Château Larcis Ducasse come from an 11.5-hectare parcel of clay and limestone soils, on the south facing hillside just outside of Saint-Émilion, and there are only 2,400 cases made, which equates to 72% of the total production. This deeply colored beauty offers a thrilling blue fruit quality as well as complex violets, graphite, and a liquid rock-like minerality. It's deep and thrillingly pure, with fine tannins and a beautiful finish. This is an incredible terroir, and the estate has been firing on all cylinders thanks to the talents of Nicolas Thienpont and David Suire. Give bottles 4-5 years (if you can) and it will keep for 30-40 years if you’re so inclined.

A wine of total sophistication and class, Larcis Ducasse is fabulous in 2018. Freshly cut flowers, bright red fruit, espresso, licorice and wild flowers are all vibrant in the glass. The 2018 marries fruit intensity, energy and structure like few wines in this vintage. The 2018 is deceptive in its mid-weight structure, but it packs a real punch. There is an element of precision in Larcis that is truly remarkable. Even with all of its intensity, Larcis retains its characteristic linear feel and drive. I loved it. Tasted three times.