Château Lagrange 2025

Chateau Lagrange is one of the larger classified estates of Saint-Julien, a commune in the Medoc on the left bank of Bordeaux known for balance between the power of Pauillac and the finesse of Margaux. The 2025 is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot, the classic Medoc trio. Saint-Julien's deep gravel soils, laid down over clay and limestone, drain freely and store daytime heat, helping Cabernet Sauvignon ripen its tannins fully while the gravel's stress on the vine concentrates the fruit. The Gironde estuary moderates the climate and reduces frost and extreme heat. After fermentation the wine ages 21 months in French oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange polishes the tannins and adds cedar, spice and structure. In the glass it shows a deep colour and a nose of blackcurrant, blackberry and violet over fine oak, tobacco and cocoa. The palate is structured and elegant, with firm, ripe tannin, fresh acidity and a long savoury finish built for the cellar. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted well ahead, ideally after several years of bottle age. It is a classic partner for lamb and beef.