Critics reviews
Robert M. Parker, Jr. - Wine Advocate - Issue#194 - May 2011
About this WINE
Chateau Magdelaine
Château Magdelaine, was a notable 1er grand cru classé, in St-Emilion owned by the famous firm of Ets Jean-Pierre Moueix.
Magdelaine had 10.4 hectares of vineyards, of which six were on the famous St Emilion limestone ridge (very close to Ch. Ausone) and the remainder on clay- and limestone-based slopes. Merlot performs particularly well on these limestone-rich soils and at Magdelaine it is the dominant grape, making up 90 percent of the blend – a higher proportion than is found in any other Premier Grand Cru Classé from St Emilion. The final vintage of Magdelaine was 2011, before it was swallowed up by Ch. Bélair-Monange.
Merlot/Cabernet Franc
Merlot and Cabernet Franc are grape varieties commonly used in Bordeaux-style blends, particularly in the Bordeaux region of France. When these two grapes are blended, they can create a wine that combines the best characteristics of each variety.
Merlot is known for its smoothness, soft tannins, and ripe fruit flavours. It often contributes black cherry, plum, and chocolate flavours to the blend. The grapes are relatively easy to grow and ripen earlier than other Bordeaux varieties, making them versatile for blending.
Cabernet Franc, on the other hand, adds structure, depth, and complexity to the blend. It typically brings aromas of red fruits such as raspberry and strawberry, along with herbal notes like bell pepper and tobacco. These grapes have thinner skins and can be more challenging to cultivate, requiring specific growing conditions to reach their full potential.
When Merlot and Cabernet Franc are combined, the result is a well-balanced wine with various flavours and aromas. The blend often exhibits a Bordeaux wine's medium to full body, along with a smooth texture and moderate tannins. The specific flavour profile can vary depending on the proportions of each grape in the blend and the terroir and winemaking techniques employed.
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Description
A sleeper of the vintage, this well-executed 2008 St.-Emilion exhibits a dark plum/ruby/purple-tinged color as well as a glorious bouquet of sweet black cherries, licorice and powdered limestone, a good texture, medium to full body and a pure style. Combining substance with finesse, it should age effortlessly for 15+ years.
Robert M. Parker, Jr. - Wine Advocate - Issue#194 - May 2011
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