Château Prieuré-Lichine Margaux 2025 - 4ème Grand Cru Classé (Primeurs)

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

With a complex portfolio of vineyards spread across different sectors of the appellation, this cru is gradually becoming a benchmark for attentive observers. The new winemaking facility allows for plot-by-plot vinification, giving each plot its due, 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 finesse and elegance one would expect, in a style that is immediately apparent, and prices remain reasonable.

Decanter

About the wine:

Very fragrant and aromatic, with notes of violets and ripe wild berries on the nose—a very inviting bouquet. Ripe, velvety fruit, with tannins that have the texture of crumpled velvet, filling the mouth and lending it fullness and body. Yet the acidity maintains a lovely fluidity from start to finish. Beautiful structure, where everything is in its place. The tannins still need to soften, but this wine is approachable, charming, and full-bodied—and very fresh as well. More blue berries than black ones. Cola, licorice, and oyster shell. Aged for 18 months, 30% in new barrels, 70% in one-year-old barrels. 2030–2045

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 called Prieuré-Cantenac)—to Alexis Lichine. This famous American-Russian wine owner and merchant, nicknamed the “Pope of Wine” and author of an *Encyclopedia of Wines and Spirits from All Countries* that long served as a standard 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 winemaker took office in 2013, we have seen very noticeable progress. 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:

Well-structured, textured, and velvety, with aromas of red currant, aromatic herbs, and baking spices on the nose. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins. A refined texture that is both robust and harmonious. A concentrated and lingering finish. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot.

Yves Beck

About the wine:

The bouquet stands out for its depth, rich complexity, and freshness. Notes of Sichuan pepper mingle with aromas of blackberries and cinnamon, complemented by a floral touch. The creamy texture of the attack gives way to a dense, linear Prieuré-Lichine, driven by creamy, velvety tannins that nevertheless have depth and are supported by acidity that lends them a welcome freshness. I’ve been tasting Prieuré-Lichine for over 20 years—often very well, in fact—but I’ve never tasted it like this. It surprises… and wins me over! 2030–2050

Tastingbook - Markus Del Monego

About the wine:

Deep purple color with violet highlights and a black core. A rich nose with aromas of ripe fruit, blackberries, wild blackberries, and a hint of blackcurrant. Subtle woody notes and sweet spices. On the palate, a beautiful balance between elegance and freshness, with ripe tannins and delicate acidity, ripe fruit and sweet spices, and a very compelling finish.