Chateau Lascombes 2004

Winery Background and History

Château Lascombes, situated in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, France, boasts a storied history dating back to the 17th century. Its namesake, Chevalier de Lascombes, born in 1625, was the estate’s first proprietor. The property features a 17th-century chartreuse and a château constructed in the 19th century, reflecting its rich heritage. Classified as a Second Growth (Deuxième Grand Cru Classé) in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, Château Lascombes has long been recognized for producing wines of exceptional quality. The estate encompasses approximately 118 hectares of vineyards, planted predominantly with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot. Over the years, Château Lascombes has undergone various ownership changes, with each proprietor contributing to its legacy and commitment to excellence.

Producer and Winemaker

As of the 2004 vintage, Château Lascombes was under the ownership of the American investment firm Colony Capital, which acquired the estate in 2001. The winemaking team, led by experienced professionals dedicated to upholding the château’s esteemed reputation, focused on combining traditional methods with modern techniques to enhance wine quality. Their collective expertise ensured that the wines produced during this period were reflective of the Margaux terroir’s elegance and complexity.

Vineyards and Microclimate

Château Lascombes’ vineyards span approximately 118 hectares within the Margaux appellation. The estate benefits from a diverse terroir, with gravelly soils ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon and clay-limestone soils suited for Merlot. This combination allows for the cultivation of grape varieties that contribute to the complexity and balance of the wines. The proximity to the Gironde estuary moderates temperatures, reducing the risk of frost and promoting a favorable microclimate for vine growth. The region’s temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers, ensures a long growing season, allowing grapes to achieve optimal ripeness. The vineyard’s meticulous management, including practices such as canopy management and controlled yields, further enhances the quality of the fruit produced.

Grape Varietals

The 2004 Château Lascombes is a blend of approximately 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Petit Verdot.

Vinification and Aging Methods

The vinification process at Château Lascombes involves meticulous sorting of the grapes to ensure only the highest quality fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, allowing for precise management of fermentation kinetics. Post-fermentation, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation to soften acidity and enhance mouthfeel. Aging is conducted in French oak barrels, with a significant portion being new oak, imparting subtle flavors and contributing to the wine’s structure. The duration of barrel aging varies depending on the vintage characteristics but typically spans 18 to 20 months. Throughout this period, the wine is regularly monitored and racked to achieve clarity and stability before bottling.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The 2004 Château Lascombes has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of approximately 13%.

Tasting Notes

The 2004 Château Lascombes exhibits a deep ruby/purple hue, indicative of its concentration. The nose is expressive, offering aromas of plums, cassis, black cherries, and floral notes. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with a textured and layered mid-palate. Flavors of ripe black fruits are complemented by hints of smoke and spring flowers. The finish is pure, with well-integrated wood, acidity, alcohol, and tannin, showcasing precision and power.

Food and Wine Pairing

The 2004 Château Lascombes pairs well with a variety of dishes. Its rich fruit profile and structured tannins complement roasted meats such as lamb or beef. Additionally, it pairs nicely with game birds like pheasant or duck. For a vegetarian option, consider dishes featuring earthy mushrooms or lentils, which harmonize with the wine’s depth and complexity. Cheese selections such as aged Gouda or Comté also make excellent accompaniments.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the 2004 Château Lascombes, it is recommended to serve the wine at a temperature between 17 to 18°C (63 to 64°F). Decanting the wine for about an hour before serving can help in expressing its aromatic complexity and soften the tannins, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2004 Château Lascombes has demonstrated the ability to age gracefully. Proper cellaring conditions—consistent temperature around 12°C (54°F), with appropriate humidity levels and minimal light exposure—can further preserve its quality. While it is enjoyable now, the wine has the potential to develop additional complexity with further aging.

Scores

• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 93 points