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Château Beychevelle 4ème Grand Cru Classé 2003
13%
1.5L
Intensity
The definition of a Saint-Julien: racy, supple and expressive with a fabulous potential for ageing.
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Lot presentation
Château Beychevelle 4ème Grand Cru Classé 2003
The wine
With no less than 70 hectares in the famous Saint-Julien appellation (Médoc), Château Beychevelle has become a must-have. The blend is made up largely of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with a bit of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot to round it off. A rigorous selection process takes place in the vineyard to keep only the best grapes. The wine is delicate and balanced, rich in tannins and charming with its aromas of fruit and spices. Considering their excellent structure, these wines can be aged extensively. Many are the wine enthusiasts from France and beyond who seek this wine in its mature vintages, particularly accomplished. As for the more recent vintages, these too are coveted by a global clientele, particularly in Asia. It will pair well with red meat but it welcomes more creative dishes, too!
About the Producer Château Beychevelle
Located on a low plateau, the vineyard in AOC Saint-Julien adjoins the commune of Cussac. Most of the plots have soil similar to Latour, consisting of coarse gravel with the drainage enhanced by numerous channels. The chateau was built in 1565 by Bishop Francois de Foix-Candale. His niece, who inherited it, married Jean Louis de Nogaret de la Valette, first duke of Epernon, grand admiral of France and governor of Guyenne, close to King Henri III. The power and fame of the Duke were such that the boats which passed in front of the domain had to lower the sails in sign of allegiance, hence the name Beychevelle (meaning baisse la voile, or lower the sails in the local dialect). A new chateau was built in the middle of the 18th century by the Marquis de Brassier, Baron de Beychevelle. The property was classified fourth growth in 1855. Several owners succeeded one another until today: the Japanese Suntory and the Castel group are now co-shareholders of GMF (Grands Millésimes de France), which possesses among other things the Chateau Beychevelle. The vineyard extends over 90 hectares within an area of 250 hectares and the grape variety is composed of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. It is managed through responsible farming. Château Beychevelle has become one of the best names from the Médoc region.
Detailed characteristics
Quantity: 2 bottles
Level 2 NormalObservations 2 Scratched labels, 2 Slightly marked labelsOrigin: professional
Type of cellar: underground, natural cellar
Recoverable VAT: no
Original wooden case / Original case: no
French customs seal: yes
Alcohol percentage: 13 %
Region: Bordeaux
Appellation: Saint-Julien
Classification: Quatrième Grand Cru Classé
Owner: Grands Millésimes de France (Suntory/P.Castel)
Vintage: 2003
Colour: red
Peak drinking window: collectable bottle
Service temperature: 16°
Size (in ha): 90 hectares
Volume: 300000 bottles
Intensity: classic
Leading aroma: black fruit
Tasting occasion: food-friendly wine