wine bottle

2014 Chateau Cantemerle

By Chateau Cantemerle

2014 Chateau Cantemerle from Chateau Cantemerle, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux

The 2014 vintage in Bordeaux testified to the resilience and adaptability of its vignerons. Amidst a season of climatic seesaws, the harvest period granted a reprieve, with optimal conditions bringing out surprising quality, particularly in the Cabernet-dominated left bank. The 2014 Chateau Cantemerle from Chateau Cantemerle encapsulates this triumph; it is an investment-grade claret that speaks of the estate's perennial pursuit of balance and elegance.

 

Precision Amidst Uncertainty: The Hallmark of Excellence

Upon decanting, it becomes quickly apparent that the 2014 Chateau Cantemerle commands a respect atypical of a year so fraught with unpredictability. The wine, now entering a superb window of drinkability, exudes aromas of blackcurrant and subtle oak influenced by its meticulous élevage in barrels. A skilful blend predominantly of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with touches of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, the wine’s structure is ornate yet precise.

 

A Study in Terroir and Temperance

The Haut-Médoc terroir shines through the 2014 Chateau Cantemerle, its gravelly soils etching a defined minerality into the wine's profile. The palate marries dark fruit with refined tannins - a nod to the adept management of an initially troublesome growing season. Indeed, investors will note that as much as the optimal harvest conditions, it was the winemakers' fortitude that carved this challenging vintage into one deserving of both cellaring and immediate gratification.

Claret connoisseurs seeking astute investments will appreciate the balance this vintage achieves— freshness interlaced with complexity, signifying a wine sure to evolve gracefully for years to come.

 

Concluding on Subtlety and Assurance

In summation, the intricacies of the 2014 Chateau Cantemerle bespeak a dedication to craft so emblematic of Bordeaux's finest offerings. This is indeed an example where nature’s poise and winemaker’s artistry dance in delightful harmony—yielding a wine that stands not only as a testament to its year but also as a compelling opportunity for fine wine investment.

Current market price

$380.00

12x75cl

Highest score

94

POP score

16.43

Scores and tasting notes

93-94

No tasting note available.

James Suckling - Jamesuckling.com (04/2015)

90-93

No tasting note available.

Wine Spectator - The Wine Spectator

87-89

No tasting note available.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate

88

The 2014 Cantemerle has a conservative, cedar and graphite-tinged bouquet that needs to develop more fruité. It is focused but just needs more intensity. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin on the entry. Clean red berry fruit here with moderate weight, leading to a slightly chewy finish that will hopefully evolve more nuance and personality with time. To be honest, I was expecting a little more considering the vintage.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 31 March 2017

Vintage performance