Recently, I’ve set myself an interesting and probably quite difficult (and expensive) challenge. To drink all 61 of the classified growth wines from the 1855 classification of Bordeaux.
For a long time I didn’t quite understand the terms Premier Cru, Grand Cru Classé, Premier Grand Cru Classé etc so after a bit of research I managed to gain a better understanding of how Bordeaux wines were classified and why the 1855 classification was so important for putting certain Chateaux on the map.
Cantemerle was not a producer I knew lots about aside that it was a 5th growth from the Haut-Medoc and one of the cheaper classified growth wines.
Upon opening the bottle, I was greeted by an inviting nose of graphite, oak and blackcurrant. Initially the palate was fairly closed and simple yet with time in the decanter and a swirl in the class and it began to really open up. Flavours of blackcurrant, black cherry, oak and liquorice began to neatly present themselves.
The wine has a medium body, medium fine tannins and a nice touch of acidity which kept things fresh. Definitely on the younger side but an enjoyable start to my challenge. However, I do think the wine lacked complexity and I found the finish rather disappointing. Despite this, an enjoyable drink to have in the sun with good food.
by Manzilla48
2 Comments
It’s all going to be about primary fruit at this stage for a 2019, I wouldn’t expect any tertiary complexity until after another 5 years plus, as you go up the rankings recommend you look at older moderate vintages such as 2014, 2008 and 2006
Good luck with this task. It will be a lengthy, challenging, and expensive endeavor. It took me the better part of five years to complete this myself with two work trips to Bordeaux during that time. Depending on where you are in the world, some of the châteaux are nearly impossible to get. Not discouraging, just fair warning.