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NOTES
Chateau Beychevelle is one of the Médoc's finest constructions, an 18th Century affair built in the style of Louis XV. The estate lies at the south-eastern tip of the St Julien commune, close to the town of Beychevelle, with near neighbours including Chateau St Pierre and Chateau Gloria. Its regal demeanour and luxuriant flowerbeds are fine viewed either from the road or from the Gironde, which is less than a mile away to the east. The wine produced here was classified as one of ten Quatrièmes Crus (Fourth Growths) in the historic Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855.
The deep Garonne gravel vineyards at Beychevelle currently account for 90 ha of the 250 ha estate, planted with 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Average vine age is 25 years. The blends are typically 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot.
TASTING NOTES
The 2005 was indeed a fantastic year in Bordeaux across both the Right and Left Banks of the Gironde. Very deep, pure fruit here, with exotic perfumed violets, white pepper raspberries and apples. This has plenty of interest to offer! Pure, a little lighter in style than some, a lifted character, with cherry and cranberry freshness of fruit. A great acid backbone, nicely defined, with an elegant, well composed style. A very fine Beychevelle indeed.
PAST REVIEWS
While this is a strong effort from a property that too often does not live up to its pedigree, I had hoped the 2005 Beychevelle would merit an even higher score. A deep ruby/purple hue is accompanied by a sweet perfume of roasted herbs, black cherries, and even blacker fruits. The wine is medium to full-bodied with sweet tannin, good acidity, and a fruitcake-like spiciness and earthiness. Pure and long with a tannic clout that is neither intrusive nor excessive, this elegant, powerful effort should be at its finest between 2017-2030. 90/100 Robert Parker - Wine Advocate –April 2008
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