It is rare indeed to find a red Bordeaux that is not released until nearly ten years after the vintage. That has always been the case with Château Simard. The vinification process is very unusual because the wine is not aged in oak. It is fermented in concrete tanks and spends most of its time aging in bottle before release. The result is a plush and smooth Bordeaux that shows the velvety aura of maturity but still has a vibrant fruit core. The wine shows the opulence of the 2009 harvest, with ripe blackcurrant, plum and black cherry fruits interwoven with hints of violets, tobacco, earth and tea. The blend is Merlot (70%) and Cabernet Franc (30%). Layered and soft on the palate, it will provide great drinking for another decade.
Château Simard, St. Emilion (Bordeaux, France) 2009
By Wayne Belding