Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste 2021, Pauillac

Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste is a wine estate situated on a low hillock (or puy) above the village of Bages in the Pauillac region of the Médoc. Classified as a fifth growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, the Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant grand vin is known for its velvety texture and cigar box and cassis aromas. A second wine, Lacoste-Borie, is made from lots declassified from the grand vin and tends to have a higher proportion of Merlot. Aged in French oak barrels (75% new barrels each vintage) for between 16 to 18 months depending on the vintage. Expert Tasting Notes: The 2021 Grand-Puy-Lacoste is one of the vintages successes, wafting from the glass with aromas of cassis and raspberries mingled with notions of violets, rose petals, pencil shavings and cigar wrapper. Medium to full-bodied, with a deep, layered core of pure fruit framed by ripe acids and sweet tannins, its suave, charming profile means that it will offer a broad drinking window. A slightly lower percentage of new oak, with lighter toasts, is reflected in better barrel integration out of the gates. - William Kelley, Wine Advocate 94 Points 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc