2014 Larcis Ducasse (St-Emilion)

Even in a slightly cool year, this wine musters its solar style. Fruity, subtle and fresh on the nose. Full and succulent on the palate, just a little austere, but vigorous and long with a taste of cherry, softened tannins and a general southern touch. 92 points

The Château Larcis-Ducasses is a blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc cropped at 37.5 hectoliter per hectare between 1 and 14 October. It has a strangely “distant” nose that is difficult to engage with at first, then a wave of super-ripe crème de cassis and blueberry fruit whose purity cannot be denied. The palate is full-bodied with soft ripe tannins, plush in the mouth with well-judged acidity, a touch of mineralité on the finish. Again, this is a modern style of Saint Emilion delivered with oodles of panache. This will be no more, no less than "delicious". 91-93 points