Larcis Ducasse 2012

This great terroir, long owned by the Gratiot family, has come to life under the inspired winemaking of Nicolas Thienpont and Stéphane Derenoncourt. Some recent vintages have been legendary efforts, especially 2005, 2008, 2009 and 2010. The 2012 (83% Merlot, 17% Cabernet Franc) is right in the competition, with an inky, opaque, bluish/purple color, gorgeously sweet, rich nose of black raspberries, black cherries and currants, and licorice. The wine hits the palate with a full-bodied, thunderous effect. This blend tips the scales at 14.5% alcohol, which is indicative of its fabulously exposed vineyard on a full, steep limestone slope with a primarily southern exposure. This is full-bodied, ripe and one of the great stars of the vintage – again. The wine has full-bodied texture, gorgeous purity, richness and length. Drink it over the next 20 years

The Larcis-Ducasse is a blend of 83% Merlot and 17% Cabernet Franc picked on 11th-18th October and 18th October respectively, cropped at 28hl/ha. The nose is very complete even at this primal stage with copious but regimented dark cherry and blackcurrant fruit - the oak seamless integrated and lending it great volume. The palate is ripe and sexy on the entry with seamless tannins and a velvety texture. It is very controlled, very focused - modern in style but filled to the brim with panache. Nothing out of place here! Very good potential. Tasted April 2013.

This shows so much class and balance with blackberry and mushroom character. Some wet earth. It makes you want to drink it! Fine and ripe tannins. Gorgeous. Drink in 2018.

Deep dark cherry colour. Fine and dry and so fresh. Feels like a breath of summer. But it is not particularly light - good length - just no excess weight. Maybe just a very slight bitterness on the finish? (JH)