Château Lascombes 2014 is a Second Growth (2ème Grand Cru Classé) wine from the Margaux appellation in Bordeaux, France. It exhibits a deep ruby color with purple glints, showcasing a refined and elegant style typical of Margaux. The nose is expressive, offering aromas of black fruits (blackcurrant, black cherry), subtle oak, and hints of spice, vanilla, and graphite. On the palate, it is full-bodied yet balanced, with firm but silky tannins, concentrated fruit flavors, and notes of chocolate, coffee, and toasted oak. The wine is structured with a long, satisfying finish, reflecting a shift from past heavily oaked styles to a more fruit-driven, harmonious expression.
Food Pairings
Château Lascombes 2014 pairs excellently with classic meat dishes such as roast beef, lamb, veal, pork, duck, game, or grilled meats. It also complements hearty fish like tuna, mushroom-based dishes, pasta, and cheeses. For specific pairings, consider prime rib, ribeye, or filet mignon with a bordelaise sauce to balance the wine’s tannins and acidity. Asian dishes with savory elements can also work well.
Critics Review
- Wine Enthusiast (Roger Voss): “One of the largest estates in Margaux, Lascombes is now performing well. With this vintage the heavy over-oaking of past years has gone to be replaced with a wine that is full of black fruits as much as rich tannins. There is concentration and a good potential for aging. Drink from 2025.”
- General Notes: Critics note the 2014 vintage as a strong performer for Château Lascombes, with improved balance compared to earlier vintages. The reduction in oak influence allows the fruit to shine, making it a more classic Margaux with good structure and aging potential. Specific scores for 2014 are less commonly cited, but the estate’s 2010–2015 vintages often score in the 90–94 range from critics like Robert Parker and Wine Enthusiast.
Drink Window
The 2014 Château Lascombes is recommended to be drunk from 2025 onward, with a likely peak maturity between 2025 and 2035. It typically requires 7–10 years of bottle age to soften its tannins and fully express its complexity, with the potential to age well for 15–20 years or more under proper storage conditions.
Additional Notes
- Vineyard and Winemaking: The 120-hectare vineyard features gravel, clay, sand, and limestone soils, with parcels optimized for Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. The wine is aged for 18–20 months in French oak barrels (around 80% new), contributing to its structure and oak-influenced flavors.
- Vintage Context: The 2014 vintage in Bordeaux was solid, with good structure and balance, though not as exceptional as 2010 or 2015. Margaux performed well, producing elegant and age-worthy wines.
- Investment Potential: Château Lascombes 2014 is considered a good value among Second Growth wines, with potential for appreciation if stored properly.
