Château Bellevue Saint Emilion 2005

wa94ws91

BN#269073

Château Bellevue

The wines of Bellevue are characterised by their power, their great aromatic complexity and mineral notes. The high percentage of Merlot in the blend will be gradually diminished over the coming years through increased planting of Cabernet Franc. Through the quality of its terroir, surrounded by three premier grand cru classé Châteaux, one cannot help reflecting on the potential for greatness this property has.

Wine Advocate

Bellevue has only been making terrific wine since 2000, which probably explains why they were not upgraded to a grand cru classe in St.-Emilion’s most recent reclassification. This small (15.5 acres), south-facing hillside vineyard has such outstanding neighbors as Angelus and both Beausejours. Additionally, it boasted Nicolas Thienpont and Stephane Derenoncourt as managers, who represent uncompromising viticulture and winemaking at its best. The winemaking team is likely to change as the estate was recently sold to Angelus. The 2005, a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, is a wine for true connoisseurs. It possesses a dense purple color to the rim along with a huge perfume of camphor, charcoal, graphite, blackberries, cassis, raspberries, and a liqueur of rocks-like component. Super-concentrated with chewy richness as well as enormous tannins, it, along with Ausone and Clos de Sarpe, may be St.-Emilion’s most backward wine. More of a long distance runner, it will provide little near-term pleasure. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2040. 94+

Score: 94. —Robert Parker, April 2008.

Wine Spectator

Powerful aromas of coffee, licorice and blackberry follow through to a full body, with soft, velvety tannins, a long, flavorful finish and a mineral, chocolate and aniseed aftertaste. Has a balanced, caressing texture. Best after 2012.

Score: 91. —James Suckling, March 31, 2008.