Produced in France within the Saint Julien appellation of the Médoc, Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou is a prestigious 2nd Grand Cru Classé estate. The 2004 vintage represents the second year under the management of Bruno Borie, who has been credited with significantly upgrading the quality and precision of the estate's offerings. The winery's philosophy is deeply tied to its unique terroir, named after the 'beautiful stones' or deep gravel layers that provide natural drainage and essential heat regulation for the vines.

Wine Description

The 2004 vintage exhibits a deep ruby to garnet colour, often showing a hint of brick at the rim as it matures. The bouquet is expressive and evolved, featuring scents of creme de cassis, raspberries, and black cherries intertwined with secondary notes of tobacco leaf, cedar, lead pencil, and earthy truffle. On the palate, this medium to full-bodied red is harmonious and refined, offering a balance of vibrant acidity and firm, chewy tannins. The blend consists primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon (approximately 77%) and Merlot (23%), with some reports also noting small portions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot in the vineyard. This wine is currently in its prime drinking window, which is expected to remain open through 2035 to 2040.

Accolades

• Wine Enthusiast - 94 points

• Robert Parker - 93 points

• Decanter - 93 points

• James Suckling - 92 points

• Wine Spectator - 92 points

• Vinous (Neal Martin) - 92 points