2020 Chateau Lanessan - Haut-Medoc HALF BOTTLE (375ml)

Château Lanessan has belonged to the Bouteiller family since the 18th century, with eight generations overseeing the estate across nearly three hundred years. The property is often called a Grand Cru Hors Classé, a nod to the fact that a previous owner declined to submit samples for the 1855 Classification, leaving the estate's traditional ranking as a Fourth Growth never formally confirmed. Since 2009 the estate has been managed by Paz Espejo, and since 2020 by a new team that has deepened its longstanding collaboration with the respected Médoc consultant winemaker Eric Boissenot.

Located in the commune of Cussac-Fort-Médoc, just south of Château Gruaud-Larose, the vineyard covers around forty-two hectares planted on deep Garonne gravel over a clay and gravel subsoil. The blend combines Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot from vines averaging twenty to thirty years old. Grapes are hand harvested and sorted using optical screening before fermenting in temperature-controlled concrete tanks, with pumping over and other traditional techniques adjusted to suit each vintage.

The 2020 shows a deep purple-black color, with a lively nose of crushed redcurrant, black raspberry, and dried Provence herbs, along with hints of pencil shavings. The medium-bodied palate delivers energetic red and black berry flavors, framed by grainy tannins and a refreshing finish. It pairs well with grilled sirloin, roasted root vegetables, or Beaufort cheese.