Growing Conditions
2015 will go down in the history of Prieuré-Lichine’s vintages as one of extreme refinement, brought by ripe Cabernet Sauvignon, and amazing density.
The 2014-2015 winter was quite mild with high rainfall. Building of the vines was late, beginning in April, and promised a large, homogeneous crop. Spring weather ensured even shooting of the vines but with high
fungal disease pressure due to numerous spells of rainy weather throughout April and May. Careful monitoring and fast reaction by
our vineyard teams made sure the vines were well protected.
A quite dry month of June guaranteed a successful flowering process with crop size forecasts in line with our expectations. July had a big impact on the vintage with the weather causing a severe water deficit in the vines. Berries hardly grew in size, while young vines showed worrying signs of advanced stress, forcing us to thin those crops for the
long-term survival of the plots.
Fortunately, regular rain showers throughout August brought a new lease of life to the vegetation and helped enlarge the thick-skinned berries. September with its light rain showers that came at judicious intervals reinforced hopes for a great 2015 vintage. Dry, warm weather enabled a fully ripe crop to be brought in. Each individual plot zone was harvested at the optimum moment, without constraint.
Because of naturally higher alcoholic degrees, the vinifications went smoothly with shorter macerations than in 2014.
The wines show modern-style profiles a flavoursome and poweful palate.
Unquestionably, the end of season weather helped make 2015 a stand-out vintage in its time with good balances, fabulous aromatic precision and rarely archieved density on the palate. Most definitely a great vintage for Margaux and for
Prieuré-Lichine.
Harvest
- Merlot : 17th September - 1st October
- Cabernet Sauvignon : 02nd - 09th October
- Grapes picked into small crates - Vibrating sorting tables
- Manual sorting and optical line - No crushing
- Gravity flow vat-falling
Aging
Great ageing potential, over 25 years for the greatest vintages.
- 50 % new barrels
- 50 % second fill barrels
Food Pairing
The pure Margaux style of Château Prieuré-Lichine will pair with all the traditional dishes of French cuisine and cheeses.
