The Chateau was established in the mid 1800’s by the Fourcaud Family of Chateau Cheval Blanc fame, and was named Chateau Couperie after its address. In 1955 the property was acquired by Serge Dassault and promoted into the “Grand Cru Classé” in 1969. The Winery underwent some serious quality development programs, and in 2012 forged a commercial and technical relationship with Domaine Baron de Rothschild.
Overall, the 2016 vintage for Saint-Émilion was excellent with some degree of inconsistency. It was known for a wide range of excellent easy drinking wines as well as heavyweights needing cellaring for decades to come. Michel Rolland is the Consulting oenologist- more reason to want to taste this.
This is a blend of 70% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from old siliceous and sandy limestone soils and aged for 12 – 14 months in 100% one year old barrels.
Expressive notes of dark fruits- blackberries and black currants, plums, and dark cherries, with a subtle pepper and vegetal note.
This youthful wine, while still evolving, has charm and charisma with obvious synergy between the varietals. Lovely black and red fruits dominate the palate with
secondary notes of coffee and dark chocolate complimenting spices, oak, and tobacco. Smooth mouthfeel with great balance and acidity and tannins in check. Smooth elegant finish with impressive length.
I can see this cellaring out another 10 years, to 2035.
Food pairings should include your favorite red meat dishes, game, and pepperoni pizza.
Final thought: yes, to my surprise, the cork split, and only 9 years old.
Vine to Table 