CHATEAU DU BASQUE ST EMILION

Château du Basque Saint-Émilion is a traditional Bordeaux red wine from the Right Bank of Bordeaux, France, within the renowned Saint-Émilion appellation, known for Merlot-driven blends that emphasize plush fruit, elegance, and earthy complexity.

Saint-Émilion wines are typically built on Merlot, supported by Cabernet Franc and sometimes a small portion of Cabernet Sauvignon, giving a balance of softness, structure, and aromatic depth.

Appearance

1. Deep ruby to garnet red
2. Youthful wines show purple reflections
3. Medium to high color concentration

Aroma

Classic Right Bank Bordeaux profile:

1. Ripe plum and black cherry
2. Blackberry and blackcurrant
3. Violet and dried rose petals
4. Cedar and pencil shavings
5. Earthy truffle and forest floor notes
6. Tobacco leaf
7. Subtle vanilla and baking spice (from oak aging)

Palate

Smooth, rounded, and fruit-forward with elegant structure:

1. Juicy plum and black cherry
2. Blackberry and cassis
3. Soft licorice and spice notes
4. Cocoa and light mocha (oak influence)
5. Earthy undertones (mushroom, damp soil)
6. Silky, approachable tannins
7. Balanced acidity for freshness

The finish is medium to long, with lingering dark fruit, gentle spice, and earthy complexity.

Body & Style

1. Body: Medium to full-bodied
2. Sweetness: Dry
3. Tannins: Soft to medium, smooth and integrated
4. Acidity: Medium
5. Alcohol: Typically ~13–14% ABV
6. Oak Influence: Moderate, often French oak with subtle vanilla and toast

Food Pairing

A very food-friendly Bordeaux style, ideal with:

1. Roast lamb with herbs
2. Duck breast or confit
3. Beef stew or braised short ribs
4. Mushroom risotto or truffle dishes
5. Roast chicken with garlic and thyme
6. Aged cheeses (Comté, Gruyère, mild blue cheese)
7. Charcuterie boards

Serving Temperature

1. Serve at 16–18°C (60–65°F)
2. Decant 30 minutes for younger bottles to soften tannins and open aromatics

Overall Character

Château du Basque Saint-Émilion is a classic Right Bank Bordeaux expression: Merlot-led richness balanced by Cabernet structure, delivering ripe dark fruit, soft tannins, and earthy, aged complexity. It is approachable in youth but gains additional nuance with bottle age, showing the signature elegance of the Saint-Émilion style.