Château Monconseil-Gazin 2005 Tasting Notes

Blaye 2002

The weather in 2002 proved as contrary as in 2001, demanding once again the very best from the very best winemakers.  After a topsy-turvy summer the autumn provided good spells of hot dry weather enabling most grapes to be harvested in prime condition.  As the harvest favoured the Merlot and Malbec grapes, the blend of our 2002 was adjusted to 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Malbec.  Malbec is super for adding finesse of fruit and colour.

The wine was matured in oak barrels, 50% of them new and 50% one year old, to give the optimum balance between structure and fruit.  The initial nose is very promising with a powerful aroma of vanilla and blackberries.  The tannins from the oak combine with the ripe fruit to give an opulent and rich wine that is ideal with red meat (try roast lamb or roast beef), game, rich casseroles and, in a few years’ time, hard strong cheeses.  The 2002 was awarded a Seal of Approval at the International Wine Challenge in 2004 - the third successive award for this wine. Drink now or keep for up to 10 years.