Chateau Valandraud   Chateau Valandraud

1997 Chateau Valandraud

By Chateau Valandraud

1997 Chateau Valandraud from Chateau Valandraud, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux

In the sphere of fine Bordeaux, the 1997 vintage often finds itself eclipsed by the more auspicious years that surround it. However, astute palates will know that such vintages can yield hidden gems of immense character. Amongst these, the 1997 Chateau Valandraud from Chateau Valandraud in Saint-Émilion stands as a testament to skilled viticulture and innovative winemaking.

 

The Epoch of Ascent: A Discovery in Time

While the 1997 vintage encountered challenges - notably a cooler summer that necessitated precise grape selection - the finely-tuned expertise at Chateau Valandraud teased out a cascade of flavours that seem to be caressed by time itself. The resultant wine is a distinguished portrayal of Merlot's velvety magnificence when backed by the subtle structure provided by its Cabernet Franc counterpart. Amidst its peers, it resonates as a thoughtful investment for those with discerning collections.

 

Embracing Unique Characteristics

Contrary to the vigour of hotter years, the 1997 Chateau Valandraud exhibits an opulent bouquet with an earthy edge – a miscellany of black truffle and sweet tobacco that seduces before even a sip is taken. Swiftly following on the palate is a parade of dark fruits and a hint of undergrowth which speaks to its period of development. Here lies a graceful ageing where tannins and acidity have commingled into a harmonious balance; it is as if each element has finally settled into its perfect place after decades of discourse.

Critically speaking, this wine's charm also lies in the fact that it's presently in peak condition for drinking – an impeccable trait for those wishing to revel in the immediate luxury while also keeping an eye on investment potential.

 

In Summary

The merits of including the 1997 Chateau Valandraud in one’s portfolio are punctuated by its elegance and maturity. This wine is at once an enjoyment for the senses and a prescient nod to heritage-rich investment. One sips not merely wine, but history - matured under the watchful care of Bordeaux’s celebrated appellation, Saint-Émilion. Let this serve as an inflection point for collectors who wish to walk the line between pleasure and acuity.

Current market price

£2,320.00

12x75cl

Highest score

88

POP score

290

Scores and tasting notes

88

Tasted blind at the Valandraud vertical at the property, the 1997 Valandraud has a well-defined bouquet with earthy red berry fruit, iron filing, orange rind and touches of menthol developing with time. The palate is medium-bodied with rather scrawny tannin, fully mature herbaceous fruit with a leafy, rather autumnal finish that does not have immense depth, but at least has sufficient freshness. It actually improved in the glass and yet it never quite delivered that penetration or depth of fruit on the finish. To call it "Valandraud-lite" would be too disparaging, but that is how it comes across after twenty years. Tasted December 2016.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 February 2017

Vintage performance