Viniou Reviews
Château Mauvesin Barton 2015 is a red Bordeaux wine hailing from the prestigious appellation of Moulis-en-Médoc, located on Bordeaux’s Left Bank. Crafted predominantly from a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and smaller proportions of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, this vintage reflects both the savoir-faire of the Barton family and the unique terroir of the estate. The 2015 vintage, widely celebrated across Bordeaux for its excellent weather conditions, delivers ripe fruit and supple tannins. The vinification is traditional, with careful extraction and maturation in French oak barrels, allowing the wine to marry notes of dark berries, plum, subtle cedar, liquorice, and a hint of graphite. The palate is structured yet elegant, with a refined balance between freshness and roundness, suggesting both early enjoyment and potential for further ageing.
The Moulis-en-Médoc appellation, though less expansive than its more famous neighbours, has a rich history and is prized for its gravelly soils mixed with clay and limestone, providing ideal drainage and mineral complexity. The region benefits from the temperate maritime climate of Bordeaux, with moderate rainfall and ample sunshine promoting a long, even ripening season. This microclimate, combined with centuries of viticultural expertise, helps create wines that are both approachable and age-worthy, known for finesse and aromatic depth.
To highlight the wine’s aromatics and supple texture, pair Château Mauvesin Barton 2015 with roast lamb, beef fillet, duck breast with red fruit reduction, or hearty mushroom dishes. Classic Bordelais fare such as entrecôte à la bordelaise or a rustic cassoulet would be deliciously appropriate, as would aged cheeses like Comté or Mimolette, which echo the wine’s earthy undertones.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for an hour before serving to allow it to open up and express its full bouquet. Serve at around 16-18°C to best appreciate its balance of fruit, structure and complexity. With careful cellaring, this wine will continue to evolve gracefully over the next decade.
