Château Rousselle 2005 Tasting Notes

Côtes de Bourg 2003 

2003 was a record-breaking year in France, and the UK, for hot weather.  An already hot July lead into a sizzling August, and grapes were harvested some three weeks ahead of normal. Inevitably yields were down, but the quality and richness of the wines were remarkable.  This was an exceptional vintage making wines that are atypical in many ways, but showing all the best attributes of the Appellation. Summer weather like 2003 arrives at best once per generation!

Our exclusive cuvée 2003 is a blend of 68% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Cabernet Franc.  The wine was matured half in oak barrels and half in cement tanks to give the optimum balance between structure and fruit.  The tannins from the oak combine with the fruit to give a fresh yet full-flavoured wine.  Bright ruby in colour, it has a cherry bouquet, with ripe blackcurrants and a touch of liquorice and chocolate on the palate.  It is full and powerful, but well balanced, and has good length. 

You can drink this wine now thanks to its supple tannins, but it will also improve in bottle over the next 2 - 3 years.  It is ideal with red meat - especially roast lamb and roast beef - game, casseroles, beef stroganoff and hard cheeses.