Chateau Lilian Ladouys Saint Estephe 2014

Under the ownership of Jacky Lorenzetti, president of one of France's top rugby clubs, this estate is now performing impressively. The wine is finely structured with dark tannins and tight acidity and a hint of minerality. It is Merlot dominated, although it is the 40% Cabernet Sauvignon that brings out the black-currant fruitiness. Drink from 2022.

The 2014 Lilian Ladouys 2014 has a crisp, masculine, tightly wound bouquet with blackberry, briary and cedar emerging with aeration. There is clearly prudent use of oak here, complementing rather than dominating the wine. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannin, a pleasant sous-Bois note underpinning the layers of cedary black fruit and a touch of spiciness on the finish. This comes highly recommended plus great value. Tasted February 2017.

Juicy, with good briary energy to the core of crushed plum and black currant fruit. Bay and tobacco notes fill in on the finish, adding range, though the fruit holds the upper hand easily. Best from 2018 through 2026.

The 2014 Lilian Ladouys is soft, plump and incredibly appealing. Bright red cherry, raspberry, rose petal, mint and sweet spice notes are all pushed forward. This is an absolutely delicious, joyous bottle of wine to enjoy for its primary fruit and raciness. The blend is 55 % Merlot, 40 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 4 % Cabernet Franc, and 1 % Petit Verdot. The team headed by technical director Vincent Bache-Gabrielsen and consulting winemaker Eric Boissenot continues to do impressive work at this Saint-Estèphe property. Tasted two times.