There was a lot of talk about Chateau Margaux, and all of it was very understandable. Robert Parker rated the 2009 vintage 100 points, Wine Enthusiast rated it 97 points and Decanter rated it a 20. That is pretty positive press.
Despite the great weather that produced wonderful fruit throughout the Margaux region only 31% of the crop at Chateau Margaux made it into the first wine. Even though this resulted in a smaller production than usual, it created an incredible wine.
The tasting was done at the Chateau in the new tank room. From the pictures you can see that there is a mixture of differently-sized oak and steel fermentation tanks in the room. This allows the winemaker to ferment fruit from different parts of the vineyard in the most appropriate container. So, if a plot of Merlot would benefit from fermentation in oak it will be, if it is better in steel it will be fermented there.
Henri Lurton at Chateau Brane Cantenac does the same thing, but he uses oak, steel and concrete. We'll talk more about this in other focus segments.
The 2009 vintage is a blend of an incredible 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. The wine is elegant, especially for a wine that is so young. It has strong floral and black fruit aromas and smooth well-structured tannins. Don't let the softness fool you though, it has a full body and a lingering palate. The 2009 vintage really is one for the ages.
1 comment:
Interesting photos you have here, thanks.
Post a Comment