Château Chasse Spleen 1993

Tasting note: Château Chasse Spleen 1993

(Moulis-en-Médoc, Bordeaux, France; Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot; approx. 12.5-13% alcohol)

General:
Château Chasse Spleen 1993 comes from the renowned Moulis-en-Médoc, an appellation known for structured, long-lived wines. 1993 was a challenging vintage in Bordeaux with cool, rainy conditions during the ripening and harvest period. Despite this, the Château - one of the best Crus Bourgeois, which often holds its own with Crus Classés - managed to produce a surprisingly balanced wine with a classic character.

Appearance:
Medium garnet red colour with distinct brick and orange tones on the rim, typical of mature Bordeaux. The colour appears slightly faded, but still shows clear transparency. Slight sediment formation in the glass.

Nose:
Tertiary aromas dominate: Leather, tobacco leaf, cedar wood and damp forest floor notes. This is underpinned by restrained fruit nuances of dried plums, prunes and preserved blackberries. Slight hints of old library books, smoke and a subtle sweetish spiciness (vanilla pod, clove) - presumably from ageing in older oak barrels.

Palate:
Medium-bodied with a lean texture and already fully integrated, soft tannins. The acidity is moderate, but carries the ripe aromas of autumn leaves, dried cherries and black tea. Slight bitterness (walnut shell, dark chocolate) and a mineral salt note (graphite) emphasise the classic Bordeaux style. The fruit is restrained, almost faded.

Finish:
Medium-long to short, with a hint of tobacco, leather and an earthy spiciness. The finish is more sober than opulent, but remains pleasantly harmonious.

Maturation potential & drinking recommendation:
The wine is clearly at the peak of its maturity and should be enjoyed within the next 1-2 years. If stored improperly, the acidity and structure may already be diminishing. Decant for 30-45 minutes before serving to separate sediment and activate the last flavours.

Suitable dishes:
Classics such as lamb ragout, duck confit or mushroom risotto. Also harmonious with mature Comté or blue cheese. More suitable as a soloist for purist connoisseurs.

Rating:
An honourable representative of a difficult vintage that impresses with its elegance and down-to-earth character. Whilst it does not possess the power or depth of great Bordeaux vintages, it shows the signature of a terroir-conscious winery. ★★★☆☆ (88/100).