Confidences de Prieure-Lichine 2018

A Second Wine from the Margaux appellation, aromatic and highly elegant

The estate

4th Grand Cru Classé in 1855, Château Prieuré-Lichine embodies all the typicity of the superb Margaux appellation, located on the left bank of the Bordeaux region. Château du Prieuré de Cantenac became Château Prieuré-Lichine following its acquisition by the charismatic Alexis Lichine, the “Pope of Wine,” in 1951. Upon his death in 1989, his son Sacha took the helm of the estate until 1999, when the property came under the umbrella of the Ballande group.
The philosophy of Château Prieuré-Lichine is centered on excellence in crafting great wines that reveal the full expression and diversity of the Margaux appellation’s outstanding terroirs.

The vineyard

The vineyard of Château Prieuré-Lichine spans 85 hectares. Composed of gravel deposited by the Garonne River, this terroir, typical of the Margaux appellation, absorbs the sun’s heat during the day to better reflect it at night, ensuring optimal ripening of the grapes.

24 hectares are dedicated to the estate’s Second Wine, Confidences de Prieuré-Lichine.

The wine

Following the guidance of the renowned consulting oenologist Stéphane Derenoncourt, Confidences de Prieuré-Lichine 2018 is crafted from a selection of young vines, with the same precision and care as the estate’s Grand Vin.

The vintage

The season began with substantial rainfall, ensuring sufficient water reserves for the rest of the year. However, the high humidity led to significant mildew pressure. Starting in July, a very dry period gradually generated significant water stress, which became apparent by the end of September, concentrating berries with thick skins. The rigor of the château’s teams was decisive in ensuring optimal, uniform ripeness across the entire vineyard.

Winemaking and aging

Hand-harvested, the grapes are sorted manually and then by optical sorting. Transfer to vat is done by gravity, without crushing. Punch-downs performed during alcoholic fermentation allowed for the extraction of ripe, silky tannins. The wines are aged for 12 months, 40% in once-used barrels and 60% in twice-used barrels.

Blend

Merlot (75%)
Cabernet Sauvignon (25%).

Characteristics and tasting notes for Confidences de Prieuré-Lichine 2018

Tasting notes

With a brilliant color, this Confidences de Prieuré-Lichine 2018 captivates with its aromatic power combined with great finesse on the palate. This Second Wine is generous, structured, and delicate.