Château Cantemerle 2004

Tasting note: Château Cantemerle 2004 (Haut-Médoc, 5ème Cru Classé)

The 2004 Cantemerle is a classic, elegant Bordeaux from a vintage known for its freshness and balance. As a fifth cru classéfrom the Haut-Médoc, it displays typical aromas of cassis, cedar and tobacco, with a slender but finely structured tannic texture.

Sensory analysis

Colour:

• Deep ruby red with a slight garnet rim - still youthfully fresh, but first signs of maturity.

Nose:

• Fresh red and black fruit: blackcurrant (cassis), sour cherry, plum.

• Classic Bordeaux flavour: Cedar wood, pencil minerality, tobacco leaf.

• Light floral notes: violets, dried rose petals.

• Woody notes: Delicate vanilla and roasted coffee beans (subtly integrated).

Palate:

• Medium-bodied with taut acidity - the tannins are fine-grained but still noticeable.

• Elegant fruit (cassis, ripe raspberry) mingles with spicy notes (pepper, bay leaf).

• Mineral freshness (graphite, damp pebbles) gives the wine structure.

• Length: Moderately long, with a clean, slightly tart and spicy finish.

Overall impression:
A typical Cantemerle - not opulent, but charming and easy-drinking with classic Médoc character.

Rating & ageing potential

• Parker (RP): ("A harmonious, accessible Cru Classé")

• Drinking window: Now - 2030 (already ready to drink, but can still age slightly).

• Decanting: 30-45 minutes to open up the flavours.

Serving recommendation:

• Entrecôte with green pepper

• Roasted lamb chops with ratatouille

• Matured Gouda or mild blue cheese

Conclusion:

The 2004 Cantemerle is a perfect everyday Bordeauxfor lovers of classic, not over-extracted wines. It shows the typical elegance of the Château and is suitable both for immediate enjoyment and for short-term storage.