Wines Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Château Boutisse - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Château Boutisse 2018, from the prestigious Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation, is a red wine that exemplifies the elegance and depth associated with the Right Bank of Bordeaux. Crafted predominantly from Merlot, supported by Cabernet Franc and a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2018 vintage benefited from ideal climatic conditions, with a warm, dry summer ensuring full ripeness of the grapes. The terroir, marked by clay-limestone soils, imparts both structure and freshness to the wine. Vinification at Château Boutisse is traditional, with careful extraction and a balanced use of oak, resulting in a wine that combines power, ripe black fruit concentration (plum, blackberry), and a refined, long-lasting finish, interlaced with subtle notes of spice and graphite.

Saint-Émilion has a storied history, with winemaking traditions dating back to Roman times. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its undulating hills, renowned châteaux, and patchwork of clay-limestone and sandy soils, perfectly suited to cultivating Merlot. The climate is temperate with moderate rainfall, allowing for slow ripening and complexity in the wines. Grand Cru status in this region signifies a higher standard of viticulture and stricter regulations, which is evident in the quality and age-worthiness of Château Boutisse.

In terms of food pairings, this Saint-Émilion Grand Cru will elevate classic French cuisine, such as entrecôte bordelaise or lamb shoulder with rosemary and garlic. Rich dishes like duck breast with a red wine reduction, wild mushroom risotto, or hearty game birds, will complement the wine’s structure and subtle earthy notes. For a regional match, opt for a dish featuring Saint-Nectaire or Cantal cheese, or a traditional cassoulet.

For optimal enjoyment, decant Château Boutisse 2018 for at least an hour to help it fully express its aromatic complexity. Serve it at a temperature of 16-18°C, allowing the tannins to soften and the intricate flavours to emerge gracefully in the glass.