Virginie de Valandraud 2018

Type: Red Wine      Volume: 750ml

Winery: Chateau de Valandraud

Country: France     Region: Bordeaux

District: St Emilion

Grapes Varieties: 70% Merlot,30% Cabernet Franc

Classification:      Production: 4200 cases

Alcohol: 15% abv     Packing: Original Wooden Case of 12 bottles

Ratings and Tasting Notes:

AG=94 The 2018 Virginie de Valandraud is superb. Silky, pliant, and expressive, 2018 is wonderfully caressing right out of the gate. Crushed red berry fruit, mocha, spice, and new leather all meld together effortlessly. From the bottle, 2018 is more refined and delicate than it was from barrel, and every bit as compelling. The Virginie is made from a collection of unclassed parcels around Valandraud and on the plains below the core holdings.

JS=94 Aromas of dark berries, dried violets, toasted hazelnuts, dark chocolate, and coffee. It’s full-bodied with firm, powdery tannins. Muscular and intense, yet still tight. Try from 2026.

RP=93+ Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Virginie de Valandraud comes barreling out of the glass with powerful scents of stewed black plums, Black Forest cake, and blueberry preserves, plus hints of cedar chest, menthol, and hoisin. The big, rich, full-bodied palate (15% declared alcohol) is still sporting a fair bit of oak, delivering a firm, grainy texture and just enough freshness, finishing long and spicy. Give it another 3-4 years in bottle for the oak to integrate and the generous fruit to fully emerge, then drink it over the next 15+ years.

WS=90 Juicy and compact, with a core of steeped raspberry and blackberry paste flavors. Nice length here, as well as depth provided by a mix of dark earth, tobacco, and applewood on the finish. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2028. 4,200 cases made.