Category: | Red Wines |
Sub-Category: | Red Wines |
Producer: | Valandraud |
Label Name: | St Emilion Gcc |
Vintage: | 1996 |
Country: | France |
Region: | Saint-Émilion (Bordeaux, Right Bank) |
Volume: | 1500ml |
ABV: | 12.5% |
Grape(s): | Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec. |
Acidity: | 3 |
Tannins: | 3 |
Sweetness: | 1 |
Body: | 5 |
Length: | 4 |
Aroma Intensity: | 4 |
Best Temperature: | 16-18°C |
Awards/Ratings
James Suckling 90; Robert Parker/Wine Advocate reported ratings in the high‑80s to low‑90s for the 1996 vintage (e. g. WA cited at 91 by some sources); Valandraud promoted to Premier Grand Cru Classé B in 2012
Tasting Note
Ripe black cherry and cassis with leather, coffee and truffle notes; tertiary earthiness and mocha emerge. Full-bodied, round fruit with spice and gently resolved volatile lift, long, savory finish.
Food Pairing
Roast lamb, ribeye or mushroom risotto (Western); Peking duck, Korean BBQ (bulgogi), char siu or braised beef hot pot (Asian).
Production Method
Merlot-led Bordeaux blend fermented in vats, aged ~18–20 months in new oak; traditionally bottled unfined and unfiltered for concentration and texture.
Vineyard Info
Founded by Jean‑Luc Thunevin and Murielle Andraud in 1989 as a 'garagiste' micro‑château; later expanded and promoted to Saint‑Émilion Premier Grand Cru Classé B (2012). Estate emphasizes low yields and concentrated, oak‑aged wines.