2021 Croix de Labrie
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Tasting notes
Tasted blind. Rich and dense start and then very dry, uncompromising classic-claret finish. Interesting contrast with the style of the previous wine tasted (Les Grandes Murailles) which is not fighting the vintage character. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
Up there with the top wines of the vintage, the 2021 Château Croix De Labrie boasts an incredible, medium to full-bodied, concentrated style that brings more fruit, texture, and richness than just about every other wine. Cassis, spicy oak, tobacco leaf, and chocolaty notes all emerge from the glass, and it has terrific purity, a deep, layered mid-palate and mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. I love it even today, yet I see no reason it shouldn't evolve gracefully for 15+ years if well stored. The blend is 90% Merlot and 5% each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, raised in 60% new barrels.
The 2021 Croix de Labrie has more fruit concentration that some of its peers on the nose, maybe needing some more clarity but nonetheless perfumed and floral. The palate is sweet on the entry with pliant tannins and fine depth, lightly spiced toward a finish that is just a tad too glossy for my preference, although a second bottle demonstrates more precision and refinement. It remains a success considering the vintage.
The 2021 Croix de Labrie turned out well—better than I expected, actually. A burst of dark cherry, plum, incense, licorice, mocha, chocolate and new oak races across the palate. This has real depth, substance and character.