Another incredibly successful sleeper of the vintage, the 2008 Lascombes confirms just how many top 2008s were produced. A dark plum/ruby/purple-tinged color is followed by a sexy, up-front perfume of forest floor, damp earth, blue and red fruits and a touch of spicy oak. Lush with low acidity and sweet tannin, it appears to be a bigger version of the stunning 2008 Malescot St.-Exupery. Drink it over the next 15 or more years – it is well-worth buying by the case.

Oak, earth, blackberry, cassis, fennel and pepper open to a plush, round, wine with an opulent, forward, personality. The percentage of new oak has been toned down, which is a good thing. Tasted Jan 2011

Dark red. Very ripe aromas of plum, mocha, coffee, earth and fresh herbs. Lush, smooth and sweet, with palate-coating flavors of currant, earth and smoky oak. Suave, accessible Margaux, finishing with a fine dusting of tannins and spreading out impressively on the back end. Very good subtle length here.

The layers and power here are clear from the first attack, There is a heavier oak influence than some, but it's balanced by damson fruit and a shot of unmistakable Lascombes glamour. A highly enjoyable Margaux; not the most subtle but with plenty to enjoy. Drinking Window: 2018 - 2028
Tasted by: Jane Anson (at BI, London, 01 Jan 2018)
Part of How Bordeaux 2008 wines taste now: 70 top names rated

The 2008 Lascombes felt smudged and lacked complexity on the nose compared to its peers, open-knit, enjoyable but it is missing a sense of terroir. The palate is sweet and candied on the entry with fine tannin and well judged acidity, notes of black plum and a smear of cassis. This Lascombes is ready to be broached now but it is just missing personality and sense of being "Margaux". (Tasted at BI Wine & Spirit’s annual 10-Year On tasting.) Feb 2018

Smoky and toasty on the nose – overt oak char. Juicy and well balanced on the palate, with finely ground tannins. Finishes fairly light, and the smoke influence is a dominant force throughout. (RH)