Thursday, January 17, 2008

2002 Chateau St. Jean Cinq Cépages

An amazing claret (meritage). Labeled as a Cabernet Sauvignon; however, it's a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot; each of which is aged independently in oak before being blended and bottled. The nose assaults you with concentrated fruit (predominantly black with a touch of red, particulary crushed cherry(?)**). Well balanced, tannins are noticeable, but fade quickly, ending in a smooth finish (not enough to cut through the abundant marbling in a prime ribeye steak, but much more suitable toward a filet). The question I have is how does the 2003 compare to the 2002 (especially since the 2003 received a higher rating than the 2002)?

From the winemaker:
Engaging and seductive, the 2002 vintage delivers the signature aromas we look for on Cinq Cépages – chocolate covered cherries and hints of mocha. Deep, dense and beautifully balanced, a medium – bodied entry fills the mouth with black plums, hibiscus notes and an exotic floral note that wrap around big, juicy tannins. Highly extracted and perfectly balanced, this wine delivers cedar and sweet roasted oak notes throughout a lingering finish.
IHSV

No comments:

Post a Comment