One of Saint-Estèphe's most notable signatures, the Château Lilian Ladouys 2019 stands out as a wine of character among the Médoc's fine productions. Classified Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel, it combines precise fruit expression, finely chiselled texture and attention to detail. Sourced from a large 80-hectare estate and crafted with artisanal care, this 2019 delivers a contemporary reading of the appellation that is both generous and controlled. Hand-harvested, double-sorted and then aged for 15 months in barrels, 30% of which are new, the wine refines its material and reveals an unobtrusive elegance. Generous yet disciplined, this wine at 13.5% alcohol is aimed at enthusiasts seeking a poised Bordeaux, promising in the cellar and immediately appealing with an intense bouquet of black fruit, vibrant spices and a finish recalling dark coffee. Praised by critics, it asserts its stature both at the table and for careful ageing.

Assemblage et vinification

The 2019 shows a harmonious blend, dominated by Merlot (59%), complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon (37%), Petit Verdot (3%) and Cabernet Franc (1%). The harvest is hand-picked with a double sorting, ensuring meticulous selection of the grapes. Vinification aims for aromatic clarity and textural depth, without excessive oak influence, thanks to a 15-month barrel ageing with 30% new oak. This subtle patina preserves the fruit's vibrancy while providing a backbone to the tannins, which are firm yet polished. The final balance, marked by a mouthwatering freshness and persistent length, reflects meticulous work where every technical choice highlights the nobility of the Saint-Estèphe AOP appellation and the stylistic ambition of a Cru that cultivates finesse and density.

Notes de dégustation

• Appearance: Deep garnet with purplish highlights, bright and concentrated, indicating precise extraction and fine concentration.
• Nose: Intense bouquet of black cherry, blackcurrant and blackberry, woven with floral nuances, gentle spices and a menthol touch. On aeration, notes of cocoa bean and delicate roast emerge.
• Palate: Broad, deep attack with a fleshy texture supported by firm but finely wrapped tannins. The savory mid-palate reveals flavours of black coffee, chocolate and spices in a precise, persistent drive, promising superb development.

Température de service et conseils

Serve at 17–18°C in large-stemmed glasses to enhance the bouquet and length. When young, decanting can help the wine open up and soften its tannins, depending on your preference. Its cellaring potential of 10 to 15 years allows for an optimal tasting between 2026 and 2044. Store bottles in a cool cellar away from light and vibrations to favour harmony between fruit, structure and tertiary complexity.

Accords mets et vin

• Starters: fine charcuterie, duck rillettes, spiced dried beef shavings.
• Entrées: game pâté en croûte, soft-cooked egg with cep mushrooms, hand-cut beef tartare with hazelnut oil.
• Main courses: dry-aged rib of beef, roasted rack of lamb with thyme, braised chuck, lacquered pigeon with spices.
• Cheeses: aged comté, salers, extra-mature mimolette, matured sheep’s tomme.
• Desserts: low-sugar dark chocolate ganache, pear poached in cocoa—pair sparingly.

Moments de dégustation

Château Lilian Ladouys 2019 is the ideal companion:

• For a gourmet dinner where conversation follows the rhythm of a great Bordeaux.
• At a Sunday roast featuring roasted meat and seasonal sides.
• As an insider’s gift for a fine wine lover who appreciates age-worthy, characterful wines.

Caractéristiques

• Name: Château Lilian Ladouys 2019
• Appellation: Saint-Estèphe AOP, Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel
• Type: Red wine
• Vintage: 2019
• Grape varieties: Merlot 59%, Cabernet Sauvignon 37%, Petit Verdot 3%, Cabernet Franc 1%
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• Ageing: 15 months in barrels, 30% new oak
• Volume: According to format available on Louvins.fr
• Cellaring: 10 to 15 years, ideal between 2026 and 2044
• Serving temperature: 17–18°C