As the emblematic second wine of Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Lacoste-Borie 2020 captures the irresistible appeal of great Pauillacs, balancing uprightness and sensuality. Born on the deep gravels of the Médoc, it combines the character of Cabernet Sauvignon with the suppleness of Merlot to deliver a clear expression of the terroir. The sun-drenched, precise 2020 vintage produces a wine that is approachable in its youth after a short aeration, yet capable of graceful evolution over the years. Its aromatic brightness, vivid dark fruits, spices and precious wood, is supported by a finely edged tannic frame, supple yet persistent, stretching to a straight, satisfying finish. For a refined dinner, a Sunday table or a connoisseur's gift, Lacoste-Borie 2020 offers an elegant reading of the Grand-Puy-Lacoste style, with that Bordeaux restraint that lets conversation flourish around the glass.

Blend and winemaking

True to Médoc DNA, the blend relies mainly on Cabernet Sauvignon, supported by Merlot and often a touch of Cabernet Franc depending on the vintage identity. Made from younger vines selected with the same rigor as those for the grand vin, Lacoste-Borie benefits from identical care in the winery. The grapes are carefully sorted and extractions controlled to preserve fruit brightness and textural finesse. Maturing in oak barrels, with the oak component deliberately integrated, adds notes of vanilla, warm spices and liquorice while respecting Pauillac's uprightness. The result is a well-shaped wine where structure recedes behind aromatic precision and a delicate saline finish.

Tasting notes

• Appearance: Deep ruby with purplish hints, clear brightness and sustained sheen announcing density and freshness.
• Nose: Dominant blackcurrant and blackberry, supported by black cherry, anise, a touch of vanilla and spice, notes of liquorice and refined oak perfectly integrated.
• Palate: Generous, straight attack, fine but present tannins, a fruity-spicy mid-palate, salivating freshness that energises a long, lifted and persistent finish.

Serving temperature and advice

Serve Lacoste-Borie 2020 between 16–18°C in a Bordeaux-style glass to highlight its aromatic drive and tannic precision. A short decant is recommended in its early years to soften the structure and release spicy and black-fruit aromas. In the cellar, prefer a cool, dark and vibration-free place, bottles laid on their side. This Pauillac already shows charm after aeration, but will gain in complexity over time as tannins integrate and cedar, light tobacco and truffle notes emerge subtly.

Food pairings

• Aperitifs: dried beef bites, mini mushroom puffs, Comté gougères for a savoury prelude.
• Starters: country terrine, perfect egg with cep mushrooms, lightly smoked beef tataki.
• Mains: grilled rib of beef, herb-crusted rack of lamb, roast duck, braised beef cheeks, Bordelaise sauce.
• Cheeses: aged Comté, Cantal (mid-aged), sheep's milk tomme, mature cheddar, old mimolette.
• Desserts: for enthusiasts, a lightly sweet dark chocolate dessert or spiced poached pear, served with restraint.

Occasions

Lacoste-Borie 2020 is suited to moments where balance is sought over showiness. It elegantly accompanies a carefully improvised dinner, joins a sharing Sunday table, and makes a refined gift for someone curious about the Pauillac style. Its sober bearing, length and natural balance make it a reliable companion that seeks depth and poise rather than flashiness.

• To mark a friendly occasion with a characterful Bordeaux signature.
• During a gourmet dinner where roasted meats take centre stage.
• As a starter gift to the Pauillac style, modestly priced for maximum enjoyment.

Specifications

• Name: Lacoste-Borie 2020
• Appellation: Pauillac AOC
• Type: Red wine, second wine of Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste
• Vintage: 2020
• Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
• Terroir: deep Médoc gravels, classic Pauillac expression
• Ageing: oak barrels, integrated and balanced oak
• Cellaring potential: several years depending on storage
• Serving temperature: 16–18°C
• Service: decanting recommended in youth