2024-12-09 | By Tom A.
Region: Bordeaux | Varietal: Merlot | ABV: 14.5% | Price: $60
### Appearance In the glass, the **Château Rochebelle 2018** presents a deep garnet hue, showcasing its maturity with a luminous core that gently fades to a ruby rim, hinting at its complexity. This is a merlot dominated blend with 85% merlot and 15% cabernet franc. This wine is a spectacular rendition of Bordeaux from Saint-Émilion.
### Nose The bouquet unfolds like a treasured memory, pulsating with aromas of ripe blackberries and tender plums, interwoven with delicate notes of violets and a slight earthiness, reminiscent of a stroll through a blooming artisan garden after a rain.
### Palate An enthralling journey ensues upon tasting, where **sweetness dances with balanced acidity**, embracing medium yet velvety tannins that cradle the fruit beautifully. The wine's body strikes an elegant harmony; it is neither too heavy nor too light, with a finish that lingers—a whisper of spices and a refined oak presence that beckons sip after sip.
### Notes Nestled on the remarkable asteriated limestone plateau of **Saint Émilion**, at an altitude of 90 meters, this blend of **85% Merlot** and **15% Cabernet Franc** elegantly reflects its terroir. The wine exudes a sophistication that transports the taster directly to the heart of Bordeaux, where each sip is an expression of its earth and sky.
### Pairing Suggestions - **Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops**: The rich flavors of lamb complement the wine's tannin structure, while the herbs enhance its aromatic profile. - **Wild Mushroom Risotto**: An earthy dish that mirrors the wine's complexity and brings out the subtleties of the Cabernet Franc. - **Baked Camembert with Honey and Walnuts**: A sweet and savory combination that echoes the wine's luscious fruit notes and round texture. - **Dark Chocolate Tart**: A decadent dessert that pairs beautifully with the wine's lingering finish, accentuating its richness.
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The Chateau Rochebelle 2018 is an elegant Bordeaux with rich flavors of dark cherry, plum, and notes of licorice and spice. Its velvety tannins and medium to full body make it a perfect match for equally rich and flavorful dishes. The wine's smooth texture complements the umami and fatty characteristics of the dish, while its acidity balances the richness of the flavors.
The substantial tannins in Chateau Rochebelle 2018 soften when paired with protein-rich dishes, enhancing the flavors of the wine's dark fruit and spicy notes. The acidity in the wine provides a refreshing contrast to richer, fattier elements, ensuring that the palate remains lively and engaged. Spices and herbs in the dish will resonate with the wine's inherent spice notes, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
"Located in southwestern France, Bordeaux is one of the world's most famous wine regions, known for its red blends dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. The region benefits from a maritime climate, ideal for growing grapes. Bordeaux also produces high-quality white wines and dessert wines."
Viticulture Area: Bordeaux
Famous for: Prestigious red blends from the Left and Right Banks, including wines from regions like Médoc, Saint-Émilion, and Pomerol.
Varietals: No varietals available
Total Vineyards: 6000
Preferred Terroir: Cooler climates with clay-rich soils are preferred, though Merlot can also thrive in warmer areas.
Major Regions: Bordeaux (France), California (USA), Chile, Italy, Australia
Red fruit: Cherry (Medium), Raspberry (Medium)
Black fruit: Plum (High)
Herbal: Mint (Medium-low)
Oak: Vanilla (Medium-low)
Earth: Mocha (Medium)
