Château Rousselle 2006 Tasting Notes

Côtes de Bourg 2004

2004 was a wonderful year in Bordeaux, as it had a long, warm and generally dry, growing season. The long ripening period produced an elegant wine which is phenolically ripe (a perfect combination of fully matured skins and pips which give soft, smooth tannins). It is perfectly structured and will continue to improve in bottle in the medium term.

The long summer has also resulted in a slight change in the blend of our exclusive cuvée for 2004. The blend of Merlot (60%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (35%) is supplemented by 5% Malbec, which ripened perfectly under the ideal conditions, and has been added to the blend to give softness and body. Of medium depth, this is currently a youthful ruby colour with gentle aromas of blackcurrant and spicy oak. Juicy blackcurrant fruit reappears on the palate, as does the subtle oakiness, with a touch of liquorice and an attractive earthiness.

This is a beautifully structured wine that will age well for another five or more years. It is ideal with red meat, especially roast lamb and roast beef, but also game, casseroles, beef stroganoff and hard cheeses.