Labegorce 2017 (375ML)

93 JD / 93 VM / 92 JS / 92 WS / 92 DE / 92 WCI / 91 WE / 16+ JR

Under the helm of Marjolaine de Coninck, who arrived from Fonplegade in 2009, this estate has been firing on all cylinders, and they've made a beautiful 2017 Chateau Labegorce. Based on 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot that spent 14 months in 45% new oak, its deep purple/plum color is followed by a complex, medium to full-bodied, seamless Margaux that has complexity as well as depth and richness. With lots of cassis fruit and notes of sandalwood and spice, they’ve done a fabulous job with the tannins, and it has a great mid-palate and outstanding purity. You’d be excused for drinking bottles today, yet it should benefit from short-term cellaring and evolve for 15 years. This estate covers 65 hectares (there are 53 hectares under vine) located just north of the town of Margaux, on the plateau just across the road from Lascombes. If you haven’t tried these wines in a while, now is an excellent time to give them another look. Jeb Dunnuck

The 2017 Labégorce is powerful yet nuanced, and wonderfully complete. Cedar, tobacco, mint, dried herbs and licorice grace this wine of tremendous complexity. While it is towering in its size, richness and intensity, the 2017 is also surprisingly elegant. Creamy, ample and flavorful, this is a very good wine with rather pretty floral notes that grace the exquisite finish.- Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

This has a swathe of very attractive plums and ripe red berries on offer. The palate has a very fresh array of fine tannins. Smooth and easy with a rich, deep-set drive to the finish. Drink or hold. - James Suckling

Ripe and stylish, featuring dark plum and blackberry compote flavors, infused with singed alder and tobacco notes. The fine-grained finish has nice flow. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2032. - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator

An excellent Labegorce, full of rich black fruits, textured and layered. A great success in the vintage, with a mouthwatering delivery that holds itself with confidence. It's not hugely intense, as is often the case this year, but makes up for it with a poised delivery and firm, juicy tannins. Jane Anson, Decanter

This is a wood-laden, spicy wine. It seems as though the wood has taken precedence over the fruit, giving the tannins prominence. While it will soften, the wine's dryness will stay. Drink from 2024. - Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast