The 1998 Château de Fieuzal is a Bordeaux wine from the Pessac-Léognan appellation, located in the Graves region on the Left Bank of Bordeaux. Château de Fieuzal is a respected estate known for producing wines with great finesse and balance, typically a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The 1998 vintage is considered a very good year in Bordeaux, with wines showing solid structure, ripe fruit, and the potential for aging.

Tasting Notes:

• Grape Composition: Château de Fieuzal typically features a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, which provides structure, complexity, and aging potential, with Merlot contributing roundness and fruit-forward flavors. Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot are often present in smaller amounts to add depth and aromatics.
• Color: The 1998 Château de Fieuzal likely has a deep garnet color, with some bricking around the rim, reflecting its age and the maturity of the wine.
• Aroma: The bouquet of this wine should be expressive and complex, with initial aromas of ripe black fruits such as blackcurrant, plum, and blackberry. Over time, these primary fruit notes evolve into secondary and tertiary characteristics. Expect to find nuances of leather, tobacco, cedar, and spice, as well as earthy elements like forest floor, truffle, and dried herbs. The wine should have an elegant perfume, typical of Pessac-Léognan, with a subtle smokiness from oak aging.
• Palate: The 1998 Château de Fieuzal is likely to be medium to full-bodied, with smooth, integrated tannins and good acidity that provides balance and freshness. The fruit flavors of blackcurrant and plum will be complemented by savory notes of tobacco, leather, and earth. There may also be hints of graphite, cedar, and spice, which add complexity. The wine should have a long, elegant finish with lingering notes of dark fruit, leather, and subtle earthy flavors.
• Aging Potential: The 1998 vintage is now reaching its mature drinking window. While it is likely to be at or near its peak, it still has the structure to age for several more years if properly stored. However, it is at a stage where the balance of fruit, tannin, and acidity makes it a great choice to enjoy now.

Food Pairing:

This wine pairs well with a variety of hearty, savory dishes. Ideal pairings include roast lamb, beef tenderloin, grilled steaks, or duck breast. It would also complement dishes with earthy flavors, such as mushroom risotto, truffle dishes, or wild game. Aged cheeses, like Comté, Gruyère, or a mature Brie, would also work well.

The 1998 Château de Fieuzal is an excellent example of a well-aged Bordeaux from Pessac-Léognan, offering both elegance and depth. Its complexity and balance make it a great wine to enjoy on special occasions, especially for those who appreciate mature Bordeaux wines with a refined character.