The structure and aromatic finesse of a Saint-Émilion Premier Grand Cru Classé
The estate
Château Larcis Ducasse has existed since the 17th century. Preservation, an expression of the terroir and great care for the vine are at the core of Château Larcis Ducasse. The property rose to the rank of Saint-Émilion Premier Grand Cru Classé in 2012 thanks to the work of Nicolas Thien, who took over the reins of the estate in 2002.
The vineyard
The 11 hectares of the estate are planted in a veritable mosaic of terroirs. The 35-year-old vines are planted on a clay-limestone plateau of asterite limestones, or in clay-loam and clay-limestone colluvial soils.
The vintage
The heavy rainfall and warm temperatures of winter 2020 favoured an early budding of the vines. An episode of frost on April 17 was followed by record rainfall, causing significant mildew pressure and slowing down the development of the vines. Thanks to sufficient wind counteracting the effects of the humidity, flowering took place under good conditions. The beginning of June was marked by cool temperatures and very heavy rains, which ceased from June 19 to August 11. The beautiful thermal amplitudes, the cool nights of August and the rainy days at the end of the summer created ideal conditions for the ripening of the grapes. September saw the return of cool temperatures and rainfall, refining the ripeness, colours and tannic structure of the grapes in time for the harvest.
The blend
The Château Larcis Ducasse 2020 was made from a blend of Merlot (90%) and Cabernet Franc (10%).
The tasting
The Château Larcis Ducasse 2020 fully expresses the potential of its sunny terroir, through a wine of beautiful density, freshness, and supple, gourmet structure.