| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | France > Bordeaux > Right Bank > St Emilion |
| Colour | Red |
| Type | Still |
The 2008 has completely shut down, no doubt because of its striking minerality. Coming in at 14.5% natural alcohol and cropped at 21 hectoliters per hectare, it is extremely concentrated, tannic and broodingly backward. On each of the three occasions I tasted it the wine was difficult to penetrate because of its tannic structure. Nevertheless, there is plenty of weight, purity, texture and length. This 2008 is only for patient connoisseurs who are willing to give it 7-8 years of bottle age. It should last for 25+ years and may possibly eclipse the 2010.
Sweet, ripe and meaty. Massive and mouthfilling with lots of sweet fruit and oaky spice and also a savoury depth. Concentrated but also has lovely freshness and good length. More impressive than elegant but impressive nevertheless. (JH)
Fashioned from very low yields of 21 hectoliters per hectare, the 2008 Bellevue seemed to be as backward and unevolved as any of the 2008s, apparently because of the late malolactic fermentations and more elevated acidities in this vintage. A blend of 98% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc that tipped the scales at 14% natural alcohol, this wine is painfully tannic and backward, but oh, so promising. While it offers flavors reminiscent of liquid chalk combined with creme de cassis, kirsch, and licorice, it will take time to fully express itself, thus my score is conservative. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030+?
