Confidences de Prieuré-Lichine Margaux 2016 - Second Vin

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

With a complex portfolio of vineyards spread across various sectors of the appellation, this estate is gradually becoming a benchmark for discerning wine enthusiasts. The new fermentation facility allows for plot-by-plot vinification, giving each its own chance, and the viticultural choices inspired by the estate’s consultant, Stéphane Derenoncourt, account for the quality of the latest harvests. The wine possesses all the expected finesse and grace, in a form that is immediately apparent, and prices remain reasonable.

Decanter

About the wine:

This wine is rich in black fruit flavors, which are preserved in the cellar through careful pumping over and short maceration periods at a maximum temperature of 26°C. The grapes come from a wide range of sites, which allows winemaker Stéphane Derenoncourt to vinify them separately and blend them after aging—thus preserving the subtle identity of each in the final wine. Bottled in May 2018. 2020–2028

Guide Hachette des vins

About the estate:

Founded by the monks of Vertheuil Abbey, the former Saint-Didier de Cantenac priory produced a wine that was already renowned during the Ancien Régime. But it owes its fame—and its current name (the estate was then known as Prieuré-Cantenac)—to Alexis Lichine. This famous American-Russian owner and wine merchant, nicknamed the “wine pope” and author of an *Encyclopedia of Wines and Spirits from All Countries* that served as a long-standing reference, acquired the estate in 1951 and revived it. Owned by the Bordeaux-based Ballande group since 1999, it comprises 80 hectares of vineyards located in the heart of the Cantenac-Margaux plateau. Étienne Charrier has been in charge of technical management since 2009.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the estate:

The estate has been owned by the Ballande Group, based in New Caledonia, since 1999. Since the new winery began operations in 2013, we have seen significant improvements. The wines, which sometimes lacked body and depth compared to the best, have become much more full-bodied. This new ambition and the resources that were allocated were necessary. The reasonable prices make this a great deal for wine lovers.

James Suckling

About the wine:

The red fruit aromas are very appealing here, with plenty of raspberries, blackberries, and redcurrants. The palate is delightfully juicy and succulent, featuring red berries and a crisp, lively finish. The second wine of Château Prieuré-Lichine. Best enjoyed starting in 2023.