Viniou Reviews
Château Beauséjour 2004 from the Puisseguin-Saint-Émilion AOC is a classic Bordeaux red, crafted predominantly from Merlot, which thrives on the clay-limestone soils of this right bank appellation. Merlot, often blended with smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc and sometimes Cabernet Sauvignon, forms the backbone of wines from this region, delivering a plush, round texture with ripe plum and dark berry fruit, alongside hints of earth, tobacco, and subtle oak from traditional Bordeaux ageing. As a wine from the 2004 vintage, it benefits from several years of bottle age, which should have softened the tannins and allowed complex developed aromas—such as forest floor, truffle, and dried fruit—to emerge. The château’s dedication to organic viticulture further accentuates the wine’s sense of purity and terroir expression, placing emphasis on authentic fruit character and minimal intervention winemaking.
Puisseguin-Saint-Émilion is situated in the Libournais, just to the north of the venerable Saint-Émilion appellation. The region enjoys a temperate maritime climate, mitigated by the proximity of the Dordogne River, which helps regulate extremes and allows for a long, gentle ripening season. The soils are characterised by a harmonious blend of clay and limestone, known for imparting structure and freshness, and providing Merlot with its favourite growing conditions. The history of winemaking here stretches back centuries, with a strong tradition of crafting supple, generous reds with notable aging potential.
Such a wine calls for food pairings that complement its mellow maturity and earthy complexity. Classic Bordeaux matches include roast lamb with garlic and rosemary, duck breast, or confit de canard—particularly dishes that offer a touch of richness to echo the wine’s depth and evolved savoury notes. Dishes from the region, such as entrecôte bordelaise (steak with a red wine and shallot sauce), or mushroom-based recipes, complement the tertiary nuances. Mature cheeses, like aged Comté or Cantal, are also splendid partners.
To fully appreciate its bouquet and silky structure, serve Château Beauséjour 2004 at 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour prior to service will further enhance its complexity and allow the subtle tertiary aromas to unfurl, providing a rewarding and harmonious tasting experience.
