The 2023 release of Château Lascombes has emerged as a standout moment in this year’s Bordeaux En Primeur campaign, marking not only a stylistic shift but also a strategic adjustment in pricing.
Arriving on the market at GBP 595 (EUR 699) per 12×75 case, this new-era Margaux has captivated attention for its graceful refinement and modern direction—described by James Lawther MW as delivering “Margaux elegance at last.”
Critical Acclaim and Tasting Impressions
The 2023 vintage has earned strong praise from leading wine critics, many of whom highlighted the estate’s move away from the over-extracted styles of the past toward a fresher, more terroir-driven expression of Margaux.
- Antonio Galloni (Vinous): Scoring the wine 92–95 points, Galloni characterized it as "dark and virile with real intensity," adding that it will be “a fascinating wine to follow.”
- Neal Martin (Vinous): With a 92–94 point score, Martin noted this as a “restyled Margaux,” pointing to a welcome new direction based on stricter selection in the vineyard and cellar.
- Lisa Perrotti-Brown (The Wine Independent): Offering a barrel score of 93–95 points, she was impressed by its aromatic complexity: “freshly crushed blackberries, cassis, black raspberries, with menthol, dark chocolate, licorice, and violets.”
- William Kelley (The Wine Advocate): Also scoring it 92–94 points, Kelley applauded the estate’s turnaround, noting that Château Lascombes is “assuredly coming in from the cold.”
- James Lawther MW (Jancis Robinson): Lawther captured the broader critical sentiment succinctly: “Margaux elegance at last,” assigning it 17+/20 points and praising the wine’s structural clarity and stylistic refinement.
Pricing and Market Position
The release price of EUR 49.20 per bottle ex-négociant represents a 21.2% decrease from the 2022 release price of EUR 62.40. On the broader international market, the wine is offered at GBP 595 (EUR 699) per 12×75—down 20.2% from last year’s GBP 746 (EUR 876) price.
This price reduction is particularly notable given the upward trajectory in quality. Though it remains among the more premium Margaux releases of recent vintages, the price is seen as justified by both critical support and clear stylistic improvement. Château Lascombes appears to be positioning itself as a modern Margaux benchmark, aiming to regain relevance and prestige through quality rather than excess.
Alternatives in the Market
For those seeking value in back vintages, Château Lascombes 2019 emerges as an attractive option. Currently trading at around GBP 475 (EUR 558) per 12×75, it offers a 20.2% discount compared to the 2023 release.
- Neal Martin rated the 2019 vintage 92 points, giving it credibility as a high-quality wine at a more accessible price.
- With several years of bottle age, the 2019 also offers shorter-term drinking potential for collectors and enthusiasts looking to enjoy Margaux sooner.
Conclusion
The 2023 Château Lascombes release represents more than just a new vintage—it signals a redefinition of style, strategy, and identity for this historic Margaux estate. The emphasis on elegance, balance, and site expression, combined with a meaningful price correction, makes it one of the most exciting releases in this year's En Primeur campaign.
For collectors, this vintage marks a pivotal return to form. For investors, it presents measured upside potential supported by strong critical endorsement. And for wine lovers, it is a chance to experience the rebirth of Margaux finesse in one of its most polished expressions to date.
Source: Liv-ex