2005 Beychevelle

Still vibrant and young at 19 years old, full of charm, silky textured tannins that are well integrated but still very much cradling the fruit, with waves of cigar box, crushed rocks, earth, saffron and tobacco. Great moment to drink, 60% new oak for ageing.

I love the 2005 Château Beychevelle, a beautifully complex, nuanced, medium-bodied Saint- Julien that has pure crème de cassis and darker fruits as well as smoked tobacco, truffly earth, and graphite nuances. It’s not a blockbuster yet exudes elegance and class, with fine tannins, a layered mouthfeel, and a great finish. It should evolve nicely over the coming 15+ years.

The 2005 Beychevelle has an attractive nose with brambly red fruit, marmalade, cedar and light leather aromas. This is just a little rustic, yet full of vigor and presence. The palate is medium-bodied with grippy tannins. Solid and muscular, it comes across a little uncouth compared to more recent, more refined vintages, though it has an attractive spicy, black pepper-infused finish. Drinking well now, it should give another decade of drinking pleasure. Tasted at the Beychevelle vertical at the property.