2025 Lilian Ladouys (St-Estephe)

Glass-staining purple colours, this is well rounded, lovely balance, firm tannins that take on more of a bite as things climb through the palate. Structured, enjoyable, cassis and sandalwood. 30% new oak, Eric Boissenot consultant. Certified organic since 2024 vintage. 93 points

The 2025 Lilian Ladouys reveals a slightly introverted bouquet with notes of cassis and discreet oak. Medium- to full-bodied, juicy and dense, it’s built around a structuring tannic frame, concluding with a firm, long and spicy finish. It`s a blend of 61% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Petit Verdot, matured in 30% new oak. 89-91 points

The 2025 Lilian Ladouys is soft, fruity and quite pleasant. Black cherry, new leather, licorice, plum, mocha and dried herbs are front and center. Floral top notes lift the expressive finish. The 2025 is supple and tasty. It will drink well right out of the gate. 90-92 points

The 2025 Lilian Ladouys is aged in 30% new oak and is dominated by Merlot this year, with 61% of the blend compared to 20% last year. It has an open, quite generous bouquet with bright red cherry, strawberry and even light marmalade scents on the nose. Well defined, though it just needs a little more bandwidth. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, much more density than the previous vintage, gentle grip and a dab of cracked black pepper on the powdery finish. This is an able Saint-Estèphe, albeit one that needs a little more flair. 89-91 points