“Takes off on the medium-bodied palate with fine, polished tannins and a long finish. The tannins come out at the end. Punchy merlot. 96% merlot and 4% cabernet franc.” May 2020

Flowers, chocolate, cinnamon spice, truffle and red pit fruits are found in the complex aromatic profile. On the palate the wine is all about the dark chocolate coated plums with just a hint of espresso on the palate and in the supple textured finish. This is already so good and it is going to get even better with just a few years of age. Drink from 2022-2034.

Composed of 96% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Alcee was harvested from the 27th of September to the 9th of October. Yields were 29 hectoliters per hectare this year. Deep garnet-purple in color, it needs a little coaxing to reveal the beautiful raspberry pie, kirsch and Black Forest cake scents, followed by notions of violets, fallen leaves and star anise. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is solidly constructed with firm, ripe, grainy tannins and seamless freshness supporting the tightly knit red and black fruit flavors, finishing long and fragrant. About 1,650 cases are anticipated to be made.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, June 2020

Consistently impressive, and with plenty of structured but chalky tannins that keep the dark blackcurrant and raspberry fruits in line, taking you slowly but surely towards a mouthwatering finish. A Nicolas Thienpont wine, this has softened and opened over ageing. janeanson.com

Nicolas Thienpont's 2019 Alcée offers notable freshness and energy, which is a very good sign for its potential over the coming years. Sweet dark cherry, plum, tobacco, spice, new leather and licorice all take shape in the glass. There is lovely energy and vibrancy here. Tasted three times.

'The 2019 Château Alcée comes from the Castillon region and is mostly Merlot with a splash of Cabernet Franc. Another delicious 2019 in the making, it has a deep purple color, complex notes of bouquet garni (thyme, rosemary), violets, leather, and blue fruits, medium body, juicy acidity, sweet tannins, and a great finish. It's another satisfying, balanced, delicious Castillon to enjoy on release and over the following 7-8 years.' June 2020