Château Simard

Bordeaux, France

Saint-Émilion – 2005

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  • Vineyard Profile

    • Appellation: Saint-Émilion
    • Cultivation: Lutte raisonnée
    • Size: 40 hectares (98.84 acres)
    • Vine Age: Average of 35 years
    • Soil: Clay with sand and gravel
    • Density: 5,500-6,600 vines/hectare
    • Training: Cordon de Royat
  • Vintage Report

    • 2005 Bordeaux wine is the product of a hot, dry growing season. From start to finish, the conditions were perfect! While dry, there was just enough moisture at the right times to nourish the vines. The flowering took place at the beginning of June. During the late summer months, some vines had become stressed from the drought, but the rains which fell August 17 on the Right Bank and August 25 in the Medoc were just what the doctor ordered! This was followed by another dose of rain at the perfect moment, which gave more nourishment to the dry Bordeaux vineyards on September 8 and again on September 25. What had at one point been considered potential drought issues were completely eradicated by this point in time. Starting in late September and continuing into October, the days were sunny and warm, with chilly night temperatures. This allowed the grapes to be harvested under picture-perfect conditions, and gave the growers the opportunity to wait until the fruit achieved phenolic ripeness. The combination of warm days, cold nights and just enough rain at the right moments produced extraordinary 2005 Bordeaux wine!

    • Harvest Date(s): September 21 - October 6
    • Yields: 35 hectoliters/hectare
  • Vinification

    • Fermentation: In concrete vats
      Maceration:
      3 weeks
      Malolactic:
      100%
      Aging: Bottle-aged 7 years in the cellars
      Cellar Master: Thierry Lezin

  • Technical Information

    • Varietal Composition: 70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc
    • Cases Imported: 1,000 cases (12/750ml)
    • Alcohol: 13%
  • Tasting Notes

    • The 2005 is absolutely one of the reference points for Bordeaux. From the stand point of concentration, alcohol, tannins and acidity, all are harmoniously balanced. These wines can be enjoyed now and over the next 10 years.

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Reviews

  • Saint-Émilion – 2005 – 92 points – Wine & Spirits

    “… matured to silken elegance, still holding some fresh floral notes while the spicy, gamey flavors last, integrated and lovely …”

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