Bordeaux 2015 En Primeur Releases – 13th May

Jean-Luc Thunevin’s famous garagiste wine Valandraud is probably the most interesting purchase we have made so far. We are pleased to have picked up a ten case parcel @ £1,125.00 IB per case. This stunning wine from right bank St Emilion has tiny allocations and incredible demand given the huge scores from both Neal Martin and James Suckling…

Moreover, the ’15 is considerably cheaper than the 2005 (£2,100), 2009 (£1,700.00) and 2010 (£2,300).

95-97 Neal Martin “The 2015 Chateau Valandraud is founded upon Jean-Luc Thunevin’s ever-reliable Merlot parcels, and this year the blend is augmented with 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. It has a glorious and damn irresistible bouquet of crème de cassis, blueberry, crushed violets and a scintilla of citrus fruit, all beautifully defined and very precise. In 2015 it is determined to put a gap between itself and the Virginie de Valandraud. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, creamy in texture but not in the slightest cloying. The acidity is well judged with layers of caressing black fruit towards a finish for which I could only deploy the word – nubile. This will be a stunning Valandraud to savor over the next couple of decades, though it will be difficult to resist temptation in its youth. Drink 2022-2045”

98-99 James Suckling “A fabulous Valandraud with verve and distinction. So much bright blackberry, mineral and dark chocolate character. Full and ultra-silky textured. Powerful and balanced finish. A joy to taste. Purity. Greatest Valandraud ever. 85% merlot, 10% cabernet franc and 5% cabernet sauvignon.”