Trotte Vieille 2021 (750ML)

94 DE / 92-94 JD / 88-90 WI

A bright pink rim to the wine with beautiful florality as well as sweet red and black cherry notes on the nose - so expressive. Succulent and sharp, this is piercing at first, gorgeous crystalline cherry flavours that then settle quite a lot to reveal the chalky, crushed stone minerality that coats the tongue and cheeks with the spice from the Cabernet Franc coming through - clove, cedar, tobacco, dark chocolate - a bitterness to counter the sharp fruit. I like the mouthfeel, the tannins are softly plush and so integrated giving excellent structure and support. The darker more savoury elements take over towards the finish but this has good typicity and freshness. A serious take on the vintage with impressive detail, broad shoulders, well-wrapped tannins, a deft touch of oak and a core of juicy fruit. Sure to have a long life ahead. - Georgina Hindle, Decanter

I was more than impressed by the 2021 Château Trotte Vieille, a beautiful Cabernet Franc-dominated Saint-Emilion from the upper plateau. Giving up tons of blue fruits as well as exotic flower and tobacco notes, it hits the palate with medium-bodied richness, a balanced, seamless mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and integrated acidity. It has good density and lots of potential. The blend is 54% Cabernet Franc, 45% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon. This cuvée had some rusticity in the past, but recent vintages are pure class. - Jeb Dunnuck

A blend of 54% Cabernet Franc, 45% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2021 Trotte Vieille is medium to deep garnet-purple colored. It sings of spiced black plums, blackberry compote, and kirsch with suggestions of cinnamon toast, licorice, and potpourri. Light to medium-bodied, the palate delivers crunchy black fruits with ripe, rounded tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing with lovely energy. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Independent