Château Lagrange 1996

Château Lagrange in Bordeaux's Saint-Julien is quite the classic, with roots stretching back to the 18th century. When Suntory took over in 1983, they really upped the game in terms of quality. This 1996 vintage? It's just about hit its stride, and opening a bottle now is like uncovering a little time capsule.

In volume 2 of "Drops of God," you might recall when Shizuku and Sara enjoyed this wine over a meal. They mentioned how it reminded them of crème de cassis and freshly toasted bread, a perfect pairing with their food. That scene really brings the aroma to life, doesn't it?

When you tilt the glass, you see this deep garnet color with a hint of a brick rim, showing its 30 years of aging. The aroma is open and complex—rich blackcurrant hits you first, followed by notes of dried plums and subtle dried herbs. There's an undertone of black tea and sous-bois that just draws you in more with every sniff.

On the palate, it's got a solid structure and deep fruitiness. The acidity is smooth, and the tannins are velvety, offering a perfect balance. As it finishes, there's a lingering spice and dark chocolate note that makes you wanna sip again. This wine is elegant with a long finish, capturing the real essence of Bordeaux in a bottle.