Grapes have been grown at Chateau Lagrange, St.-Julien, for over 600 years. A Third Growth in the Classification of 1855, it is the largest classified growth in the Medoc with 113 hectares under vine. It was acquired in 1983 by Suntory, the Japanese wine and spirits conglomerate, which has spared no effort or expense in extensively replanting and renovating the estate. The property is planted with 65 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 28 percent Merlot and 7 percent Petit Verdot. Chateau Lagrange has one of the larges plantings of Petit Verdot in Bordeaux, and often uses more of this grape variety in the blend than other chateaux. Today, Chateau Lagrange is under the direction of winemaker Bruno Eynard, who has been at the estate since 1990.

It has a very perfumed and complex bouquet with marmalade-tinged red fruit, cedar and touches of tobacco. The palate is medium-bodied with supple, ripe and succulent tannins on the entry, counterbalanced by well-judged acidity and a gorgeous, irresistible, sensual finish that washes serenely across the mouth. Is it the best Lagrange to date? Quite possibly.

Great with a steak, beef ragout, strong flavour complex dishes.

Big and powerful, we love this wine.