Reds
Instant pleasure seems to be the emerging concensus of the Bordeaux 07s. There is an appealing characteristic of charming fruit to many of the wines. That's not to say that none of the wines have structure and density to work with the fruit. Some of the wines do. The key seems to be, as is often the case, careful selection of the right wine from the right Chateaux. The wines are very heterogenous. Some of the top Estates, such as Margaux and Cheval Blanc, have selected less than a third of their crop for their Grand Vin to ensure their strict standards are adhered to. One interesting characteristic given global trends over the last few years is the lower alcohol levels for the 07s. Many properties are presenting wines at below 13%! It has been some years since this happened. On the whole in terms of the grape varieties it seems to be a Cabernet vintage - both Sauvignon and Franc (although there have been some real successes with Merlot in Pomerol especially). Compared to 2006 these wines have a different DNA. Smooth and silky and more approachable, with a few wines delivering both this charm and some structure. Choose carefully and these wines could be enjoyed whilst waiting for any top 2000s, 2003s and 2005s to mature?
Whites
These grapes were harvested in perfect conditions. The resulting overall style is one of purity and freshness with fine, tangy fruit, with defined acidities. There is more than some excitement among the Bordelais on the prospects for their whites.
Sweet Wines
2007 is without doubt a sweet vintage! It's too early to say how good it will become but it could possibly take on a legendary status and be the best vintage in modern times?? Even some talk of Chateau d'Yquem being the best since the legendary 1945. Their is purity, richness and style with good fresh acidity, lower alcohol and wonderfully high sweetness.
Further news will follow...... |
