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2005 Chateau Rousselle Cru Bourgeois
The Maison Noble de Rousselle was erected in 1636 by the chevalier Jean de Tortary, on the slopes overlooking the Gironde river between the towns of Blaye and Bourg, right across the Medoc peninsula. While the local archives can attest this area had been under vines for many centuries, consecration came during the late 19th century, with the mention of Chateau Rousselle as a “Premier Bourgeois” in the 1868 edition of “Bordeaux and its wines” by Cocks and Feret, the highest distinction in Bordeaux outside of the official 1855 Medoc classification, and one to not to be mistaken with the later Medoc Crus Bourgeois classification.
This was most certainly the result of the technical advances that took place at Chateau Rousselle during the 19th century, when the estate had been chosen as a pilot for the modernisation of cellars in the region. A victim of phylloxera from 1875, the estate ownership changed many times during the 20th century, with the 1970’s marking the darkest hours like for many other properties in the greater Bordeaux region. In 1999 Vincent Lemaitre, the current proprietor, fell in love with the estate and embarked on a project of rejuvenation of the 17th and 19th centuries buildings along with the vineyards and winemaking facilities, with a view to raise the estate back to its glorious past.
Today the 23Ha (18 of which are adjoining) are planted at an altitude of 30 to 60 m above sea level, on soft slopes facing north. The vineyards at an average of 45 yo, are planted with the traditional varietals of Bordeaux Merlot, cabernet sauvignon, malbec, cab frc, on soils “Asteries” limestone combined with brown clays.
Usually associated with lighter reds , the Cotes de Bourg appellation can deliver ripeness and intensity and this cuvee is a case in point and in our view Rousselle punches well above its weight. Cold soaking , long fermentation and 18 months in 100% new French oak were the key to make the Cuvee Prestige stand the test of time. Only now in 2011, the wine is starting to reveal itself and is reminiscent of some of the best Right banks Bordeaux without the clame to fame nor the hefty price tag!
This excellent Bordeaux is comprised of 85% Merlot, 10% Malbec and 5% Cabernet Franc and aged
for 18 months in 100% new French oak barrels. Excellent opaque black crimson colour with deep dark
crimson red hue. The nose displays perfumed aromas of dark cherry and dark plum, followed by some
dark chocolate and toasty cedar with an earthy overlay. Medium to full bodied and possessing excellent
richness, the palate delivers fully ripened flavours of black cherry and mulberry, followed by some meaty
cedar-like characters and a spicy back palate. Excellent structure and depth, with dryish but fine grained
tannins. Perfectly balanced. Medium to long aftertaste of black cherry, ripe mulberry, spicy cedar and earth.
It will drink well over the next 4-5 years (2011-2016).
Alc 14.5%
Very limited stocks!color=#ff0000>