Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil 2006 Tasting Notes

Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil 2004

Our Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil this year is from the 2004 vintage, when conditions returned to normal after the excessive heat of 2003. This made for a longer ripening period, which has resulted in well-structured wines with an excellent balance between fruit and tannin. If 2003 was about power, 2004 is a return to classical elegance; the perfect blend of redcurrant fruit, juicy acidity and velvety tannin, and aromas of red fruit and violets give way to a palate of rich complexity and length.

This wine is most definitely a food wine, and one with tremendous potential. With roast or grilled meats it tastes superb, and it will be the perfect partner for salads and cold meats. It can even be served lightly chilled during the long, hot days of summer; however, it will also gain in complexity if stored for five or six years. So, enjoy the wine this summer, but do put some bottles to one side to retaste over the next few years.