Château Lascombes - 'Chevalier de Lascombes' Margaux 2016

One of the first known owners of Château Lascombes was the knight Chevalier de Lascombes, who was born in 1625 and inherited it from the Durfort de Duras family. The estate remained the property of the Lascombes family for the three generations that followed, up until the French Revolution. Over the next few centuries, Château Lascombes would pass from one owner to another, each one contributing their own personal touch to the estate and its wines. The picturesque, ivy-colored chartreuse style château we see on the property today was originally constructed during the 17th century but went through a series of modifications by the succession of owners. 

In 1855, Château Lascombes was officially rated as a Second Growth by the 1855 Classification of Medoc wines, commissioned by Napoleon III. Château Lascombes is situated in the northwestern part of the Margaux appellation of the Medoc wine region on the Left Bank of Bordeaux. Today considered one of the largest classified growths of Bordeaux and the largest vineyard of the Margaux appellation, Lascombes reigns over a vineyard of 120 hectares (296 acres) in Margaux and an additional 10 hectares (24 acres) in Haut-Medoc.

The wines age 18 to 20 months in French oak barrels, the percentage of new oak having been reduced significantly in the past few years. Chateau Lascombes uses a unique barrel rotation system, which keeps the lees suspended in order to increase their contact with the must. This technique results in a wine with more body and volume without having to expose it to oxygen.

In most vintages, the Chateau Lascombes Grand Vin is a full-bodied and rich red wine, characterized by highly concentrated aromas of ripe black fruit and touches of cedar. Depending on the vintage, aromas of coffee, licorice, spices and cardamom can add further nuance to the bouquet. One of the classic Margaux wines, its tannins are usually quite supple, elegant and smooth, especially after aging seven to eight years, which is recommended for most vintages. Nevertheless, it can age in the cellar for 30 years or more, evolving great complexity over time. Flavors of blackberry, blackcurrant and raspberry mingle with mocha and toasted bread nuances upon a precise, tense and slightly mineral palate.

Opening with a bouquet of ripe black fruits, the 2016 Chevalier des Lascombes seduces with its bold attack. The concentrated palate is marked by its subtle union between power and elegance. Intense fruity aromas mix with a tannic structure of great finesse.

"This offers very attractive warm stones, spicy, brambly berries and nicely played, toasty oak. The palate has a bold, juicy and deep-set array of fine and sleek tannins that build nice and even into the finish. Great balance and lots to offer. Second wine of Château Lascombes. Try from 2022." - 92 Points, James Suckling

Producer: Chevalier de Lascombes

Country: France

Region: Bordeaux

Varietal: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc

Appellation: Margaux

Vintage: 2016

Size: 750ml