2017 Ch Larcis-Ducasse, St Emilion

Very dark with purple rim. Oozes elegance on the nose, subtle dark fruit, nicely dusty/mineral and a touch of graphite and a slight and attractive herbaceous note. More fragrant with air. Texture is fine like layers of paper, tannins are dry and refined. Lightness of touch but really persistent. Juicy, gentle. Very lovely, the graphite elegance, freshness and fruit go on to the end. Drink 2027-2040

17.5 Julia Harding MW JancisRobinson.com

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The 2017 Larcis-Ducasse was cropped at 34hl/ha from 18 to 29 September for the Merlot and 29 September to 2 October for the Cabernet Franc. It has a very high-toned, iodine-tinged bouquet that just lacks the usual harmony, and certainly the cohesion that I discerned apropos the 2015 and 2016 vintages at this early stage. The palate is underpinned by fine tannin and here demonstrates much more harmony than the aromatics. The black fruit is flecked by black pepper and subtle fennel notes, the tannins are quite fine and the finish is much more linear and stricter than recent vintages. It is a more classically styled Larcis-Ducasse this year but it should age well. I expect it will land towards the upper end of my banded score. Score: 91/93 Neal Martin, vinous.com

A very pretty and structured red with blackberries, blueberries and hints of limestone character. Medium to full body, solid tannins and a real freshness underneath. Long and flavorful.

The 2017 Larcis Ducasse is a rich, sensual wine, with softer contours and more plushness than is typically the case, part of which is attributable to the vintage and part of which is the result of gentler winemaking. Dark red cherry and plum fruit is nicely pushed forward in this succulent, racy Saint-Émilion. Mocha, licorice and menthol wrap around the juicy, pliant finish. The 2017 is an especially succulent, racy Larcis. It has been consistently brilliant on the four occasions I have tasted it so far.