2020 Couhins-Lurton
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Tasting notes
Tasted blind. A little bit grassy and not very aromatic at first, opening up to pear and a light note of vanilla. Rich and dense on the palate, really creamy and rich. Almost tastes off dry but has high acid to contrast. Deep and lemony. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
James Lawther MW, jancisrobinson.com
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
The 2020 Couhins-Lurton has a high-toned, rather oaky nose at the moment - it clearly needs more time. The palate is medium-bodied with light tannins, quite fresh, tensile and focused with cedar and tobacco notes toward the finish. Thoroughly enjoyable. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.
100% Sauvignon Blanc. Fermented and aged 12 months in barrel (70%) and amphorae (30%) followed by a further six months in tank on lees. Tight and reined-in on the nose. Long and focused but definitely more volume and gras on the palate than in the past. Dry, clean finish. Less austere than the old model so perhaps greater all-round appeal. (JL)
Like its white counterpart, the 2020 Couhins-Lurton has turned out very well, exhibiting pure aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants and subtle spices. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated and vibrant, with powdery tannins and a mouthwatering finish, it's an intensely flavored, beautifully balanced wine that reflects its origins in limestone soils that always lend this bottling a low-pH profile. Having recently changed consultant winemaker, this estate's reds are going from strength to strength.