Chateau Prieuré-Lichine 2012, Margaux 4th Growth
Can’t go wrong with this 4th Growth classic Margaux with the high cost performance. Ripe fruit, blackberry, spices, coffee, tobacco, earthy-not too complicated but easy enough to understand. The palate is structured and balance; silky on 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. 2012 is fresh and comfortable, with a medium finish. Drinks fine now. Consistent scoring: RP91, JS92, AG92.
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.
A wine with blackberry, spice and licorice character. Medium to full body, firm tannins and a fruity finish. Subtle and fine. Shows class. Lovely tannins. Drink in 2016.
Score: 92 James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com, February 2015
The 2012 Prieuré-Lichine is soft, open-knit and totally inviting. Sweet floral notes meld into the typical Prieuré Lichine red stone fruits. Already quite expressive and totally delicious, the 2012 should offer readers a long and broad window of pure pleasure. The silky, persistent finish points to a bright future. The 2012 is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot.....
Score: 92 Antonio Galloni, vinous.com, January 2016
