1970 Lascombes
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Tasting notes
This definitely gives Giscours 1970 a run for its money in terms of being the sleeper of the Margaux appellation in this particular vintage. Plenty of depth and vibrancy to the colour (barely lighter than the 1990 by the way). Prune colour, darkened rose around the outer edges. Fresh waves of dried flowers aromatics on the nose, this is inviting, begging you to take a sip. Melted and finely layered tannins support blackberry, bracken, autumn hedgerow, tobacco and gentle sweet pureed fruits. Perhaps lacks a little signature generosity of Lascombes, but is one of the standout surprises of this lineup. Alexis Lichine owner at the time, just one year before he sold up to Bass Charrington.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
The 1970 Lascombes is the oldest vintage of this Margaux that I have tasted. Surprisingly deep in hue with just a slight turbidity, it initially sports a rustic nose, stocky and Saint-Julien in style. But it develops more complexity with aeration, becoming slightly loamy and developing inky aromas. The palate likewise improves over the course of two hours, evolving ever-greater complexity. A pretty wine, and with more stuffing than the 1970 Poujeaux tasted the previous week. Its main failing is softness on the short finish, where I want more grip. Apart from those two criticisms, this is a pretty Lascombes that should be consumed over the next five or six years.
The fully mature 1970 is a fine example of Lascombes--darkly colored, ripe, full bodied, richly fruity, and fleshy, but it has the concentration of fruit and structure to hold for 4-6 more years. It is a spicy, fragrant, and altogether satisfying mouthful of amply endowed wine. Anticipated maturity: Now. Last tasted, 6/88.
About the producer
With vines spread across 40 different parcels throughout the appellation, Ch. Lascombes is one of the most fragmented but also largest Médoc estates, with 120 hectares of vines, now owned by the MACSF insurance company.