Chateau Prieure Lichine 2012 (RP91)

By Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 91

Wine Enthusiast 91

Very structured and dark, this is a wine for the long haul. It is concentrated and balanced, still very young and only just hinting at the black fruits that show the rich potential of this wine. Drink from 2020.

James Suckling 91

A wine with blackberry, spice and licorice character. Medium to full body, firm tannins and a fruity finish. Subtle and fine. Shows class. Lovely tannins. Drink in 2016.

Decanter 93

This is deep, rich and pretty full-on for the vintage. I can see the ambition here, although it's a little austere right now and still needs time. Cassis and bilberry fruits are tightly buttoned down, but there is excellent potential, and it's showing better than the 2011. This was the year when they bought the 8ha Château Pontet Chappaz, providing additional Cabernet Sauvignon from excellent gravelly terroir for the grand vin, and the impact is clear. Last time I tasted these two vintages side by side, I gave them both 91, but the 2012 is really starting to blossom. 50% new oak.