Chateau Saint Pierre   Saint Pierre

2013 Saint-Pierre

By Chateau Saint-Pierre

2013 Saint-Pierre from Chateau Saint-Pierre, St-Julien, Bordeaux

The 2013 vintage in Bordeaux presented several challenges for vintners; however, the resolute and skilled team at Chateau Saint-Pierre harnessed the potential of their terroir admirably, finessing the climatic vicissitudes into a Saint-Pierre offering both grace and structure.

 

An Illuminating Glimpse into a Tougher Vintage

In tasting the 2013 Saint-Pierre, savvy investors and collectors will appreciate its articulate representation of the St-Julien appellation even amidst a less-heralded year. Meriting attention is the way this wine exemplifies the estate's ability to harness restraint, allowing for a tapestry of complex subtleties to be woven through its profile – no small feat in a year that tested even the most seasoned producers.

 

Defying Expectations with Poise

Met by a cool and wet start to the season, followed by a challenging summer, Chateau Saint-Pierre's adept management is evident in the creation of this nuanced claret. The vintage's moderate temperatures have yielded a lighter but charming style of wine with finesse. Understated yet compelling aromas of dark berry fruits mingle with cedar and tobacco whispers on the nose, while the palate unfurls neat tannins neatly enrobed in the fruit, leading to a modestly persistent finish.

The realities of the 2013 vintage called for precise timing and selective harvesting techniques, all of which has translated into a Saint-Pierre that provides an unexpectedly approachable character in its youth while holding potential for short to medium-term cellaring.


 

A Vintage Reflective Investment

While an investment in "off-vintages" like 2013 can sometimes be overlooked, this presents an opportunity for astute collectors. The 2013 Saint-Pierre stands as a testament to the efforts taken by Chateau Saint-Pierre to produce an admirable wine under strenuous conditions. It commands respect as a solid addition to diversified investment portfolios, offering an opportunity for those seeking value and finesse from one of Bordeaux’s lesser sung vintages, while maintaining a keen eye on its gradual evolution over time.

Market price (GBP)

£260.00

12x75cl

Highest score

89

POP score

28.89

Scores and tasting notes

88-90

This is a solidly made effort in 2013 that could turn out to be outstanding. The final blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot, came from yields of 35 hectoliters per hectare, harvested between October 8 and 15. About 54% of the production made it into this wine, which shows a deep, dark, ruby/plum purple color, rich berry fruit intermixed with cedar wood, locally evolved forest floor, incense notes and spice-box. It has a medium-bodied mouth feel and round tannins. The overall impression is a fruit-forward, well-made wine that should drink well for 10-12 years after release.

Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #214 Aug 2014

Vintage performance