Les Allees de Cantemerle 2010

Winery Background and History

Château Cantemerle, located in the Haut-Médoc appellation of Bordeaux, France, is a historic estate with origins dating back to the 12th century. Recognized as a Fifth Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, the château is renowned for producing elegant and well-balanced wines. Les Allées de Cantemerle is the second wine of Château Cantemerle, crafted primarily from the estate’s younger vines. This cuvée mirrors the character of the grand vin but is designed for earlier consumption, offering a more approachable profile in its youth.

Grape Varietals

The 2010 Les Allées de Cantemerle is composed of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The winemaking process for Les Allées de Cantemerle involves traditional methods similar to those employed for the grand vin. After fermentation, the wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, allowing it to develop complexity and integrate its flavors harmoniously.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The 2010 Les Allées de Cantemerle has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 13%.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep ruby red with violet reflections.

• Nose: Expressive aromas of black fruits, notably blackberry and blackcurrant, complemented by subtle notes of oak, tobacco, and vanilla.

• Palate: The wine is immediately accessible, notable for its charm and floral character. It shows a mouth-filling richness which combines charm and tannic depth, with typical Cantemerle flavors of spice, tobacco, and black currant. A generous wine, full of zest, whose silky structure makes it very inviting.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs well with creamed mushrooms in puff pastry as a starter or with fresh goat’s cheese.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the 2010 Les Allées de Cantemerle, it is recommended to serve the wine at a temperature between 16°C and 18°C (61°F to 64°F). Decanting is recommended for immediate drinking pleasure, as it allows the wine to express its aromatic complexity and soften the tannins, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

Storage and Aging Potential

Les Allées de Cantemerle has the same personality as the grand vin but a shorter ageing potential. As it ages more quickly, Les Allées de Cantemerle is generally ready to be consumed within several years of the vintage. The 2010 vintage, in particular, is considered one of the finest of the new century in Bordeaux, with silky tannins of great maturity, showing great finesse and elegance. This wine is still young, a bit reserved, with a noble structure which leaves a pure impression on the finish. It can continue to age but is already marvelous with a blanquette or pot au feu.