| Brand | Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou |
| Appellation | Saint‑Julien, Bordeaux, France |
| Vintage | 2012/2014/2016 |
| Oak Treatment | French Oak |
| Aging | 18 months / 13-13.5% abv |
| Total Varietal Composition % | Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot |
Product details
Château Ducru‑Beaucaillou, one of the esteemed Second Growths of Saint‑Julien since the 1855 classification, has belonged to the Borie family since 1941, with roots stretching back to 1720. Nestled on gravel-rich terroirs perched above the Gironde estuary, the estate benefits from well‑drained soils and a temperate maritime climate, ideal for growing Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with remarkable precision and elegance. Each vintage in this trio—2012, 2014, and 2016—is matured 18 months in oak barrels (50–80% new), reflecting the estate’s meticulous barrel selection and aging philosophy, ensuring structure without losing Margaux finesse.
The 2012 vintage reveals a refined blend of dark fruits, elegant spice, and smooth, polished tannins—offering immediate approachability yet the structure for further cellaring.
The 2014 expresses deeper layers of Cabernet Sauvignon, with rich garnet hues, nuanced notes of dark berries, cassis, and cedar, unveiling its character after aeration.
The 2016 is often hailed as exceptional—saturated with crème de cassis, espresso, and graphite aromas, followed by layers of black plum, tobacco leaf, and savory spice framed by firm, finely grained tannins and a long, resonant finish. Together, this collection offers a journey through Margaux’s stylistic signatures—from mature grace to opulent power.
Food Pairing Recommendations: Each vintage beautifully complements hearty, richly flavored cuisine. Serve alongside grilled ribeye or venison with rosemary jus to highlight the wines’ depth and structure. Roast lamb with herb-infused jus or earthy mushroom risotto bring out their complex berry notes and subtle minerality.
