Chateau Beaumont 2013

Winery Background & History

Château Beaumont, a distinguished estate in the Haut-Médoc appellation of Bordeaux, has been producing high-quality wines since 1824. The estate reflects the rich winemaking heritage of the region, with a reputation built on consistency and elegance. Its château, constructed in the 1850s in the Renaissance Mansard style, stands as a testament to its legacy. The estate’s philosophy revolves around sustainability, with certifications for its environmentally conscious practices, including the Terra Vitis and High Environmental Value (HVE) labels.

Producer & Winemaker

Château Beaumont is part of Grands Millésimes de France, a collaboration between Castel Frères and Suntory. The estate’s wines benefit from the expertise of Eric Boissenot, one of Bordeaux’s most respected oenologists, known for his work with many of the region’s top estates. His guidance ensures that Château Beaumont produces wines with harmony, finesse, and structure.

Vineyard

Spanning 113 hectares, Château Beaumont’s vineyards are situated on fine gravelly hilltops, a characteristic terroir of Haut-Médoc. The well-draining gravel promotes optimal ripening of the grapes, especially Cabernet Sauvignon. The vines average 20 years of age and are meticulously maintained to preserve quality and health. Sustainable farming practices and careful vineyard management are central to its operations.

The Wine

The 2013 Château Beaumont is a red Bordeaux blend that highlights the approachable and balanced style of the estate. It represents the quintessential Haut-Médoc character, combining elegance with a fruit-forward profile. While it is crafted for earlier enjoyment, it remains true to its Bordeaux roots.

Vintage

2013 was a challenging vintage in Bordeaux due to unpredictable weather, including a cool and wet spring, which delayed flowering. Summer warmth helped improve ripeness, but rain during harvest required rigorous selection. The resulting wines are lighter in body, emphasizing freshness, finesse, and approachability.

ABV%

The 2013 vintage has an alcohol content of approximately 13%, reflecting the moderate ripeness of the year.

Vinification and Aging Method

The grapes underwent traditional vinification in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, ensuring precision and consistency. Following fermentation, the wine was aged for 12–14 months in French oak barrels, with one-third new oak used to enhance complexity and integrate subtle oak flavors. This careful aging process contributes to the wine’s balanced structure and smooth tannins.

Grape Varietals

The blend for the 2013 Château Beaumont consists of approximately 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 47% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot. This combination reflects the estate’s commitment to producing a classic Bordeaux blend with elegance and depth.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep ruby red with garnet reflections.

• Nose: Aromas of fresh red currants, black cherries, and plums, complemented by hints of cedar, tobacco, and a touch of spice from oak aging.

• Palate: Medium-bodied with vibrant acidity. Notes of ripe blackberries and raspberries are balanced by subtle earthy undertones and fine-grained tannins. The finish is smooth, with lingering hints of spice and minerality.

Food and Wine Pairing

The 2013 Château Beaumont pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled lamb chops seasoned with rosemary

• Roast duck or chicken with herbs

• Beef stews, such as daube or bourguignon

• Hard cheeses like aged Comté or Gruyère

Service Methods

• Temperature: Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) for optimal expression.

• Decanting: Decant for 30 minutes to allow the wine to open up and soften its tannins. Use a medium-wide decanter to enhance aeration.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2013 vintage is ideal for consumption within 5–7 years of its release due to its lighter profile. If cellaring, ensure conditions are cool (12–15°C), dark, and humid to maintain the wine’s integrity. While the wine is approachable now, it will continue to offer enjoyment for another year or two.

Scores

• Decanter: 85 points – Reflecting a solid performance for a challenging vintage.

• Wine Enthusiast: 86 points – Highlighting its balance and freshness.

• James Suckling: 85 points – Praising its drinkability and smooth texture.