Chateau Saint-Pierre 1996 Cru Classe, St. Julien

Wow! Here's a Classified Growth Bordeaux that's been aging gracefully in the Chateau's cellars for 20 years!! Though Chateau Saint-Pierre is neighbors to Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou and Chateau Gruad Larose, it is perhaps the stealthiest, most under-the-radar of all of the Classified growths which has kept the price well below that of its neighbors. The estate was purchased in 1982 by the well-known Bordeaux personality and vintner, the late Henri Martin who restored the Chateau and brought modern improvements to the cellars and winemaking. The vineyard is 42 acres of mature vines located in the middle of the commune of Beychevelle, planted 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc.

1996 was an outstanding Bordeaux vintage rated as high as 96 points and on release the Wine Spectator said "Burly, traditional claret. Great dark color and intense aromas of black cherry and berry with hints of mineral and spice. Full-bodied, with full tannins and a sweet berry aftertaste. Very chewy. Best after 2002." but what's most exciting about this wine is that all of the aging has been done for you. This wine has classic balance and style and a velvety softness that only comes with careful aging. The nose shows cedar, tobacco, graphite, cassis, and exotic spice. On the palate the flavors echo the nose but with lifting acidity that makes it utterly mouthwatering. There's a limited quantity that just arrived in our warehouse. 20+ year old Classified Bordeaux doesn't come along every day so don't miss this rare opportunity to experience it.