1970 Chateau L'Arrosee, Saint Emillion Grand Cru

[TheEngineer]

Whatever wine was served after the 1961 Margaux was going to have a tough job. So I picked this one because I knew that it would surprise a few folks. I've had this wine several times before and wanted to note that my bottles were recorked by the Chateau in 1996. This is noted on the cork which is dated 1970 on the side and 1996 on the top of the cork.

This is an outstanding bottle. The nose is much more vibrant than the Margaux, the density and complexit of this bottle from a producer that many would not recognize, results in the surprise. Even L'Arrosee fans would be surprised by this wine as it is not what the Chateau's style normally is which is a bit more burgundian. This wine, despite its age, showed it all up front. The fruit and dried fruit, a bit of herbiness, forest, earth, nuts, mushroom, leather, cigar, and the acidity was all there. Nicely integrated too and fully matured now, but lacking the grace and complete integration ofthe Margaux, you certainly know the difference in class. However, this wine stood up for itself and represented well. Bravo!