Chateau Gazin   Chateau Gazin

2001 Chateau Gazin

By Chateau Gazin

2001 Chateau Gazin from Chateau Gazin, Pomerol, Bordeaux

The turn of the millennium heralded a series of laudable vintages from Bordeaux, amongst which the 2001 Chateau Gazin from Chateau Gazin asserts its own distinct persona. Pomerol's small, yet profoundly revered canvas of vineyards, has long been a tapestry for producing deeply concentrated and velvety wines; the 2001 vintage is no exception to this tradition.

 

A Harmonious Vintage in the Shadow of Giants

While the limelight may have been unfairly appropriated by the blockbuster 2000 vintage that preceded it, astute investors and connoisseurs recognise the harmonious finesse that defines the 2001 harvest. With a somewhat cooler and damp start to the growing season, it was the sublime Indian summer that unfurled the quintessence of Merlot-dominated blends in Pomerol, granting 2001 Chateau Gazin an unassailable balance of depth and precision.

 

Subtlety and Complexity: A Testament to Time

The 2001 Chateau Gazin unfurls in the glass like a brooding sonnet, with layers of ripe black fruits entwined with truffles and a hint of iron estate earthiness - a Pomerol signature. Two decades on, there's a genteel suppleness to its tannins and an elegant structure that speaks of both its pedigree and perfectly poised evolution.

The innate richness is still apparent in every sip, yet there's an enigmatic subtlety that now frames the wine; secondary notes of cigar box, leather, and delightfully integrated oak suggest that this vintage is at its zenith, with potential to develop further nuances for those patient enough to wait.

An investment in the 2001 Chateau Gazin promises not just returns but a vignette into an oft-overlooked year, where complexity and elegance triumph over sheer power. This is a vintage to be discussed with reverence amongst those who understand that sophistication in Bordeaux sometimes whispers rather than shouts.

Such poised vintages make astute additions to any investment portfolio. It's within these refined expressions where seasoned palates uncover treasures, akin to uncovering Old Masters in an exclusive gallery. The wise investor will note that such gems maintain their allure beyond temporal trends.

For aficionados seeking a touchstone to Pomerol's understated excellence amidst Bordeaux's more exuberant years, the 2001 Chateau Gazin stands as an eloquent testament to time’s gentle touch upon Merlot. Serenity is seldom spoken of with such conviction as in this carefully aged offering from Chateau Gazin.

Current market price

£1,600.00

12x75cl

Highest score

94

POP score

114.29

Scores and tasting notes

94

A sleeper of the vintage, and possibly the finest Gazin I have ever tasted, the 2001 reveals the best integration of oak at this property in many years. An opaque plum/purple color is accompanied by a glorious bouquet of burning embers, roasted meats, espresso, and sweet plum and blackberry fruit. Richer and deeper than it appeared from barrel, with a tremendous finish, this full-bodied, impressive effort represents a breakthrough for Gazin. There are 6,000 cases of this 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Cabernet Franc blend. One of the more backward wines of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2020+.

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 June 2004

Vintage performance