Verkostungsnotizen
Vinous 88
The 2000 Chateau d Aiguilhe is a vintage that I had never tasted. I have often thought that this Cotes de Castillon has a propensity to age well, and this millennial proves it. Aged entirely in new oak for 18 months (because they had to renew the barrel stock), it reveals lively blackberry, briar and light loam aromas on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied with more red fruit, cranberry, raspberry, touches of tea leaves and tobacco and just a little rustic dryness that creeps in toward the finish. Fine.
Anticipated maturity: 2021-2025
Robert Parker 90
The outstanding 2000 exhibits a dense ruby/purple color as well as a glorious nose of creosote, licorice, blackberry and cassis liqueur, medium to full body, tremendous texture, and impressive ripe fruit. It was bottled unfined and unfiltered after spending time in 80% new French oak, on its lees, with frequent batonnage as well as micro-oxygenation. This is serious stuff as well as a sleeper of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: now-2015. This large estate, with a fabulous castle on the property, consists of 106 acres planted with 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. With wine consultant Stephane Derenoncourt in the background, this is a property to take seriously.
Anticipated maturity: 2003-2015
