L'Hetre 2020

Standard - 75cl

L'Hetre 2020
This product is Out Of Stock.

Wine Critic Reviews


95
Jeb DunnuckJeb Dunnuck

I was blown away by the quality of the 2020 L'Hetre, and this estate, as well as the entire Castillon region, is one to watch going forward. Based on 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, brought up in 30% new French oak, it has a ruby/purple hue as well as a classic limestone-influenced bouquet of black raspberries, chalky minerality, white truffle, and tobacco. Perfectly balanced and incredibly elegant, with building yet fine tannins, drink this remarkable Castillon any time over the coming two decades.

  • Drinking Window: 2023 - 2043
  • Reviewer Name: Jeb Dunnuck
  • Review Date: March 2023

L’Hetre 2020 is a blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, grown organically on 30 hectares in Castillon by Maxime Thienpont, the nephew of Jacques, with Axel Marchal as their consultant. The wine has been produced since 2016. The 2020 is deep garnet-purple in color and shoots from the glass with vibrant notes of wild blueberries, chocolate-covered cherries, and mulberries, leading to suggestions of star anise, black olives, and crushed rocks. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is completely coated with powerful black fruit and earthy flavors, framed by firm, grainy tannins and bright freshness, finishing long and minerally.

  • Drinking Window: 2025 - 2045
  • Reviewer Name: Lisa Perrotti-Brown
  • Review Date: March 2023

The 2020 L'Hêtre has a more restrained and nuanced bouquet that unfolds in the glass, with more mineralité and terroir expression than the preceding d'Aiguilhe. The palate is medium-bodied with finely chiseled tannins and gentle grip. Tobacco and graphite-infused black fruit lead to a beautifully proportioned and sophisticated finish. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.

  • Drinking Window: 2026 - 2045
  • Reviewer Name: Neal Martin
  • Review Date: February 2023

The 2020 L'Hêtre is a gorgeous Côtes de Castillon from the Thienpont family. Racy and also beautifully layered, the 2020 is impressive right out of the gate. Ripe black cherry, menthol, lavender, spice and game infuse the 2020 with notable complexity. Readers will find a wine of real character and nuance that will challenge those of more famous appellations.

  • Drinking Window: 2023 - 2034
  • Reviewer Name: Antonio Galloni
  • Review Date: February 2023