94-96. Barrel Sample. This wine is poised between great ripeness and a mineral, textured character, while also showing a robust tannic structure. Its richness is tempered by the freshness of the vintage. There is plenty of long-term aging potential in this wine that continues the great improvements at the estate.

The 2019 Prieuré-Lichine soars from the glass, showing tremendous aromatic depth and tons of pure drive. Silky and plush on the palate, the 2019 has so much going on. Superripe red cherry, red plum, blood orange, mint, wild flowers and sweet spice give this racy Margaux tons of class. As good as the 2019 is today, my impression is that there is more wine than I am seeing from these barrel samples. Tasted two times.

Readers looking for a complex, nuanced Margaux should check out the 2019 Château Prieuré-Lichine. Giving up a beautiful floral bouquet that includes red and blue fruits, sappy herbs, and flowery incense, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, plenty of mid-palate depth and sweet tannins, and a great finish. This complex, layered Margaux needs just 2-4 years of bottle age and should see its 20th birthday in fine form.