Château Beychevelle 1981 - Saint-Julien

History of Château Beychevelle

Château Beychevelle, nicknamed the "Versailles of the Médoc," is one of the jewels of the Saint-Julien appellation. Founded in the 16th century, this renowned estate embodies elegance and tradition. With its magnificent gravelly hillsides near the Gironde River, it produces wines of finesse and balance, renowned for their longevity and refinement. The name "Beychevelle" comes from the tribute paid by ships that lowered their sails in front of the property as a sign of respect to its owner, Admiral Duke of Épernon.

Presentation of the Saint-Julien appellation

The Saint-Julien appellation, located in the Médoc region on the left bank of the Gironde, is renowned for producing wines with a perfect balance of power and finesse. Representing only 6% of the Médoc's land area, it is distinguished by the consistent quality of its Grands Crus Classés. The well-drained gravelly soils provide ideal conditions for the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot grape varieties, which primarily produce these complex and elegant wines, which have excellent aging potential.

Presentation of the 1981 vintage in Bordeaux

The 1981 vintage was marked by unpredictable weather. After a hot summer, abundant rain in September required a quick harvest to avoid diluting the berries. The best estates, thanks to careful sorting and careful vinification, were able to produce balanced wines with an elegant structure. The Médoc reds, particularly those from Saint-Julien, offer classic red fruit aromas and supple tannins, ideal for modern consumption.

Presentation and specificities of this bottle

The 1981 Château Beychevelle is a testament to the tradition and expertise of this Grand Cru Classé. This mature wine embodies the finesse and elegance typical of the Saint-Julien appellation.

Condition and specificities of the bottle:

• Overall Condition: Excellent.
• Label: Slightly patinated, but perfectly legible.
• Expected tasting notes:
  • Color: Garnet red with tiled highlights, testifying to its age.
  • Nose: Complex, blending tertiary aromas of undergrowth, leather, and notes of candied red fruits, with a touch of cedar and tobacco.
  • Palate: Balanced, with melted tannins. A nice acidity brings freshness and length, on evolved flavors of prunes, licorice and a hint of cocoa on the finish.
  • Evolution: Consume now to enjoy its peak.

Technical details:

• Name: Saint-Julien.
• Classification: 4th Grand Cru Classé in 1855.
• Grape varieties: 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot.
• Vinification: Traditional, with aging in French oak barrels (around 50% new).
• Alcohol: 12.5%.

Food and Wine Pairing

Château Beychevelle 1981 goes wonderfully with:

• A fillet of beef with morels,
• A roasted duck breast,
• A risotto with wild mushrooms,
• Or mature cheeses like Brillat-Savarin or Salers.