Chateau Canteloup 1964 Saint-Estephe

Chateau Canteloup 1964 Saint-Estèphe

Domain

Château: Château Canteloup is a property located in the Saint-Estèphe appellation, on the left bank of Bordeaux. This region is renowned for its powerful and structured red wines, capable of aging admirably. Château Canteloup, although less well known than some of its neighbors, has managed to produce wines that reflect the typical character of Saint-Estèphe, with particular attention paid to the terroir and traditional winemaking methods.

Terroir

Appellation: Saint-Estèphe is one of the most famous appellations of the Médoc, known for its robust and tannic wines, with an excellent ageing capacity. The varied soils of this region, composed mainly of gravel on a clay-limestone subsoil, contribute to the production of complex and powerful wines.

Soil: The terroir of Château Canteloup is characterized by gravelly and clayey soils, typical of Saint-Estèphe. These soils allow good drainage while retaining enough moisture for the vine, promoting a slow and regular maturation of the grapes, which is essential to produce well-structured and balanced wines.

Grape varieties

Typical blend: The 1964 vintage of Château Canteloup would be composed mainly of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with a small proportion of Cabernet Franc, the traditional grape varieties of the Médoc region.

• Cabernet Sauvignon: Provides structure, power and significant aging potential.
• Merlot: Contributes to roundness, suppleness and aromas of ripe red fruits.
• Cabernet Franc: Adds spicy notes and a certain freshness.

Tasting

Color: After several decades of aging, the color of the 1964 Château Canteloup would have taken on a deep ruby ​​hue with tiled highlights, indicating its advanced age.

Nose: The nose of this wine is complex and evolved, revealing aromas of stewed black fruits, prunes, accompanied by tertiary notes such as leather, tobacco, undergrowth, and a touch of cedar. Nuances of truffle, dark chocolate, and licorice can also emerge, reflecting the extended aging in bottle.

Palate: On the palate, the wine is very fine, with melted tannins and a silky texture. The flavors of ripe fruit, spices, and wood blend harmoniously, offering a beautiful length in the mouth. The acidity, although discreet, is still present, bringing a freshness that balances the richness of the wine. The finish is long and persistent, marked by notes of leather and cocoa.

Aging potential: Although this wine has already reached a venerable age, it can still offer a unique tasting experience. However, it is recommended to taste it soon to fully enjoy its complexity before it begins to decline.

Food and Wine Pairing

Suggested Pairings: The 1964 Château Canteloup would pair perfectly with rich, flavorful dishes such as duck confit, roast leg of lamb, or braised beef. It could also accompany mature cheeses such as Roquefort or Comté. For a refined dining experience, it could be served with dishes based on wild mushrooms or truffles.

Vintage Context

1964: The 1964 vintage is considered a classic year in Bordeaux, marked by favorable climatic conditions that allowed the grapes to ripen well. The wines of this vintage are generally well structured, with good concentration and interesting aging potential. This vintage is often appreciated for its balance and complexity.

The Château Canteloup 1964 Saint-Estèphe is therefore a wine that embodies the tradition and robust character of the Saint-Estèphe appellation. It is a rare bottle that offers a memorable tasting experience, reflecting the richness and depth of a great Bordeaux wine after several decades of maturation.