CHATEAU CANTEMERLE 5eme Grand Cru Classe, Haut-Medoc 2021 Bottle

Description

Château Cantemerle is a winery in the Haut-Médoc appellation of the Bordeaux wine region of France, in the commune of Macau. The wine produced here was the final estate to be classified as one of eighteen Cinquièmes Crus (Fifth Growths) in the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855. Its absence from the classification map featured at the 1855 Exposition Universelle de Paris created some controversy, even though it has been listed on all maps published after 1855. Some sources will include an asterisk next to Château Cantemerle listing in reference to this controversy. The estate has a long history in the Haut-Médoc with records detailing its existence since at least the 12th century and wine production since at least the 14th century. In the 19th century, the estate was hard hit by the phylloxera epidemic as well as grapevine attacks of downy mildew, after which production dropped nearly 50%. Towards the end of the 20th century, the estate was sold to French insurance group Les Mutuelles d'Assurance du Bâtiment et des Travaux Public who have contributed significant investment in the estate's vineyards and winemaking facilities.

This Haut-Médoc wine offers a refined aroma of blackcurrant, plum, and cedar, with hints of spice and earth. On the palate, it’s elegant and balanced, with silky tannins and vibrant acidity, leading to a long, persisting finish. It beautifully combines power and finesse, showcasing classic Bordeaux character. Ideal now but with the potential to age gracefully and deepen in complexity over time.