2008 Beychevelle
By Chateau Beychevelle
2008 Beychevelle from Chateau Beychevelle, St-Julien, Bordeaux, France
The revered 2008 Beychevelle from Chateau Beychevelle holds a cherished position in the hierarchy of fine Bordeaux offerings. Its creation hails from a vintage that overcame early on-season tribulations to produce wines of remarkable character and depth. What initially presented itself as an implausible vintage, marred by erratic weather, blossomed into one that captivated the palates of aficionados worldwide with its harmonious expression.
The Quintessence of St-Julien’s Tenacity
Patience was indeed a virtue for the vigilant vignerons at Chateau Beychevelle as the latter part of 2008 granted ideal conditions necessary for optimum grape maturation. The resulting harvest encapsulated an alchemy of poised fruit and a stratum of resolved tannins; a feat of viticultural endurance, yielding a wine poised for the cellar.
A Vintage Distilled with Elegance
Imbued with the classical aromas of dark berries and subtle hints of cedar and tobacco, the 2008 Beychevelle resonates with the finesse synonymous with St-Julien. The palate reveals a splendidly structured body – firm yet supple – adorned with layers of blackcurrant, plums, and an enduring finish graced with spice notes and velvety tannins. It is a vintage wherein the elegance of its terroir triumphantly manifests through climatic adversity.
In considering wine investment potential, this vintage illustrates poignantly how resilience on both vine and vineyard master's behalf can translate into exceptional wines that thrive in the market. The 2008 Beychevelle is no exception; it harbours an unwavering allure for collectors seeking to embellish their portfolios with robust yet refined Bordeaux vintages.
Conclusion: An Enduring Investment Vintage
With more than a decade since its birth, the 2008 Beychevelle from Chateau Beychevelle endures in both stature and structure. It stands as testament to the tenacious spirit of St-Julien's winemaking tradition amidst challenging seasons. For investors seeking to infuse longevity and grace into their collections, this vintage proffers an articulate choice, promising returns in both taste and value appreciation over time.
Market price (SGD)
$1,320.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
65.83
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted ex-chateau and single blind in Southwold. The Beychevelle 2008 appears to be improving in bottle, even at this early juncture. Sure, there remains some oak to be subsumed on the nose, but it does not overwhelm its attractive aromas of crisp blackberry, cassis and a touch of graphite. It is more Pauillac in style than Saint Julien. The palate is medium-bodied with firm, grippy tannins. There is impressive precision and mineralite on the finish. This is an excellent Saint Julien. Tasted January 2012.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Mar 2012
This ageworthy, elegant, well-made Beychevelle displays copious red and black cherry fruit notes intertwined with dusty, loamy soil and oak undertones, decent acidity, moderate tannin and impressive intensity as well as length. Give it 1-3 years of cellaring and enjoy it over the next 15-18 years.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 1 May 2011