Wines Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Château Trapaud - Cuvée de l'Appelle - 2013

Viniou Reviews

Château Trapaud 2013 Cuvée de l'Appelle is a classic expression of Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, showcasing the elegance and complexity that define this esteemed appellation. While exact details of the blend are not specified, most Saint-Émilion wines are dominated by Merlot, typically complemented by Cabernet Franc and sometimes a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2013 vintage was characterised by a cooler and more challenging growing season in Bordeaux, resulting in wines of moderate alcohol, well-defined acidity and refined tannins. Vinification for a Grand Cru such as this would involve careful sorting, traditional fermentation, and ageing in French oak barrels to bring out both freshness and subtle complexity.

The Saint-Émilion region, nestled on Bordeaux’s right bank, is renowned for its unique soils composed of limestone, clay and sandy gravels. This diversity allows for supple, aromatic Merlot to flourish, married with the aromatic lift and structure provided by Cabernet Franc. With a long heritage dating back to Roman times, Saint-Émilion is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a reference point for the world’s great Merlot-based blends. The climate here is moderate and maritime, bringing enough rainfall and soft seasonal changes to nurture slow ripening and nuanced flavour profiles.

For food pairings, this Saint-Émilion Grand Cru is ideally suited to refined yet hearty dishes. Local specialities such as entrecôte à la bordelaise, slow-cooked lamb shoulder or duck breast with savoury sauce will complement the wine’s elegant tannins and red fruit notes. Mushroom-based dishes, roasted root vegetables or mature hard cheeses like Comté or aged Cheddar also harmonise beautifully, especially considering the 2013 vintage’s freshness and subtlety.

To fully appreciate the aromatic complexity and soft tannins of this 2013 vintage, it is best enjoyed at a serving temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting for thirty to sixty minutes will allow the wine to open up, revealing delicate notes of red berries, tobacco and subtle spice.