Saint-Julien 3° Grand Cru Classé 2011 - MAGNUM - Parker 86

Winemaker and vineyard : Located on two Günzian gravelly rises, one of which is the highest point of the appellation, the estate of Château Lagrange extends over 118 hectares in one piece. 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot represent our grape variety, divided into more than 100 individual plots. Our vines are on average 40 years old and the oldest dates from 1952. 11 hectares are also dedicated to the production of white wine, i.e. 80% Sauvignon blanc, 10% Sauvignon gris and 10% Sémillon. 17 different soils and subsoils have been identified, thus allowing the grape varieties and rootstocks to be adapted to the terroirs, and to push the approach of a tailor-made viticulture, plot by plot, in order to best express its character.

Tasting : Slightly pinched and compact, the 2011 Lagrange exhibits a healthy dark ruby/plum color as well as notes of vanillin, black cherries and red fruits, but it is somewhat one-dimensional and straightforward. Solidly made, but not as expressive as some of its peers, it will benefit from 1-3 years of bottle age, and should keep for 10-12 thereafter. robertparker.com (04.30.2014)

Service : Serve at room temperature (16-18°C) to accompany Pata Negra stuffed morels.