Château Prieuré-Lichine 2014

A dense and creamy Margaux red wine

The estate

4th Grand Cru Classé in 1855, Château Prieuré-Lichine presents all the character of the superb Margaux appellation.

Château du Prieuré de Cantenac became Château Prieuré-Lichine when it was bought by the charismatic Alexis Lichine, the "Pope of Wine" in 1951. After his death in 1989, his son Sacha took over the reins of the estate until 1999, when the property became part of the Ballande group.

The philosophy of Château Prieuré-Lichine is focused on excellence in the production of great wines that reveal all the expression and diversity of the great terroirs of Margaux, an emblematic appellation located on Bordeaux’s Left Bank.

The vineyard

Château Prieuré-Lichine 2014 is a Margaux wine that stems from a 77.5-hectare vineyard. Planted on Garonne gravel typical of the Margaux appellation, the vines, on average 30 years old, benefit from an exceptional terroir.

The vintage

A mild and rainy winter gave way to a particularly wet spring, putting great pressure on the vineyard’s health. The dry conditions in June brought about an even flowering. The summer saw a cool and wet August, which slowed down veraison and increased the pressure on the vineyard. From September onwards a dry and mild spell set in, which was ideal for ripening. The grapes harvested were of a great quality.

Winemaking and ageing

Harvests in small crates. Sorting on a vibrating table. Manual and optique sorting. No crushing. Plot-based vinification. Vatting by gravity. 30-32 days in vats. Ageing took place in barrels, of which 50% was in new casks and 50% in barrels of one wine.

Blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (65%)
Merlot (30%)
Petit Verdot (5%).

Characteristics and tasting tips for Château Prieuré-Lichine 2014

Tasting

This Margaux entices with its density, structure and its velvety touch.