Château Lilian Ladouys St Estephe 2020

Château Lilian Ladouys has a rich history dating back to the 16th century, but its modern revival began when Jacky and Françoise Lorenzetti acquired the estate in 2008. Since then, the château has seen significant improvements, especially in the vineyards and cellars, boosting its reputation within Bordeaux’s Saint-Estèphe appellation. Known for producing robust, classic wines characteristic of the Left Bank, the estate consistently overdelivers, often rivalling more prestigious neighbours.

The 2020 vintage is predominantly a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with the vines growing in the cool, clay-limestone soils typical of Saint-Estèphe. This terroir gives the wine its power and depth, resulting in firm tannins and a savoury minerality. Château Lilian Ladouys employs meticulous vineyard practices such as green harvesting and hand-picking, alongside precision winemaking techniques, to ensure complexity and balance. The 2020 vintage stands out for its concentration and freshness, shaped by a warm growing season offset by cooler nights.

Appearance: Deep garnet with purple highlights, showing youthful intensity and vibrancy.

Aroma: Ripe blackberries, cassis, and dark cherries lead the nose, followed by hints of cedar, graphite, and a touch of tobacco, alongside subtle notes of cocoa and spice.

Taste: Full-bodied and rich, it opens with flavours of dark plum and blackcurrant, complemented by earthy undertones of leather and graphite. The well-integrated oak imparts delicate vanilla and spice, while firm tannins provide structure and depth.

Finish: Long and elegant, with lingering notes of blackberry, liquorice, and a touch of minerality, all supported by a fine tannic grip, hinting at excellent ageing potential.

Pairing: This wine pairs wonderfully with a ribeye steak in a peppercorn sauce, where the tannins balance the richness of the meat, or with a wild mushroom risotto, which complements the wine’s earthy, savoury character.