2011 Lascombes
By Chateau Lascombes
2011 Lascombes from Chateau Lascombes, Margaux, Bordeaux
Among the ornate tapestry of Bordeaux's prestigious Margaux appellation, the 2011 vintage from Chateau Lascombes presents itself as a portrayal of resilience and mastery against the backdrop of an uncharacteristically challenging year. The season was marked by climatic whimsy – from drought to heat spikes – testing the mettle of vintners across the region. Yet, through meticulous vineyard management and astute winemaking, Chateau Lascombes has sculpted a memorable wine that captures the essence of both its heritage and terroir.
Vintage Virtues: The Nuances of 2011
The 2011 vintage in Bordeaux was one of contrasts and precision. An early flowering period followed by an intense summer prolonged the ripening, necessitating judicious harvesting times. The resultant wine from Chateau Lascombes benefitted from this selectivity, embodying the grace of Margaux with an additional backbone of structure not always prevalent in this opulent appellation.
The 2011 Lascombes articulates its narrative through a bouquet where dark cherries and blackcurrants woven with hints of violet give way to complex secondary notes of tobacco and a wisp of cedar, unearthing the storied commingling of fruit and oak that is often sought yet seldom perfected.
An Exemplar for the Discerning Investor
In the glass, the wine's deep ruby hue surrenders to a palate where elegance meets fortitude; plush tannins are balanced by a vibrant acidity ensuring that this vintage is entering a splendid window for enjoyment or could be poised to embellish any discerning collector’s portfolio. Amidst the broader strokes painted by Bordeaux's monumental years, the finesse and poise of 2011 Lascombes pay homage to its skilled creators and to an estate that consistently surmounts the capricious nature of vintage variation with class.
As investors seek out Bordeaux vintages with both provenance and potential for maturation, this offering from Chateau Lascombes undoubtedly merits consideration. The 2011 Lascombes offers ample proof that judicious investment in well-crafted wines can lead to remarkable drinking experiences and potential auspicious returns.
Market price (CAD)
$870.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
40.77
Scores and tasting notes
This large, fragmented estate must be a logistical nightmare for winemakers, but the 2011, a blend of 55% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot, exhibits a beautifully scented nose of spring flowers, black raspberries, black currants, graphite and forest floor. Medium to full-bodied and rich with supple tannins, this terrific example of Lascombes continues their qualitative revolution that began over 15 years ago. One of the stars of the vintage, this beauty can be consumed over the next 20-25 years.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 April 2014
This large, fragmented estate must be a logistical nightmare for winemakers, but the 2011, a blend of 55% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot, exhibits a beautifully scented nose of spring flowers, black raspberries, black currants, graphite and forest floor. Medium to full-bodied and rich with supple tannins, this terrific example of Lascombes continues their qualitative revolution that began over 15 years ago. One of the stars of the vintage, this beauty can be consumed over the next 20-25 years.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #212 Apr 2014
A brightness and beauty to this wine, with mineral, berry and dark-chocolate character. Full body but reserved and integrated. Very fine for the vintage. Better than from barrel. Try in 2018.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com, February 19th 2014
The sample of Lascombes (50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot) has a dusty nose that is lacking clarity although it clears up with aeration, although there remains a vegetal tincture. The palate is sweet and chewy on the entry. Grippy tannins, quite dense and masculine, it is missing some finesse towards the finish. Tasted April 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2012