Les Fiefs de Lagrange Saint-Julien

While it may be the second wine of the troisieme cru classé Château Lagrange, this red blend bears a striking resemblance to its better-known sibling. Composed entirely of fruit grown in AOC Saint-Julien, this 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, and 2% Petit Verdot blend delights with purity of fruit, elegance and balance. 91/100 - The 2016 Les Fiefs de Lagrange offers blackberry, raspberry and light cedar scents on a nose that gradually unfurls in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, fine acidity, a velvety-smooth texture and some quality new oak evident on the finish, fortunately neatly integrated and simpatico with the fruit. Excellent. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting. - Neal Martin, Vinous