The OLD BRIDGE

2000 Now Finished: Château PRIEURÉ-LICHINE, 4me Cru. Margaux

Alcohol Percentage: 13%
Area: The vineyards are widely spread across the Margaux commune. Most lie to the north of Cantenac, on a gravel ridge typical of the Médoc
Grape Variety: 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc, aged in oak for 16 months (around half new oak)
Producer: Founded by Benedictine Monks and known in the 18th century as Le Prieur de Cantenac. The vineyards were siezed and split up during the Revolution, giving rise to Pouget, Boyd Cantenac and an estate originally called Prieuré and later Prieuré-Cantenac. The property gradually deteriorated until bought by writer Alexis-Lichine for a mere £8,000.
He built it in both quality and size, gradually acquiring parcels from estates like Palmer, Brane-Cantenac, Durfort-Vivens and Giscours. He also repaired the winery and the chateau, before he died in 1989. His son, Sacha sold the property in 1999 to Ballande Group, a Canadian mining firm
Vintage: 2000 Lovely year of ripe, rounded, nicely balanced wines
Cellar Potential: 2008-2015
Old Bridge Rating: Good example of a charming vintage
Press Reviews: 91 points Wine Spectator: "A solid young red, with big, velvety tannins and lots of ripe fruit, tobacco and chocolate character. Long, fresh finish. One of the best Prieuré-Lichine in a long, long time. Best after 2007."
90 points Robert Parker: "Undeniably the finest Prieure-Lichine in 30-40 years, this textured, rich, medium to full-bodied 2000 boasts a dark ruby/purple color in addition to a knock-out nose of black cherries, cassis, tobacco leaf, cocoa, and toasty oak in the background. The wine is sweet on the attack, full-bodied, and well-textured, with oodles of fruit and glycerin. This is sexy stuff that can be drunk early, but will age gracefully for 15-16 years. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2026. Bravo!"

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