2021 Château Larcis Ducasse Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classé

The total surface of the vineyard of Larcis-Ducasse is 11.15 ha of which 9.80 ha is in use. The planting density is 6,000 vines/ha and this will be increased to 8,888 after replanting. It is a common idea that a higher planting density is intended to produce more, but this is not the case. Due to the high planting density, the yield per plant is much lower and the plant is forced by the 'competition' to root deeper. This mainly benefits the quality and certainly not the quantity. This Larcis-Ducasse is a Merlot driven Saint Emilion Grand Cru Classé (approx. 88%) supplemented with Cabernet Franc. The wine ages for 16 to 18 months in French oak barrels of which 55% new and 45% 1st year.

Elegant, layered and pure terroir expression from a challenging vintage

The 2021 Château Larcis Ducasse shows how great terroir and craftsmanship can be expressed even in cool years. From the south-facing slopes of the famous Côte Pavie in Saint-Émilion, this wine beautifully expresses the finesse and freshness of the vintage.

In the glass, an inviting bouquet of ripe red cherries, blueberries, iris, and subtle graphite tones presents itself. Underneath lies a core of wet limestone, so typical of this unique terroir. With some time in the glass, nuances of violets, mint and a hint of cedar wood also emerge.

The palate is medium to full-bodied, with a refined structure and energetic acidity that gives the wine liveliness and precision. The tannins are silky but present, beautifully woven into the whole. What makes this vintage truly special is the delicate balance between intensity and elegance – a wine that seduces rather than overwhelms.

The finish is long, mineral and layered, with a nice tension that makes you long for the next sip. Although it already shows charm, this wine certainly has the potential to develop even more depth and complexity with a few years of bottle aging. Not for nothing has always been one of the great favorites of JP Moueix, aka "the nose".