La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou 2017 - 75cl

Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, a St. Julien estate in Bordeaux, traces its roots to the 13th century, named for its gravelly soils ("Beaucaillou" meaning beautiful stones). Bertrand Ducru acquired it in 1795, enhancing the chateau and vineyards. Sold in 1866 to the Johnston family, who innovated mildew treatments and modernized facilities. Amid the 1929 depression, it passed to the Desbarats, then to Francis Borie in 1941. The Borie family, led by Jean-Eugène (1953), François-Xavier (1978), and Bruno (2003), eliminated TCA issues and shifted to organic farming by 2018. The 75-hectare vineyard (70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot) uses plot-specific vinification, stainless steel vats, and 75-90% new oak aging for 18-20 months, producing 9,000-11,000 cases annually.

La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou is the second wine of Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, debuted in 1995 from inland vines near Château Talbot. The 2017 vintage blends 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot at 13.68% ABV, aged in 60% new French oak, offering an approachable Saint-Julien with elegance and freshness.

Nosing: Spicy with cloves, anise, black pepper, fenugreek; fruity notes of creme de cassis, blackberries, black currants, blueberries, plums, cedar, graphite, dried herbs, underbrush, and floral hints.Palate: Medium to full-bodied, elegant with silky, grainy tannins and bright acidity; juicy black and red fruits like black-currant, cherry, cassis, loganberry, balanced structure and mid-palate depth.Finish: Long, refreshing with earthy notes, licorice, ripe red berries, and gentle freshness.