Chateau Beychevelle, St. Julien 2019

The vintage: The 2019 vintage will be remembered for its contrasting weather conditions. Following a mild winter, spring took place in several different phases. The summer of 2019 will be remembered for its high temperatures and constant sunshine. In fact, 2019 was the third hottest summer since 1900! In September, showers and cooler temperatures helped extend the ripening cycle of the fruit by providing some freshness. The harvest at Château Beychevelle began on September 23 and was completed on October 11, yielding perfectly ripe fruit in each grape variety. Harvested in perfect health conditions, the 2019 vintage displays great concentration and freshness. The 25th vintage of Philippe Blanc at the helm of the property, 2019 is clearly one of the greatest vintages of Château Beychevelle and Bordeaux in general.

The blend: The First Wine of the estate, the Château Beychevelle 2019 is produced from a blend of Merlot (49%), Cabernet Sauvignon (46%), Petit Verdot (3%) and Cabernet Franc (2%).

The tasting: The Château Beychevelle 2019 shows a rich colour in the glass. When tasted, the fruit shines through with a great sharpness and freshness. The 2019 features a more moderate alcohol content than the previous vintage. The Château Beychevelle 2019 presents good depth on the palate, as well as a certain relief associated with a tannic structure, as well as finesse.