In Bond Fine Wine. 2006 Château Beychevelle, Saint-Julien, Bordeaux, France. Fourth Growth • Red Bordeaux in 12x75cl. Top critic score: 90–92/100 (RP). Drinking window: 2022–2038. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
This beautiful St Julien Fourth Growth is one of the traditional names of the Medoc, undergoing a renaissance over the past decade. Now firmly re-established as one of the Left Bank's most admired and recognisable names. With a history stretching back to the 17th century and an iconic label featuring a dragon boat, Beychevelle has become hugely popular in Asia. A renovation of the winery was completed in 2016, and today Beychevelle produces wines of greater purity, depth and concentration than ever before, with classic Left Bank character. With its combination of pedigree, consistent quality, and international appeal, Beychevelle continues to offer good value within the top wines of the Medoc.
Neal Martin (NM) — 88–90/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 24/04/2007
Tasted at the UGC. A deep garnet hue. The nose is tight at first, eventually revealing notes of blackberry, cut grass and a touch of plum. The palate is full-bodied with a soft entry, leading to a ripe, rounded mid-palate with notes of blackberry, dates and a touch of raisin. It seems to lack a bit of backbone at this stage, but it may put on weight in barrel. Could do with a little more poise an…
Jane Anson (JA) — 91/100 · Inside Bordeaux, 2024-06-03 · Drink 2024-2038
Firm ruby red in colour, tannins that are softening up but remain a little foursquare, a serious Beychevelle with layers of cassis and blackberry fruit, along with smoked earth, soy and tobacco. Getting ready to drink, the structure should elongate further over the next decade. Harvest September 20 to October 5, 60% new oak.
Neal Martin (NM) — 89/100 · Vinous, 2023-03-01 · Drink 2022-2035
The 2006 Beychevelle is a solid effort in a difficult vintage, and perhaps this bottle has the edge on the one poured blind six months earlier. There are blackberry, briar and loam traces on the nose, with light cassis notes, again lending it a Margaux-like florality. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy red berry fruit, rounded in texture with that touch of truffle, though it just feels a bit…