2018 Le Murmure de Larcis-Ducasse Saint Emilion Grand Cru

***Pre-Arrival: ETA November, 2024***

Château Larcis Ducasse is just a stone's throw away from the city of St-Emilion. The estate was established in the 17th century, it has been in the esteemed Gratiot-Attmane family's possession since 1893.

In 2002, the management was entrusted to the dynamic duo of Nicols Thienpont and David Suire, with guidance from legendary winemakers Stéphane Derenoncourt and Julien Lavenu. Derenoncourt is one of France's premier wine consultants. His clients include Domaine de Chevalier, Clos Fourtet, Clos de l'Oratoire, Chateau Pavie-Macquin, Canon-la-Gaffeliere, Smith Haut Lafitte, Brown, as well as Francis Ford Coppola's Rubicon Estate in Napa.

In 2012, Château Larcis Ducasse was rightfully promoted to Premier Grand Cru Classé during the esteemed 6th Saint-Emilion classification. This recognition solidifies their commitment to producing wines of unrivaled quality and distinction.

The estate is located in the mythical "Grand Côte" and the limestone promontory that majestically overlooks the Dordogne valley, where the vineyard's southern exposure bathes the vines in sunlight. This estate is commonly known as “the King of Merlot.”

Considering the wines are Gran Cru, there are specific rules Château Larcis Ducasse has to adhere to, only to ensure the highest quality is upheld. These regulations include limitations on how many bottles they can produce, ensuring grapes reach optimal ripeness before harvest, ensuring a minimum alcohol content, and ensuring extended aging periods before release. The result? Superb wines - including the 2018 Le Murmure de Larcis-Ducasse Saint-Emilion Grand Cru.

Since 2010, Murmure has been made in small batches with great care. This blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc reflects its prestigious vineyard, much like Chateau Larcis Ducasse. Imagine the gentle sounds of a hillside stream and whispering winds as you enjoy the winemaker's passion. 

2018 was an amazing year for Bordeaux. “The wines tend to be rich in fruit, softer in mouthfeel with less tannin and acid,” writes Decanter. Vinous Media gave this vintage a stunning 96 Point review, stating, “The 2018 Right Bank wines are opulent, flamboyant reds. It is a very strong vintage that falls just short of being truly epic.”

Aging: 16 to 18 months in French oak barrels, 70% of which are new.

99% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc. The marriage between the Merlot and the Cabernet Franc, carefully allocated, magnifying the balance and the character of the aromas and the tannins of this wine, finely worked as with lace. Murmure rapidly develops aromas of blackberry, cherry, and red fruit.  This intense fruitiness and the presence of spicy notes offers a second wine that is full of pleasure and conviviality.

Blackberries and blueberries with some raspberry, herbal and moss notes on the nose. It’s full-bodied with elegant tannins. Juicy and fleshy texture on the palate. Savory. Such balance.Flavorful finish. Blend of 99% merlot and 1% cabernet franc. Try after 2025. ~95 James Suckling

Almost entirely Merlot, this second wine of Larcis Ducasse is juicy and jammy. Its structure is firm with great black fruits and spice. The wine, still packed with tannins, is likely to be ready from 2025. ~92 Wine Enthusiast

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