2003 Saint-Pierre
By Chateau Saint-Pierre
2003 Saint-Pierre from Chateau Saint-Pierre, St-Julien, Bordeaux
In the pantheon of Bordeaux vintages, the summer-sweltered 2003 season stands distinct, a meteorological outlier that sculpted wines with rare verve and vigour. Among its luminaries is the 2003 Saint-Pierre from Chateau Saint-Pierre, a bottle that eloquently articulates the narrative of its torrid year.
A Vintage Carved from Heat
The hallmark of the 2003 Bordeaux vintage was its blazing summer, yielding grapes with high sugar concentrations and potent tannins. The 2003 Saint-Pierre captures this intensity within its core. Unfolding across the palate are layers of ripe blackberries, cassis, and plums, stitched together with subtle threads of tobacco and cedar endowed by judicious oak maturation. It is a robust expression of a St-Julien claret; powerful yet tempered by a polished structure.
Evolving Gracefully
Two decades now have passed since the harvest of this vintage, offering an invaluable perspective on the aging trajectory of the 2003s. Time has graced the 2003 Saint-Pierre with softened tannins and an enhanced aromatic medley. It invites engagement now or contemplation in your cellar for several years to come.
An Astute Choice for Investment
The stature of the 2003 Saint-Pierre lends itself admirably to investment, capturing both the curiosity of collectors and the respect of connoisseurs. Its provenance from Chateau Saint-Pierre further solidifies its desirability; the chateau's commitment to excellence is encapsulated elegantly in this offering.
One must consider each vintage in its uniqueness when cultivating a fine wine portfolio; the 2003 Saint-Pierre indeed commands such attention. As it continues to mature, it presents an exquisite charm, making it a worthy addition to any discerning investor's collection.
Concluding Thoughts on this Singular Vintage
Distinguished by both time and terroir, the 2003 Saint-Pierre from Chateau Saint-Pierre offers an intense yet harmonious exploration into an extraordinary year for Bordeaux. Its compelling composition cuts a fine figure among peers and predicates its favourable evolution in years ahead. A consummate blend of power and poise, this vintage exhibits just how gracefully Bordeaux can age even under the most searing climatic confrontations.
Market price (GBP)
£570.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
43.85
Scores and tasting notes
A powerhouse effort from this small classified growth St.-Julien estate, the 2003's thick, unctuous-looking purple color is accompanied by an explosive perfume of cigar tobacco, melted licorice, incense, creme de cassis, and spice box. Opulent, full-bodied, and rich with firm tannin and higher glycerin and alcohol than usual, it should be cellared for 4-5 years and enjoyed over the following two decades.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #164
Tasted at Bordeaux Index's '10-Year On' tasting in London. The St. Pierre has a light bouquet with raspberry, wild hedgerow, briary and an exotic dried mango note to add a little intrigue. The palate is medium-bodied with lithe tannins and a soft mouthfeel that belies decent structure underneath. This is a composed, rather understated Saint Julien, not complex but it appears to be ageing better than I expected. Tasted March 2013.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal May 2013