2025, Château Lilian Ladouys, SAINT-ESTÈPHE, Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel

2025 is 61% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petit Verdot.

Owned by the Lorenzetti family who also own 50% of Ch. d'Issan in Margaux.
The terroir is typical of St. Estephe with its gravel, clay and limestone soils.

Glass-staining purple colours, this is well rounded, lovely balance, firm tannins that take on more of a bite as things climb through the palate. Structured, enjoyable, cassis and sandalwood. 30% new oak, Eric Boissenot consultant. Certified organic since 2024 vintage.
93 Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux.

A perfumed and floral aroma. Supple and lively, a lovely relaxed cool blueberry and fresh mint aspect with bright acidity in the background, nothing tart, but lifting the frame. Quite a straight style, but really well defined, with mouthwatering acidity and such a clean and precise finish with a lick of limestone graphite and slate that is really moreish. Power but smooth and approachable. Very transparent to its terroir. Ends just so well, you want another glass straight away.
93 Georgina Hindle, Decanter.

The 2025 Lilian Ladouys is soft, fruity and quite pleasant. Black cherry, new leather, liquorice, plum, mocha and dried herbs are front and center. Floral top notes lift the expressive finish. The 2025 is supple and tasty. It will drink well right out of the gate. 2028 - 2037
90-92 Antonio Galloni, Vinous.