Chateau Le Gay   Chateau le Gay

2013 Chateau le Gay

By Chateau Le Gay

2013 Chateau le Gay from Chateau Le Gay, Pomerol, Bordeaux

The 2013 vintage in Bordeaux was not without its challenges, as any seasoned observer of the region would note. The year was marked by variable weather and necessitated a scrupulous selection by the winemakers. Amidst these hurdles, Chateau le Gay distinguished itself, particularly in Pomerol where merlot grapes find a heartfelt expression.

 

A Vintage That Demanded Expertise

Confronted with the whims of 2013's weather, the wine artisans at Chateau le Gay finessed an exquisite expression of their terroir. While some estates buckled under nature's test, they excelled, producing a wine that not only speaks of resilience but offers complex layers ripe for unraveling by an astute palate.

 

Finessed Flavours Reflective of a Tricky Terroir

The 2013 Chateau le Gay offers a testimony to Pomerol's capability even in less than ideal conditions. One encounters a complexity within its embrace; dark cherries and plums dance amidst tobacco and earthy undertones, revealing deft handling of fruit matured unevenly by a capricious climate. There's an uprightness to the tannins, suggestive of a wine poised for development with further cellaring. It ages like an introspective raconteur, unfurling stories of its vintage one glass at a time.

Wine investors often seek out the star performers from blockbuster vintages; however, there is nuanced value and even thrill in wines like the 2013 Chateau le Gay. It plays against expectation, promising not only diversification in a connoisseur’s portfolio but also a unique snapshot of Bordeaux’s adaptive artistry.

Investment and Enjoyment Intertwined

This is one for the patient investor who values intrinsic wine quality paired with the proposition of maturation potential. The 2013 Chateau le Gay from Chateau Le Gay might fly under the radar compared to its more famed vintage siblings but therein lies its allure. Patient cellaring will allow this vintage to evolve, likely rewarding those foresighted enough to look beyond immediate accolades towards long-term gratification.

Current market price

£590.00

12x75cl

Highest score

91

POP score

53.64

Scores and tasting notes

91

The 2013 Le Gay has a pretty, well defined, quite fresh bouquet with vivacious crushed strawberry and red cherry aromas, a little cold stone just underneath, almost Pinot Noir-like in personality. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, quite juicy compared to its peers with respectable depth and fine tannin. This is a lovely 2013 as I found in barrel, with a lilting red berry and spice finish that leaves you wanting to take another sip.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 October 2016

Vintage performance