(Jan. 14, 2015) — 1995 in Bordeaux was hailed as great vintage following a run of 4 “challenging” vintages, as the Bordelais like to put it; and it marked the first step in the upward march in prices.

Winetasters currently rates it 8/10. A dry summer led to a lack of phenolic ripeness and to very firm tannic wines in many cases, with tricky weather (aka rain) in September leading to interesting decisions on when to pick. Most wines, however, turned out very well with the top growth wines evolving well and in many cases not yet fully mature. While we wait for those (yes there’s a tasting in the cellar for a future event, this is Winetasters!), we have the opportunity now to assess the longevity of affordable (but well-chosen) Bordeaux with a tasting of mid-level and petits crus which are fully mature.

Our tasting takes a tour through five communes (St Julien, St Estephe, Moulis, Pessac-Leognan and St Emilion as well as the broader Haut-Medoc, Medoc and Graves regions). The line-up includes Chateaux Lalande-Borie (St Julien), Beau-Site (St Estephe), Chasse-Spleen (Moulis), La Lagune (Haut Medoc), Cardonne (Medoc), Rahoul (Graves), and Le Bahans de Chateau Haut-Brion (Pessac- Leognan), along with one “right bank” wine, L’Arrosée (St Emilion) – plus our usual mystery wine.

A benefit of this tasting for members should be to learn about the aging profile of mid-level Bordeaux and gain some guidance as a result for today’s buying decisions. Given the current high prices for the top growths, the lower price chateaux can offer relatively good value and usually evolve more quickly. Come on out and experience how mid-level Bordeaux can evolve and decide for yourself how similar wines can provide the affordable Bordeaux experience, both now and going forward.

As always with our tastings, this event will be strictly non-smoking, and we request your cooperation in not wearing any scented after-shave or perfume. Using public transit is strongly encouraged.

Cancellations accepted up to January 9, 2015. See the event form for cancellation contact details. No reservations by phone, please. No confirmations will be issued — you will be contacted only if we are sold out. First come basis. Non-members may attend at guest rates, but preference will be given to members.

Download the event form if you wish to mail in your reservation cheque. Please note that as per the downloaded event form cheques for this event are to be mailed to a different address.