PRELUDE A GRAND-PUY DUCASSE 2015, Pauillac, Bordeaux

94pts from Wine Enthusiast, 92pts from James Suckling, 91pts from Wine Spectator, and 90-92pts from The Wine Advocate. In the mid-17th century Jacques de Ségur (aka Lord of Lafite) sold his estate to Arnaud Ducasse. Situated along the Gironde estuary, the estate has stayed in the family for going on 300 years. Eventually Pierre Ducasse, a family member who was a lawyer with a passion for wine, inherited the estate. Through the centuries Pierre has been known by the family as the "true inventor" of the vineyard. Over time the estate has physically grown in both land and buildings along with technology. The current chateau was built in 1820 by Pierre's son replacing the original ancestral house. Over the years starting in 1971, various investors have been brought on board by the family updating the technology as well as production buildings throughout the winery. Multiple factors make this estate unusual with the first being that it is physically located in the heart of Pauillac. The second is that when Pierre bought the land, he bought parcels spread out over three parishes (Pauillac, Saint Lambert, and Beycheville) that were also three Lord's domains (Lafite, Latour and Beychevelle). The final unique factor is the parishes are spread out over BOTH the city of Pauillac and a part of the " bourdieu de Grand-Puy". Classified in 1855 as a 5th growth under the name of Artigues Arnaud the current name of Grand-Puy Ducasse was founded in 1932. Deep purple hues bordering on black lead into bold aromatics of ripe dark fruit, dried purple flowers, and truffles. The palate is both complex and intense filled with juicy black fruits, savory earthy notes, and toasted spices. Finishing long and powerful with chewy tannins showcasing black fruit jam, spices, and toasty vanilla cellar up until 2030 or drink young. Either way it pairs wonderfully with bold pasta dishes, hearty stews, and grilled, roasted or braised fare.