Ch. Beychevelle - vertical tasting

This beautiful chateau close to the Gironde is 4th rand cru classee. The names derives from an old story about the boats passing the chateau had to lower their sails (basse-voile) in respect.

We had the hard task of tasting the 2004,2002, 1997, 1989 and 1985 (somebody have to to the job)

Beychevelle is a medium to full bodied wine with more than 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and around 30% Merlot. Conclusions from the tasting is that the 1989 was at peak, but that the 1985 was still drinking well but maybe on the way down. 2004 could also be drunk now after a couple of hours in the caraffe, 2002 was corked and 1997 was most enjoyable right now leading to the conclusion that Beychevelle peaks between 10 and 20 years old....
The wines below cost from 30 to 110€ per bottle.

2004 ca 17p Very drinkable with soft tannic structure

2002 corked

1997 ca 18p Coffee, smoke, smooth firm tannins, great stuff

1989 ca 18.5 Drinking perfect now, with long velvety taste

1985 ca 18 Smoke, coffee, slightly sweet but balanced taste

http://www.beychevelle.com/

Comments

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