1996 Trotanoy
By Chateau Trotanoy
1996 Trotanoy from Chateau Trotanoy, Pomerol, Bordeaux
Reflecting on the esteemed 1996 vintage from Chateau Trotanoy, one finds a wine that encapsulates the essence of Pomerol's unique terroir. The vintage stands as a testament to both nature's providence and human craftsmanship in one of Bordeaux's most revered appellations.
A Remarkable Year for Pomerol
The year 1996 was characteristically notable across Bordeaux for its climatic duality. Following a balanced season, with a hot summer and timely rains, the Pomerol region saw its merlot grapes reach optimal ripeness. It is within this harmonious interplay that the 1996 Trotanoy from Chateau Trotanoy clinched its status as an investment-worthy collectible.
Encapsulating Elegance and Structure
The prowess of the 1996 vintage reveals itself upon first pour; a rich hue foreshadows the depth within. On the nose, the wine unfolds with matured aromas of black cherries entwined with subtle terra cotta whispers—a nod to its time-honoured maturation. It pirouettes gracefully on the palate; complex dark fruit flavours merge with undertones of truffle and a hint of ironstone, characteristic of Trotanoy's iron-clad soils. Tannins have softened exquisitely into a silky web, carrying this wine through an enduring finish—an emblem of skilled vinification married with impeccable terroir.
This Pomerol vintage emerges as an archetypal illustration of fine-tuned balance—a confluence of power and elegance. With two decades in repose, the 1996 Trotanoy exhibits a noble maturity, ensuring it continues to allure collectors and investors alike.
Investment Worthy: A Connoisseur's Prize
The 1996 Trotanoy from Chateau Trotanoy is a paragon among Bordeaux wines, ideal for discerning investors seeking to embellish their portfolios with a bottle that promises both pleasure and potential gain. Each sip evokes a deep appreciation for the distinguished vintage it represents—a wine that not only reflects its illustrious provenance but also stands as a beacon of investment potential in the luxurious world of fine wines.
In sum, for collectors experiencing or anticipating the multifaceted joys of this fine Pomerol exemplar, the 1996 Trotanoy is not merely a wine but an artefact of vinous virtue—an impeccable choice for enhancing one's cellar and investment strategy alike.
Market price (GBP)
£1,820.00
12x75cl
Highest score
89
POP score
202.22
Scores and tasting notes
A deep black/garnet core. The nose takes about ten minutes to open but reluctantly reveals scents of dark chocolate, savoury fruits, a faint hint of freshly cut ginger and blackberry. A medium-bodied palate, quite forward with the Cabernet Franc quite noticeable. The tannins are lacking a little structure (like many 1996 Pomerols) and the overall character is rather sulky, dare I say, dour? Dr and conservative on the finish. Perhaps too classic even for this classicist but it may improve. Drink 2010-2015. Tasted July 2007.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Dec 2007
Dark ruby with surprising pink at the rim, the 1996 Trotanoy seems very tightly knit, with dusty tannins, hints of sweet and sour cherry fruit, finishing to a somewhat liquid minerality and spicy note. The wine has plenty of muscle, very high levels of tannin, but a somewhat unimpressive mid-palate. Whether it fleshes out remains to be seen, but I am somewhat doubtful. This wine seems to be increasingly less impressive. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2016. Last tasted, 2/02.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 31 December 2002