Chateau La Vieille Cure 2004

La Vieille Cure Chateau and Vineyards

With its 20 hectares (50 acres) in one single plot, Château La Vieille Cure appears on a famous map of the Guyenne region, known as the Belleyme map, dated 1780. Parish records show grapes were grown there in the 17th Century. The vines occupy a privileged location on plateaus and slopes that are oriented to the southeast. The estate runs along the River Isle at an elevation of 65 meters, where it soaks up the sun, while enjoying perfect drainage. This situation favors the growth of grapes that ripen generously and under ideal physical conditions. The property has been greatly renovated since 1986 when it was bought by American friends: Bordeaux lovers who recognized the exceptional potential of the estate. Parts of the vineyard were extended and replanted, without of course touching the very old vines, some of which go back over 75 years. A new winery was built, housing the latest equipment, and aging in oak casks was begun. The overall objective of these investments was to make high quality wines worthy of worldwide distribution. "Château La Vieille Cure may well be the reference point for Fronsac given its performance over the last decade. Consistently one of the top two or three wines of the appellation." Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate - April, 2012

Chateau La Vieille Cure 2004    Appellation: FronsacOrigin: France Land: A plateau of limestone; bordering slopes with chalk and clay soils. Grape Varietals: Merlot 74%; Cabernet Franc 22%; Cabernet Sauvignon 4% As was the 2003, this is another big time sleeper of the vintage. The dense ruby/purple-tinged 2004 offers a sweet perfume of framboise, black cherry liqueur, cedar, and spice. Supple-textured, medium to full-bodied, expansive, and savory with superb purity and texture, it can be drunk now and over the next 10-12 years. This property has been on a qualitative roll and still remains one of Bordeaux's finest values. eRobertParker.com #171 Rating: 90 Drink: 2007 - 2019