La Bernardine 1985

Wine: La Bernardine 1985

Winery: M. Chapoutier (Tain l'Hermitage)
Appellation / Region: A.O.C. Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Varietals: 100% Grenache Noir
ABV: [Not specified]
Winemaking

Aged in French oak barrels for a minimum of 12 months, with some vintages extending up to 18 months.

 

Tasting Notes
 

Appearance: Reddish-ruby with medium-high depth (capa); somewhat dark and slightly grainy with very fine sediment at the base. It shows pomegranate and orange highlights with a broad copper rim.

 

Nose: Explosive and powerful. A lavish display of red fruit preserves dominates the ensemble—black cherries and macerated plums—intertwined with a balsamic edge (nettle, peppermint) and high-quality creamy toasted nuances reminiscent of "After-Eight" mint chocolates. These melt into a background of Mediterranean scrubland: rockrose (té de roca), fenugreek, and sage. Well-integrated, successful, and incredibly pleasant, showcasing a magnificent varietal expression. It maintains its intensity while gaining spicy notes of black pepper, clove, and bay leaf, alongside nuances of seasoned wood. One would never guess this wine is nearly 30 years old; it retains a surprising degree of youth, seemingly untouched by time. Beautifully crafted.

 

Palate: A lively, fleshy, and expansive red, filled with the same red fruit and supported by a superb acidity. It still has room to refine, revealing an unexpected and significant aging potential. Savory, with nerve and good structure, it offers high-toned (acídulo) notes, bitter nuances, and a wealth of spices. A splendid wine that lingers indefinitely—exceptionally long and fresh.

 

Personal Score: 93
Tasting Group Score: 95