Wines Moulis-en-Médoc Château Chasse Spleen - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Château Chasse-Spleen 2020 is a distinguished red wine hailing from the Moulis-en-Médoc appellation in Bordeaux. Predominantly composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, often blended with Merlot and a touch of Petit Verdot, this wine displays the classic profile that has made Médoc reds so enduring. The 2020 vintage benefitted from a warm and sunny year, resulting in grapes that reached optimal ripeness and concentration. After a meticulous hand harvest, the wine underwent careful vinification and ageing in French oak barrels, some new, imparting subtle spice and enhancing its structure. The result in the glass is a deep ruby colour with an aromatic bouquet of blackcurrant, blackberry, cedar, and a whisper of graphite, layered with hints of tobacco and vanilla from oak ageing. The palate is marked by elegant tannins, a vibrant acidity, and a persistent, mineral-inflected finish that speaks to its terroir.

Moulis-en-Médoc is one of the smallest and most westerly appellations in the Médoc, situated on the left bank of the Gironde estuary. Its vineyards benefit from gravelly soils intermingled with clay and limestone, providing excellent drainage and imparting distinctive minerality to the wines. The Atlantic-influenced climate brings mild temperatures and regular rainfall, which, coupled with the protection from prevailing winds, allows a steady and even ripening of the grapes. This region’s history is steeped in winegrowing tradition, with estates like Château Chasse-Spleen earning international acclaim for their consistency and character over centuries.

For food pairings, Château Chasse-Spleen 2020 is a superb companion to classic Bordeaux dishes such as entrecôte bordelaise (grilled rib steak with shallot and red wine sauce), roast lamb with herbs, or magret de canard. The wine’s structure and finesse also shine alongside more rustic fare like wild mushroom risotto or a platter of aged Comté and Tomme de Savoie. Its tannic backbone makes it well-suited to richly flavoured meats and earthy vegetables.

To fully appreciate this wine, decant it for at least one hour and serve at a temperature of 16-18°C. This will enable the aromas and flavours to open up beautifully, revealing the wine’s full complexity and elegance.