2014 Chateau La Lagune Haut-Medoc [Future Arrival]

The Château La Lagune 2014 was picked between 22 September is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 10% Petit Verdot with the young plots of Merlot and finishing with the Petit Verdot on 7 October. Proprietor Caroline Fray explained that there is a higher percentage of Cabernet because the Merlot suffered a lot of coulure. They have also replanted some Cabernet on the top of the hill, and these are now ready to go into the Grand Vin (there will probably be a higher level of Cabernet Sauvignon from now on.) It has well-defined bouquet, a little broody at first, but opening with chalky scents, tobacco and a touch of graphite, the higher percentage of Cabernet lending it a Pauillac like personality. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannin, quite citric acidity but supported by adequate black fruit. This is a classic La Lagune that I think will fill out with barrel maturation (50% new) and turn into a mighty fine La Lagune that will settle at the top of my banded score. -Neal Martin