Chateau Beychevelle   Beychevelle

2001 Beychevelle

By Chateau Beychevelle

2001 Beychevelle from Château Beychevelle, St-Julien, Bordeaux

The millennial vintage of 2001 was somewhat overshadowed by the exalted 2000, yet I find an unheralded virtue in the wines it proffers, particularly the 2001 Beychevelle from the commendable Château Beychevelle. This exquisite St-Julien wine is a splendid offering for fine wine investors seeking to diversify their portfolios with provenance and poise.

 

A Testament to Terroir: The Quintessence of 2001

The 2001 vintage was faced with climatic skirmishes, notably with September rains compelling agile decisiveness in the vineyard. It resulted in a year where Château Beychevelle's commitment to meticulous cultivation and timely harvesting was paramount. The resultant wine exhibits a robust structure delicately draped in finesse—a balance that conveys the tenacity of the vines and the nurturing hand of its vignerons.

 

An Olfactory Odyssey: Complex Yet Harmonious

The aromatic profile of 2001 Beychevelle is intriguingly complex; blackcurrant, cedarwood and subtle earthy notes play a symphony on the senses. With age, this ensemble has developed hints of tobacco and leather, indicative of successful cellaring and the transformative passage of time.

 

Palate Precision: Elegantly Maturing

On the palate, this wine retains a vigour that belies its years. There is a harmonious coalescence of mature tannins and preserved acidity. A medium-bodied classicism prevails, rendering it an admirable integration into any discerning investor’s collection. Flavours steeped in dark fruits are supplanted by a measured savouriness and an enduring finish.

In summation, the 2001 Beychevelle stands as a formidable edition from Château Beychevelle. Its nuance and maturity resonate with an investor's desire for depth and diversity within their portfolio. With appropriate care and patience, it promises continued evolution and pleasure for many years hence.

Current market price

$1,890.00

12x75cl

Highest score

89

POP score

125.56

Scores and tasting notes

89

Tasted at the French Embassy in London. I have upheld the view that Beychevelle was a little out of sorts around the turn of the millennium. Here. It has a well-defined, harmonious nose with blackberry, cedar, mint and a touch of black tea. The palate is medium-bodied with a soft entry, tart red cherries, wild strawberry and cedar, but it is marred by a rather bitter, severe finish that certainly lacks the precision that winemaker Philippe Blanc has engendered in more recent vintages. An obdurate but worthy/sturdy Beychevelle. Drink 2011-2024. Tasted November 2010.

Neal Martin - Wine Journal Jan 2011

88

Elegant notes of damp earth, underbrush, sweet cherries, and currants arise from the modest bouquet. While a distinctive soil character dominates the fruit, it offers good richness, medium body, and moderate tannin in an elegant, stylish format. It is good to see this well-known property produce an excellent wine. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2013.

Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 29 June 2004

Vintage performance