Château Sociando-Mallet 1993

Tasting note: Château Sociando-Mallet 1993 (Haut-Médoc, Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel)

The 1993 Sociando-Mallet comes from a difficult Bordeaux vintage, characterised by cool, damp weather and less ripeness than the surrounding vintages (1990, 1995). Nevertheless, this independent top wine estate(often regarded as an "insider tip") has also produced respectable wines in weaker years. This wine shows typical rustic Médoc characteristics with earthy spice - a true terroir wine for lovers of traditional Bordeaux.

Sensory analysis

Colour:

• Medium brick red with amber reflections - advanced maturity.

Nose:

• Tertiary dominance: damp forest earth, leather, tobacco, dried mushrooms.

• Residual fruit: Dried plum, blackcurrant (cassis).

• Woody notes: Old wood chest, smoke, a hint of vanilla.

• Minerality: Graphite, iron - typical of the gravelly soils of the Haut-Médoc.

Palate:

• Medium-bodied with prominent acidity - the tannins are soft but slightly tart.

• Flavour profiles: Stewed wild berries, black tea, pepper, bitter chocolate.

• Distinct mineral character (wet gravel, rust) - a sign of the terroir.

• Finish: Moderately long, with a dry, spicy finish (laurel, iron).

Overall impression:
A rustic, honest Haut-Médoc - not an opulent wine, but with authentic character.

Rating & ageing potential

• Parker (RP): ("Solid performance for the vintage")

• Drinking window: Now - 2026 (fully mature, no longer for cellaring).

• Decant: 30 minutes (carefully to remove sediment).

Serving recommendation:

• Wild boar goulash with bread dumplings

• Beef cheeks in red wine sauce

• Matured mountain cheese (Beaufort or Comté)

Conclusion:

The 1993 Sociando-Mallet is a wine for purists- those looking for modern fruit bombs will be disappointed. However, as a contemporary document of a difficult vintage, it offers interesting insights into traditional Bordeaux production.