Drink 2009-2022
-Parker's Wine Buyer's Guide No 7

Given the performance of this somewhat mystifying but beautifully situated estate in St.-Julien, we might be seeing a resurrection in quality, or at least much more consistency. A beauty in an up-front, supple, sexy style is the generous and savory, dark ruby /plum-colored 2003 Beychevelle. Medium to full-bodied with loads of fruit and glycerin, it is much more approachable than usual, but also generously proportioned and exceptionally well-balanced. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2022.

Tasted at Bordeaux Index’s “10-Year On” tasting in London. The Beychevelle 2003 has light animally, gamey bouquet with plenty of Provencal herbs and just a touch of sandalwood. The palate is medium-bodied with a touch of aggression on the entry. It is very foursquare with slightly subdued black fruit, pencil shavings and cedar, whilst the earthy finish is showing just a touch of attenuation. There is good backbone here, but it is not a Saint Julien I would cellar long-term. Tasted March 2013.