1999 Domaine Grange Brulee

The vineyards around St Vincent de Paul, just 15 km north of Bordeaux city, used to be some of the most extensive and important in the Bordeaux region. Many disappeared after phylloxera, but Domaine Grange Brulee can boast an unbroken history of viticulture dating back to 1778. This long tradition explains the unusually high proportion of old vines here, most are at least 25 years old, and many are 60 years old.Xavier Landeau has taken full advantage of this legacy in creating a range of very definitely superior, Bordeaux Superieurs. These are eye-opening wines that demonstrate the quality potential of old vines and low yields, and indicate that Bordeaux does have a future beyond the chic appellations of St Emilion and the Medoc. All wines are impeccably balanced with silky tannins and a seamless texture. There is none of the dilution or green flavours that mark so many 'petit chateau' clarets. Indeed, the Cru Lagaillarde has a concentration and depth that would shame many a more famous name at twice the price.
An impressive Cabernets. Deep crimson mauve colour. Aroma of spice, confectionary and blackcurrant, followed by a hint of cedar. The wine has excellent fruit flavours with blackcurrant and chocolate dominant over a spicy background. Very soft, velvet smooth tannins, followed by a spice, confectionary and blackcurrant aftertaste.
Cellar 2 - 3 years (2003 - 2004).

RATING: 89/100

VALUE FOR MONEY: XXXX/5