2004 Saint-Pierre
By Chateau Saint-Pierre
The 2004 Saint-Pierre from Chateau Saint-Pierre, St-Julien, Bordeaux
Within the prestigious appellation of St-Julien lies a parcel that, while discreet in extension, is monumental in its offerings—the venerable Chateau Saint-Pierre. Their 2004 Saint-Pierre yields a reflection of a season marked by challenge and triumph, harnessing the fertile terroirs of Bordeaux to produce a vintage both noble and compelling for serious collectors.
An Underrated Vintage with Poise
The 2004 vintage in Bordeaux quietly emerged from the shadows of the acclaimed millennium vintages that preceded it. By deftly navigating a growing period that defined itself with an unpredictable start—an unseasonably cool spring followed by a warm yet periodically wet summer—Chateau Saint-Pierre sculpted a wine of both structure and surprise. It's the quintessence of diligence meeting opportunity, resulting in a collectable bottle that has matured with grace under savvy stewardship.
Elegance and Endurance in the Glass
The 2004 Saint-Pierre encapsulates St-Julien’s quintessential balance of power and elegance. Exhibiting an ensemble of blackcurrant with a whisper of cedar, the bouquet suggests a history still unfolding within its carmine depths. With two decades maturation, the tannins have been coaxed into a silkier disposition, allowing the subtle spice notes—a hallmark of this distinguished estate—to dance upon the palate unencumbered.
An adept muse for the seasoned investor, this vintage aligns with those seeking refinement over bombast in their portfolio. Its current evolution presents a profile that gratifies immediate consumption yet argues persuasively for further cellaring.
Conviction and Investment Potential
Retrospectively, the 2004 Saint-Pierre displays all the hallmarks one desires for an investment-grade wine—it holds an air of understated accomplishment. As time progresses, its subtleties gain gravity; each passing year ushers deeper complexities that etch further value into this collectable vintage. Amidst a sea of more vociferous years, the harmonious chord struck by this St-Julien offering resounds sweetly for those attuned to polished longevity.
Indeed, there is merit in this quietly confident expression from Chateau Saint-Pierre—a conviction of quality that stands as an ode to judicious cultivation and compositional artistry. As it continues its journey through maturation, the 2004 Saint-Pierre will undoubtedly enhance any discerning collector's cellar and investment portfolio alike.
Market price (USD)
$540.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
36.67
Scores and tasting notes
This somewhat under-the-radar classified growth has produced a dense ruby/purple-colored 2004 with superb density of black currant and cherry fruit intermixed with subtle herbs, licorice, and forest floor characteristics. Medium to full-bodied, rich, and muscular, it is an atypically powerful 2004 that should be at its finest between 2012-2025. It is a sleeper of the vintage.
Robert Parker Jr - Wine Advocate #171
Tasted at the Syndicat de Pomerol. The 2004 has a fleshy, 'wine gum' scented nose with fresh strawberry and a touch of toffee. The palate is simple but balanced with fleshy Merlot fruit; soft and supple with a delicate touch of coca towards the finish. Tasted December 2010.
Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jul 2011