Wines Haut-Médoc Château Belgrave - 1999

Château Belgrave 1999 is a distinguished red wine from the Haut-Médoc appellation in Bordeaux, bearing the coveted Grand Cru classification. This vintage is primarily based on the classic Médoc blend, dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Harvested in 1999, this wine reflects a balanced vintage, marked by a relatively early and steady ripening season. The gravelly soil of the Château’s vineyards contributes elegance and finesse, whilst meticulous vinification, including extended maceration and ageing in French oak barrels, has nurtured its tannic structure and aromatic complexity.

The Haut-Médoc region lies on the left bank of the Gironde estuary, benefiting from a temperate maritime climate. The gravelly, well-draining soils are particularly suitable for Cabernet Sauvignon, promoting deep root systems and moderate vigour, which in turn yield grapes with concentrated flavours. Bordeaux’s rich history as a wine-producing region dates back centuries, and estates like Château Belgrave are woven into the fabric of Médoc’s winemaking tradition, consistently producing wines with remarkable ageing potential and typicity.

Pairing Château Belgrave 1999 is a real pleasure, especially now that the wine shows tertiary notes from bottle age, such as leather, cedar, and truffle, alongside residual dark fruit and subtle oak. Grilled or roasted lamb with rosemary, classic beef Wellington, or duck confit are excellent accompaniments, as is a regional specialty like entrecôte à la bordelaise. For a cheese board, opt for mature hard cheeses — aged Comté or Cantal will highlight the wine’s nuance.

To fully appreciate Château Belgrave 1999, serve it at 17-18°C in large Bordeaux glasses, ideally after decanting for at least one hour to help it open up and reveal its aromatic complexity. The wine is at a mature stage, so enjoy its subtlety and harmony now, accompanied by thoughtful food pairings.