La Croix Beaucourt Bordeaux 2020

 

Winery Background & History:

La Croix Beaucourt is a classic example of an approachable Bordeaux wine from a region steeped in history. Bordeaux, known for producing some of the world’s finest wines, offers a wide range of styles, and La Croix Beaucourt represents an affordable, well-crafted expression from this iconic French region. The winery focuses on delivering wines that reflect the traditional Bordeaux style, blending different grape varieties to create balance and complexity while maintaining accessibility.

Producer & Wine Maker:

The winemaking team at La Croix Beaucourt is dedicated to producing high-quality wines that reflect the terroir and traditional Bordeaux winemaking methods. By combining both modern and classic techniques, the winery ensures that the wine is well-structured yet easy to drink, appealing to both casual wine drinkers and enthusiasts.

Vineyard:

The vineyards for La Croix Beaucourt are located in Bordeaux’s right bank region, which is known for producing Merlot-dominant blends. The soils are a combination of gravel, clay, and limestone, which provide ideal growing conditions for Bordeaux’s classic varietals. The climate is temperate with maritime influences, allowing for slow, even ripening of the grapes.

The Wine:

La Croix Beaucourt Bordeaux 2020 is a classic Bordeaux blend. The wine is typically dominated by Merlot, which provides softness and fruitiness, balanced by Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc for structure and complexity.

Vintage:

2020 was an excellent vintage for Bordeaux, particularly due to favorable weather conditions. The growing season saw plenty of sun, which led to excellent ripeness in the grapes. The cooler nights helped preserve acidity, resulting in wines with both concentration and balance.

ABV %:

The alcohol content for La Croix Beaucourt Bordeaux 2020 is typically around 13.5%.

Vinification and Aging Method:

The wine underwent fermentation in stainless steel tanks, which helps retain the fruit’s freshness. After fermentation, the wine was aged for several months in a combination of stainless steel and neutral oak barrels. This aging process allows the wine to develop complexity while maintaining the fresh, fruit-forward character typical of Bordeaux wines in this category.

Grapes Varietals:

• Merlot

• Cabernet Sauvignon

• Cabernet Franc

Tasting Notes:

On the nose, La Croix Beaucourt Bordeaux 2020 opens with aromas of blackberries, plum, and red currants, complemented by hints of cedar, earth, and a touch of spice. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with flavors of ripe dark fruits, such as black cherries and blackberries, followed by subtle notes of vanilla and tobacco from oak aging. The tannins are smooth and well-integrated, leading to a balanced, satisfying finish with lingering fruit and a hint of spice.

Food and Wine Pairing:

This wine pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted lamb, and beef stews. It also complements hard cheeses such as Comté or Gruyère, and can be enjoyed with rich pasta dishes like mushroom risotto or bolognese.

Service Methods:

Serve at around 16-18°C. Decanting the wine for about 30 minutes will help it open up and reveal its full range of aromas and flavors.

Storage and Ageing Potential:

La Croix Beaucourt Bordeaux 2020 can be enjoyed upon release but also has the potential to improve with short-term aging. It can be cellared for 3-5 years, during which it will develop more complexity and soften its tannins. Store in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature around 12-14°C.

Scores:

• Wine Enthusiast: 88 points

• James Suckling: 87 points

Summary:

La Croix Beaucourt Bordeaux 2020 is a well-balanced, approachable wine from the Bordeaux region, showcasing ripe fruit flavors with subtle complexity and smooth tannins. It’s an excellent choice for pairing with a variety of dishes or enjoying on its own. With its solid structure and pleasing finish, this Bordeaux represents excellent value for both casual drinkers and those looking to explore classic Bordeaux styles at an affordable price point.