1985 Chateau Haut Marbuzet - 750ml
The 1985 Château Haut-Marbuzet is a wine from the Saint-Estèphe appellation in Bordeaux, known for its powerful, structured wines that typically offer great aging potential. Château Haut-Marbuzet, while not classified in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, is highly regarded for producing wines of excellent quality, often comparable to those of the classified growths in the region. The 1985 vintage in Bordeaux is considered a solid year, with wines that have evolved beautifully and offer a nice balance of fruit, tannin, and complexity.
Tasting Notes:
- Grape Composition: Château Haut-Marbuzet is typically a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot and smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The Cabernet Sauvignon provides structure, depth, and dark fruit flavors, while the Merlot adds roundness and fruitiness.
- Color: The 1985 Château Haut-Marbuzet likely has a deep, dark ruby color, with some bricking at the rim as a sign of its age. It should still show a youthful core but with the depth that comes with over three decades of aging.
- Aroma: The bouquet of the 1985 Château Haut-Marbuzet is complex and evolved, with initial aromas of dried dark fruit such as blackcurrant, blackberry, and plum, which have developed into more tertiary characteristics over the years. Expect notes of tobacco, leather, cedar, and earthy elements such as forest floor and dried herbs. The wine may also show hints of truffle, spice, and a touch of cigar box, typical of aged Bordeaux. The overall nose is elegant and layered, with a deep, mature profile.
- Palate: On the palate, the 1985 Château Haut-Marbuzet is medium to full-bodied, with well-integrated, softened tannins that have aged beautifully. The wine should have a smooth, velvety texture, with flavors of dried dark fruit like blackcurrant and plum, along with earthy, savory notes of tobacco, leather, and cedar. There may also be subtle hints of graphite, spice, and a touch of minerality. The acidity should still be present, providing balance to the wine, and the finish should be long and refined, with lingering notes of dark fruit, tobacco, and earth.
- Aging Potential: The 1985 vintage has aged beautifully and is likely at or near its peak drinking window. While it may still have some life left, it is best enjoyed now to fully appreciate the complexity and elegance that have developed with age.
Food Pairing:
The 1985 Château Haut-Marbuzet pairs wonderfully with rich, savory dishes such as roast lamb, grilled steaks, or beef tenderloin. It would also complement dishes with earthy flavors, like mushroom risotto, truffle-infused recipes, or duck. Aged cheeses such as Comté, Gruyère, or a mature Brie would also be an excellent match.
The 1985 Château Haut-Marbuzet is an excellent example of a well-aged Bordeaux from Saint-Estèphe, offering complexity, elegance, and maturity. It is a wine that has evolved over the years, providing a refined and satisfying drinking experience for those who appreciate the depth and character of aged Bordeaux wines.
Specifications
| Country | France |
| Region | Bordeaux |
| Sub-Region | St Estephe |
| Vintage | 1985 |
| Grape | Cabernet / Merlot |
| Volume | 750ml |
| ABV | 13% |
| Food Pairing | Beef, Venison |
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