2018 Chateau d'issan (Chateau d'Issan)

Drink it now or cellar for up to 25 years. It is recommended to decant it for an hour. Named Third Grand Cru Classé in the famous Médoc wine classification of 1855, Château d'Issan is a splendid estate located in the heart of the Margaux vineyard. The wine has an incredible reputation and has been in the major European courts for centuries: as early as 1152 it was served at the wedding of Eleanor of Aquitaine to Henry Plantagenet of England. For this reason, the label bears the Latin motto Regum Mensis Aris que Deorum which means "For the table of kings and the altar of the gods". In the vineyards of the estate, planted on an exceptional terroir of deep gravel, mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes are grown, and small quantities of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. The vinification takes place with great care for the health of the grapes, exercising a very delicate pumping over, and the finished wine is aged for about 18 months in 50% new and 50% second passage barrels. The Château d'Issan reveals an intense red color with ruby nuances. Its aromatic profile is intense and concentrated with notes of black cherries and ripe berries, cassis, and raspberries, followed aby hints of spices and tea leaves. On the palate, it is delightfully fruity with a medium to full body and a backbone of well-integrated, velvety tannins. The finish is fresh and persistent and recalls light mineral notes. It goes splendidly with veal served with truffles or duck breast.