1989 DOMAINE DE CHEVALIER ROUGE - (ALMOST) PERFECT!

Much is said and written of Bordeaux pricing in this day and age. It is fair to say that the greatest wines of Bordeaux have become pretty much the exclusive privy of the rich. To some extent that is a great pity, as a mature example of a fine red Bordeaux is a pleasure that should be experienced many, not just a privileged few.

This particular wine is the essence of what is special about Bordeaux. Although a modest 12% ABV it possesses considerable flavour, tremendous complexity and outstanding length. It seamlessly glides over and caresses the palate.

While this wasn’t a perfect bottle (perhaps ever so slightly oxidised), it was eminently drinkable. It will be interesting to see how more recent vintages of this wine and its peers develop in bottle.

1989 DOMAINE DE CHEVALIER ROUGE
Producer: Domaine de Chevalier
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon et al
Vintage: 1989
Region: Pessac-Leognan – Bordeaux, France
ABV: 12%
Closure: Natural cork
Retail Price: N/a
Date tasted: 27 December 2013

Tasting Note:
Evolved mid-garnet, bricking at the rim. Complex nose of leather, game, woodsmoke, fig, slightly acetic. Pleasant core of sweet plummy fruit, creamy texture, tannins completely resolved. Very elegant and stylish. Plenty of flesh on the bones even if not a completely perfect bottle. Delicious. Fully mature.
Score: 17.5/20