Chateau Prieure-Lichine

This large fourth growth, some 70 hectares of fragmented vineyards, was built up by the Bordeaux legend Alexis Lichine (it was named Prieuré-Cantenac before his purchase in 1952). On his death, his son Sacha took over, but after a decade he sold the property in 1999 to the Ballande group who have invested heavily in the vineyards and winemaking. Always an elegant and perfumed style if somewhat irregular in quality. In recent years, the wine has become richer and fuller and perhaps less ‘typical’ Margaux, however the quality has soared and these are now serious wines worth ageing.