2001 Château Beychevelle
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Tasting notes
A wonderful pairing to the 2000 vintage, and a great example of St Julien finesse and welcome. Perhaps a little less depth than the 2000 at this point, after a strong decade where the 2001 was the dominant vintage of the pair, it is beginning to be overtaken in terms of structure and fruit delivery but this remains an utterly charming wine (and a great teaching pair for how vintages are about choosing when to drink rather than just a simple which one is best). Tobacco, smoked caramel, rose petals, raspberries, fine tannins, cocoa dusting, cold ash, ready to drink but will continue to age. Harvest September 1 to October 14, 60% new oak.
Critic scores
Wine Spectator
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The 2001 Beychevelle has more exuberance on the nose compared to the 2000, with brambly red fruit, leather, loam and cedar scents better defined and focused. The palate is well-balanced with fine delineation. Crisp and taut, a judicious touch of spice lends tension, gently building towards the white pepper and orange rind-tinged finish. Delicious. A point. Tasted at the Beychevelle vertical at the property.
The 2001 Beychevelle has been an inconsistent performer in the past. Now at 20 years, the aromatics seem to have cohered, displaying slightly more delineation than the 2000 and offering black fruit, loam, mint and a touch of pine cone. The lightly spiced palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, lithe and focused. A dash of white pepper and blood orange appears toward the finish. This might well be the best bottle that I have encountered.
About the producer
With greater care in the vineyard and more precision in the winery, Ch. Beychevelle's star is rising. That's in large part due to the leadership of Philippe Blanc and investment by current owners, Japanese brewers Suntory and French wine group Castel.