Château de Lamarque (2000)
SommeliAI Insights
A classic Haut-Médoc red with notes of ripe red currants, tobacco, and cedar.
About this wine
The 2000 Château de Lamarque from Haut-Médoc offers aromas of ripe red currants, tobacco, and cedar. On the palate, it presents a medium-bodied structure with firm tannins, accompanied by flavors of red currants, tobacco, and cedar. As the wine has aged, it has developed secondary characteristics, including earthy and peppery notes. The estate's history dates back to the 11th century, originally serving as a fortress against Viking invasions. This wine reflects the traditional winemaking practices of the region, showcasing the classic profile of a mature Bordeaux red.
About the grape
In the Haut-Médoc region of Bordeaux, the grape varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot each play distinct roles in winemaking. Cabernet Sauvignon thrives in the region's gravelly soils, contributing structure and aging potential to the wines. Merlot, flourishing in clay-rich areas, adds softness and ripe fruit flavors, balancing the tannins of Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc, an earlier ripening variety, imparts aromatic complexity and finesse. Petit Verdot, though used sparingly due to its late ripening, enhances color and adds spicy notes when it fully matures. Together, these grapes create the balanced and complex blends characteristic of Haut-Médoc wines.
Quick facts
- 🏰 Château de Lamarque's history dates back to the 11th century, originally built as a fortress to defend the Médoc region from Viking invasions.
- 👨👩👧👦 The estate has been owned by the same family since 1841, making it one of the longest, unbroken lines of ownership in the wine world.
- 🍇 The vineyard spans 35 hectares, with vines averaging 35 years of age, contributing to the wine's depth and complexity.
- 🍷 The 2000 vintage of Château de Lamarque is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, showcasing the classic Bordeaux style.
- 📉 The 2000 vintage is considered to be on the downslope, with more secondary character than fruit, though you can still find ripe red currants on the nose and medium-bodied, firm palate, along with tobacco, cedar, and peppery herbs.
Palate profile
Producer
Château de Lamarque, located in the Haut-Médoc region of Bordeaux, France, is one of the oldest castles in the Médoc, with origins dating back to the 11th century. Initially constructed to defend against Viking invasions via the Gironde Estuary, the fortress also endured assaults during the Hundred Years' War. The estate transitioned into a vineyard after the French Revolution, with vines planted as early as the 15th century. Today, it remains under the stewardship of the Gromand d’Evry family, direct descendants of the original owners, making it one of the longest, unbroken lines of ownership in the wine world.
