"Since arriving in 2009, Marjolaine de Coninck has resurrected this estate, and the wines now play with the top in the appellation."- Jeb Dunnuck
Bordeaux remains arguably the greatest hotbed of collectible value in the world of fine wine, and at the forefront of that trend the past decade has been Margaux's Chateau Labegorce. Since 2015, this dynamic estate has been outpacing its station in the quality and price heirarchies, delivering exceptional, cellar-worthy character and style at prices that allow Bordeaux collectors of all stripes to line their cellars.
Today's mini-vertical showcases the past decade at this insider's favorite in all its glory, with stellar acclaimed renditions from five benchmark vintages. Consistent praise has followed the 2016 sinceen primeur, "afabulously textured Margaux" that shines in a modern classic vintage, while the 2018 "exudes elegance and class" according to Dunnuck. The 2019 and 2020 renditions round out the "trifecta" in fine form, each vintage expressing the full character of this lauded trio. Finally, the double 95-point 2022 just confirms that the estate is here to day among the elite of the appellation, a resounding triumph that still maintains the brilliant value this dynamic property has come to symbolize among Bordeaux's savviest collectors.
Whether you're building a mini-vertical of your own or your just looking for a new surefire Left Bank winner that you can enjoy with abandon, this selection has it and then some.
The 2018 Château Labegorce is a perfumed, already complex Margaux based on 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Its medium ruby hue gives way to lovely notes of blueberries, raspberries, flowers, sandalwood, and assorted baking spice cabinet-like nuances. Medium to full-bodied, with beautifully pure fruit and silky tannins, it's a wine that grows on you with time in the glass. It's not a blockbuster, but it exudes elegance and class as well as balance. Enjoy bottles any time over the coming 20-25 years or more.
94 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Mar 2021)
The 2018 Labégorce is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. It has 14% alcohol. Deep garnet-purple colored, it leaps from the glass with a beautiful perfume of kirsch, black cherry compote and cassis, plus hints of licorice, lilacs and baking spices. The medium-bodied palate is elegantly played with soft tannins and compelling freshness supporting the fragrant red and black fruits, finishing on a spicy note.
93 points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate (Mar 2021)
The 2018 Labégorce is a plump, juicy Margaux that will drink well right out of the gate. Succulent dark cherry, plum, spice, licorice, chocolate and new French oak are all kicked up in this decidedly opulent, heady Margaux. Soft curves and pliant fruit add to its raciness. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.
93 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Mar 2021)
Rich blackberry and fig fruits, well structured dominant tannins that remain fairly tight at this point, exuberant turmeric, black pepper and dried herbs, with a flash of heat on the finish. Atypical in the lineup, reflecting the heat of the vintage, but a ton of pleasure to be found here. 33% new oak. Harvest September 20 to October 15, technical director Marjolaine de Coninck.
93 points, Jane Anson (Mar 2023)
Strong grilled oak on the nose that will settle down but definitely needs time. Black fruit comes through on the palate, and a ton of juice that is shot through the fruit and helps the entire thing to power along enjoyably. Good-quality.
93 points, Decanter (Nov 2020)
Silky and refined in feel, with perfumy black currant paste, plum reduction and blackberry compote notes forming the core while sandalwood, black tea and cedar accents drape the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2022 through 2034. 9,000 cases made.
92 points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator (Mar 2021)
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