2025, Château Potensac, MÉDOC

Produced by the Léoville Lascases team in the Northern Médoc near to Sociando Mallet, above St Estèphe. 

37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 41% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc.

This estate is always reliable, but I was taken aback by just how good the 2025 Potensacis. It offers up aromas of dark berries, crème de cassis and iris, followed by a medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated palate with excellent density, high-quality tannins and a long, perfumed finish. The 2025 may well be the best wine ever produced at this estate. 91-93 William Kelley, Wine Advocate.

The polish and integration of fruit and tannins are very impressive, with a caressing texture and a fruity finish. It’s balanced and transparent. Brightness shines through. 94-95 James Suckling.

The 2025 Potensac has quite a flamboyant bouquet with layers of black cherry, blueberry and violet, almost Margaux-like in style, with a touch of pencil shavings underneath. The palate is medium-bodied with edgy tannins on the entry, quite powerful, good density and a muscular finish that should be tempered during its élevage plus bottle age. Long-term Potensac. Drink 2030-2050. 91-93 Neal Martin, Vinous.