2020 Ch Lilian Ladouys, St-Estephe

This estate continues to deliver the goods, and the 2020 Château Lilian Ladouys is another smoking wine readers will love. Lots of ripe black fruits, tobacco leaf, chocolate, and damp earth give way to a medium to full-bodied, nicely concentrated, textured, beautifully balanced red that will drink well for 20 years or more.

92-94 points Jeb Dunnuck

A very pretty, medium-bodied wine with fine tannins, lovely fruit and a creamy finish. Nicely integrated for the vintage in this appellation.

92-93 points James Suckling May 2021

Château Lilian Ladouys has emerged as one of Saint Estèphe's great modern success stories. Since joining the Lorenzetti family portfolio, the historic estate has undergone an extraordinary transformation, with meticulous vineyard investment and sensitive winemaking elevating its reputation for producing Cabernet led Bordeaux of outstanding quality and value.

Situated on the gravel and clay soils of Saint Estèphe, the vineyards benefit from the Gironde Estuary's moderating influence, allowing Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to ripen slowly while retaining freshness and structure. The excellent 2020 vintage produced wines of superb concentration and balance, capturing the appellation's trademark power, savoury character and remarkable ageing potential.

The colour is a deep garnet with youthful purple highlights. Aromas of cassis, blackberry and black cherry are complemented by cedar, graphite, violets and subtle cigar box notes. The palate is poised and beautifully structured, combining concentrated black fruits with polished tannins and vibrant acidity. Layers of dark chocolate, liquorice and mineral complexity unfold through a long, refined finish that reflects the pedigree of this outstanding Saint Estèphe.

A magnificent partner for roast lamb, dry aged rib eye, beef Wellington or wild mushroom pithivier with black garlic. Enjoy with a generous decant today or cellar confidently through the late 2030s as further complexity develops.