Château Larcis Ducasse Avanzada 2025

Château Larcis Ducasse is a Premier Grand Cru Classé in Saint-Émilion, on the right bank of Bordeaux. Its vineyards sit on the limestone plateau and the south-facing slope below it, a mix of clay, limestone, gravel and sand laid down across the Tertiary and Quaternary eras. The clay and limestone hold water and keep ripening steady in dry years, while the south-facing aspect ripens the Merlot-led blend fully. Merlot gives the wine its plush, fleshy core and Cabernet Franc adds aromatic lift, structure and a savoury freshness. The wine is aged 18 months in barrel, where slow oxygen ingress through the oak builds and polishes the tannins while contributing cedar, vanilla and sweet spice. The colour is deep ruby. The nose shows blackberry and plum, tobacco, cedar and a fresh liquorice note. The palate is medium to full, the ripe fruit carried on fine, structured tannins and bright acidity from the limestone, finishing long and savoury. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees and decant an hour or two ahead, or cellar. It suits roast lamb and beef.