Larcis Ducasse 2021 (750ML)

On a south-facing hillside just outside the town of Saint-Émilion, Larcis Ducasse grows on soils that run slightly heavier in clay, which tends to give the wine density. In 2021 the Merlot came in between September 29 and October 9 and the Cabernet Franc from October 9 to 11, at 34 hectoliters per hectare. The blend is 86% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc, fermented as whole berries in cement tanks and aged in 50% new French oak, the rest in second- and third-fill barrels. This year shows a leaner, more linear side of the estate than hot years do: red and black currant, plum, tobacco, iron and forest floor, a peppery edge, a salty note and firm, ripe tannin. Critics look for it to come around from the late 2020s and hold into the 2040s. Open it with braised short ribs, venison stew or truffled potatoes.