Chateau D’aiguilhe – Côtes de Castillon
The History
Arguably the most renowned wines on earth, the classed growths of Bordeaux
continue to epitomize the power and complexity Bordeaux blends are capable of.
While most wines here are based on Cabernet Sauvignon, both Merlot and Cabernet Franc play important roles in adding layered complexity to the finished wines, and allow winemakers in each commune within the region to use the blend that is best suited to their unique combination of soil and meso-climate. The most famous communes each have their own classic traits with St. Estephe giving full, if rustic wines, from the heavy clay soils, to Paulliac’s elegant balance of ripe fruits, minerality and structure to St. Julien’s rich blackberry core and supple feel. Moving to the South of the region brings one to Margaux, with its notes of flowers and berries
The Vineyard
This large (120+ acres) vineyard planted on limestone and clay soils is composed
of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, the 2003
was produced from yields of 28 hectoliters per hectare. It exhibits a dense purple
color as well as a big, sweet nose of scorched earth, blackberries, underbrush,
cherries, and smoke. Layered, opulent, powerful, and rich, with its tannin character
well-hidden by abundant fruit, it should drink well for 10-12 years. It is another example
of this backwater appellation producing a wine that transcends its pedigree.
Tasting Notes
A merlot dominant wine. This is ultra dark, with coffee new oak. Modern, somewhat
extracted, fruit, balance, other berries, red fruit, black cherry, ruby, astringent,
stone fruits, currant, berry, black currant, mediterranean fruits, color descriptors,
decant, forward, earthy, purple, freshness.