2017 is most fruited since 2012. Still, it needs some time to integrate for the best result, though.
It has a classic spectrum frame(red cherries, tomato, spice, hints of black tea and vanilla) pointing to the Sangiovese that deftly combines with Cabernet and Merlot to form a light-medium-bodied blend with a touch more acidity and liveliness. The composition is balanced with the Merlot (25%) compensates for better ripeness and body or fatness; Cabernet (10%) supports the density and structure of Sangiovese's bright and aromatic personality.
If decanted nicely, an entry-level Super Tuscan this young like this 2017 will give a depth of mixed red/black plums and currants lovely fruit flavours eventually. After that, it becomes focused, layered and shows lots of complex herbs, wild brush, leather and rosemary, but behind that is a core of umami like soy, mushroom and salty finish. It is framed by excellent acidity, making it a very well balanced — long, unique Super Tuscan structure. Scores are consistent, like 93JS, 91RP.
It nurtures from 12-month ageing in quality oak barrels, 10% is new French oak, and 90% used oak for one year. The winery is very modern. From Panzano, the Gold Basin of Chianti 360 meter high; Super Tuscan stylistics; price for 'the mass'. What more?
Deep ruby colour with a medium rim, 2013 is lightish with quite ample black fruit with smoky and leathery tones. The palate reflects the nose- it is shortish yet pleasant. The structure is well-balanced, with good acidity and 13% alcohol level. Well done, second wine from Chateau Cantemerle. Blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot. Ageing 12 months in French oak barrels and vats. The right time to drink with two years to go. Not many scores on this vintage: Wine-Searcher gives a score of 90.
The official site writes about the wine as follows. The second wine of Château de Cantemerle, Les Allées de Cantemerle, is produced mainly from the young vines of the estate. It always has some rare to achieve such refinement in fruit aromas for wines at this level. It can be drunk very young when the charm and the fruit dominate and blend with the taste of vanilla from the barrels where it has matured. This wine is then that of the modern consumer, who likes fresh tannins.
(Photo 2006)
However, it can also be drunk ancient when it displays this impeccable presence, this understated distinction, and these incomparable aromas. By this, it is akin to the rare wines in the world that can span several decades.
You can't go wrong with this 21014 4th Growth classic Margaux with the high-cost performance. Rose. Ripe fruit, blackberry, spices, coffee, tobacco, earthy, lead-pencil-not too complicated but easy to understand. The palate is structured and balance; silky on the entrance, but there is a Cantenac toughness behind which is softened by the richness and palate diversity from soil(70 Ha) and grapes(4 noble grapes with 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot ) though. 2014 is fresh and comfortable, with a medium finish. It drinks fine now. Consistent scoring: RP92, JS93, AG94, WE93. The most recent and detailed tasting notes is from AG who writes,' The 2014 Prieuré-Lichine is just as impressive from bottle as it was from barrel. Silky, perfumed and gracious on the palate, the wine exudes class. Sweet floral and spice notes meld into a core of red stone fruit, and silky tannins and vivid flavors lead into a creamy and inviting finish. I would prefer to cellar 2014 for at least a few years, but it is quite beautiful and polished even at this early stage.The blend is 65 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 30 % Merlot and 5 % Petit Verdot. This is a very strong showing from Prieuré-Lichine and consulting winemakers Stéphane Derenoncourt and Julien Lavenu.
Etienne Charrier is the new technical director; Stephane Derenoncourt, the consultant. Grapes are sorted by the revolutionary "La Vision" computerised system after harvesting at a meagre yield. Elevage in 50% new oak. Very modern equipment.
