Château Prieuré Lichine, 4ème Cru Classé, Margaux, 2022

This 2022 has a blend led by 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 30% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. A rather sweet, smoky and brooding character on the nose, with blackcurrant, blackberry, toasted liquorice, tar and mint. The palate follows on from this dark and somewhat brooding nose with a polished and finely integrated style, with powdery and dark substance, a fine grip of rich tannins, and toasted blackberry and olive fruits. There is quite a bit of spirity oak lactone here, but this will integrate given time, and it does not detract from the cohesive structure and wealth of dark fruits. A very impressive Margaux, the structure and holding up well throughout, even into the finish and length, where the tannins linger long. A smart 2022 from Prieuré-Lichine, an estate that deserves a greater following. Put this one in your cellar. Tasted twice. The alcohol on the label is 13.5%.

DRINKING WINDOW 2028 - 2050

date of review 06/2025

Enticing aromatics, crushed rose petals, with a kick of dark cassis and blueberry fruits on the opening, well balanced, enjoyable, delivered with skill and retains the appellation typicity while not sacrificing the exuberance of the year. Good quality. One to age, you can feel the tannins holding everything firmly in place at this point. 32hl/h yield.

DRINKING WINDOW 2028 - 2042

date of review 03/2025

The 2022 Prieuré-Lichine has a very ripe bouquet in keeping with the growing season, which saw three heat waves. It has black cherry, cassis and iodine aromas on the nose that is perhaps just a little Mediterranean for my liking. The palate is on the richer side, with touches of baked cherry, melted tar and licorice. This is quite heady, with a creamy texture toward the finish. Compared to its peers, this Prieuré-Lichine shows the mark of vintage more than others.

DRINKING WINDOW 2029 - 2045

date of review 02/2025