The 2020 edition of this wine is a dominant Cabernet Sauvignon blend, accounting for more than half the make-up with Merlot and Cabernet Franc making up the rest. The wine is lovely, with opulent black cherry notes, blackberries, cinnamon and dried herbs. With some epic tannins and earthy tones, you’ll need to cellar this for a few years if you have the patience.

Château Lilian Ladouys is one of the relatively fresh faces in Bordeaux’s Saint-Estèphe appellation, known for crafting wines with bold character and a charming, approachable style. With roots dating back to the 16th century, this Cru Bourgeois estate has undergone a renaissance in recent years, thanks to the dynamic stewardship of the Lorenzetti family, who acquired it in 2008. Their investment in modernising the vineyards and cellar has elevated Lilian Ladouys to new heights, garnering attention from wine lovers around the globe. The vineyards are primarily planted with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with smaller plots of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc adding complexity. Saint-Estèphe’s clay-limestone soils give the wines a sturdy backbone, with plenty of tannins to support long ageing, but Lilian Ladouys is all about balance. It's perfect for early drinking but has the potential to evolve beautifully in the cellar. These wines have been aged carefully in Bordeaux for the last few years and are only available in extremely short supply.