Medium ruby with a tight rim. The light, ruby tone with a red-orange tinge does not reflect the style; the nose is even more pleasing, given the weightier, dark-fruited palate. The palate remains very juicy, with a supple and even feel, where the tannins are polished and the red cherry-plum flavours hold impressively fresh into a dry, chalky, rustic finish—a wine with a unique personality, which is scholarly and broody.
From an excellent vintage that lends to its overall ripeness and structure. 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7.5% Cabernet Franc and 2.5% Petit Verdot- classically Left Bank wine geared towards at least complexity.
DD92, RP91. Not bad!
This wine, with its deep ruby colour and tight rim, is a testament to time and patience. Aged for 8 years in the bottle, it has developed a complexity that is both direct and savoury, complemented by a creamy texture. It’s a straightforward cru of quality, with appropriate intensity and ease.
James Suckling rated it at 94 points. We believe it is the perfect time to open a bottle and experience its mature flavours.
I tried this wine last night in a restaurant in Fortress Hill, paired with some classic Chinese dishes, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well it complemented the food. Its versatility makes it appealing for pairing with a variety of Chinese cuisines, which is sure to intrigue even the most discerning wine enthusiasts.
The 2003 vintage of Château Lanessan stands out from an unusually hot year, offering a mix of aromas and a juicy body for the age. With enticing notes of bacon, tar, and black pepper, it presents a full mouthfeel filled with black and red fruits, bacon fat, sweet spices, and cream. Remarkably, it maintains reasonable freshness with a sufficient red fruit finish and displays its age well.
On the palate, the wine reveals herbal and spicy elements, accompanied by a firm structure, medium body, and 13.5% alcohol. The well-integrated tannins and balanced tension make it a delightful choice, rated at 91 points (DD91) for its ease of drinking and appeal to a wide range of preferences. Château Lanessan offers great value for its quality.
Despite the challenging hot weather, it produced a classically styled Médoc red wine that is ready to enjoy now, reminiscent of wines from Château Gruaud-Larose and Château Lynch-Bages, albeit not as dense and slightly lighter.
This estate is a respected Cru Bourgeois property, holding a Grand Cru Hors Classé status, and is known for delivering Cru Classé quality at more accessible prices. The wine is vinified in traditional concrete vats, undergoes malolactic fermentation in a tank, and ages 12 months in a mix of new and used French barrels. The blend comprises 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. Expert scores for Lanessan wines generally range from 86 to 92 points, providing wine lovers with an exceptional quality experience at a fantastic price.
