1996 Chateau Valandraud
By Chateau Valandraud
1996 Chateau Valandraud from Chateau Valandraud, Saint-Emilion, Bordeaux
The 1996 vintage from Chateau Valandraud shines as a gem in the crown of Bordeaux’s venerated Saint-Emilion region. This year is marked by a concord of favourable conditions that allowed grapes to achieve notable levels of concentration and maturity - fostering wines with remarkable depth and structure which have enthralled investors and connoisseurs alike.
A Vintage Defined by Poise and Longevity
In the specific context of the 1996 Chateau Valandraud from Chateau Valandraud, there unfolds a tapestry of complexity derived from meticulous viticulture and precise winemaking. As an exemplar of fine wine investment, this vintage encapsulates the essence of its terroir; the judicious alignment of climate, soil, and human touch distinguishes it from other years.
A tasting reveals a harmonious balance between ripened dark fruit and refined tannic presence. It is a composition that speaks confidently of its heritage, with earthy undertones and the subtle influence of oak marrying gracefully within the glass. With age, it has cultivated a poise that enhances its already intrinsic elegance, making it a formidable presence in any investor's portfolio.
Maturity Meeting Market
The passage of time has mellowed the wine's initial assertions yet invigorated its latent potential. The 1996 Chateau Valandraud now emerges from slumber as a prime candidate for both immediate gratification and continued cellarage. It stands to reason that both collectors and investors who understand the dance of supply and demand will recognise this vintage's perspicacious place within the fine wine market.
Concluding Reflections
In summation, the 1996 Chateau Valandraud from Chateau Valandraud is endowed with an enigmatic allure that only such exceptional conveyances of time and place can proffer. For those who seek to diversify their holdings with blue-chip wines, this particular vintage presents itself as one imbued with investment-worthy merit - a true testament to the prowess of Saint-Emilion’s venerable vinicultural lineage.
Market price (CAD)
$2,800.00
12x75cl
Highest score
89
POP score
186.67
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted blind at the Valandraud vertical at the property, the 1996 Valandraud has quite an ostentatious bouquet with copious menthol-tinged red fruit, light peppermint notes - all atypical for this growing season. It might by a little heady but it is feels nicely focused. The palate is medium-bodied with an impressive weight in the mouth, lightly spiced red berry fruit, quite ferrous, almost Pomerol-like with a focused brown spice-tinged finish that lingers nicely in the mouth. It loses some of its harmony towards the finish, becomes loose and lacks the depth of grip of the 1995 Valandraud. There are attractive, light tobacco and white pepper notes lingering on the aftertaste. Drink over the next 4-5 years. Tasted December 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 February 2017