Chateau Lanessan 2003

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.