Prieuré Lichine has done a great job of capturing the rich concentration in the cassis and blackberry fruits that are easily found in 2018, wrapped up perfectly in juicy, vibrant strands of acidity and tannin. There's no question that this is an intense wine, and although the alcohol is not especially high it has a generous texture. Spice notes lend a sense of uplift to balance out the exuberance of the palate. I expect this will close down for a good few years before coming into its own. Prieuré Lichine operate a gravity-fed winery for gentle handling of the fruit. 2018 saw a yield of 35hl/ha. Aged in 45% new oak. Read more at https://www.decanter.com/wine-reviews/france/bordeaux/chateau-prieure-lichine-margaux-4eme-cru-classe-2018-29292#2OLZIU0JV3KQvLg8.99

Blackberry with white-pepper and some tile undertones on the nose. It’s full-bodied with tight, chewy tannins yet so beautifully polished and composed. Lingering finish. This needs time to soften and come together. Best after 2024.

Black, red and blue fruit, smoke, espresso and herbs connect in the nose. The wine is rich, concentrated, lush, round and polished. The fruit is ripe, dark, expressive and comes accompanied by coffee bean, licorice and dark cocoa nuances on the mid-palate and in the finish. Read more at:https://www.thewinecellarinsider.com/wine-tasting-note/?vintage=2018&wine=Chateau%20Prieure-Lichine

The 2018 Château Prieure-Lichine is terrific and certainly a step up over past vintages. Pure black and blue fruits, spring flowers, violets, and cedarwood notes all emerge from the glass, and it's medium to full-bodied, elegant and nicely focused on the palate, with a solid sense of freshness and purity. With moderate tannins, terrific overall balance, and outstanding length, it's a beautiful wine. It already offers pleasure with a decant yet should hit prime time in 4-5 years and keep for 15-20 years. The blend is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot, brought up in 45% new French oak.

Powerful tannins, this is young, with depth and clear ripeness to the tannins, touches of chocolate, brioche, creamy smoked toffee and cocoa. A burst of heat throws things off on the finish, saved by a eucalyptus edge that brings in freshness and grip. 45% new oak, Stephane Dernenoncourt consultant, 39hl/h yield, harvest September 24 to October 10.

The 2018 Prieure-Lichine has a deep garnet purple color. It opens with notes of stewed plums and crème de cassis, laced with cedar and Indian spices, leading to notes of sassafras and chargrill. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is rich and jam-packed with velvety tannins and soft acidity, finishing just a tad warm.

Very bright up front, with lots of floral lift leading the way while the core of warmed cassis and steeped plum tags along behind. Smoldering feel on the finish, with dark tea and sandalwood accents filling in. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2022 through 2032. – JM

The medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2018 Prieure-Lichine sings of black raspberries, kirsch and fresh red and black currants, followed by hints of powdered cinnamon, lilacs and bouquet garni. The medium-bodied palate is delicately played with bags of freshness and a soft texture framing the red berry and spicy layers, finishing with an herbal lift. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown