Le Petite Ducru de Ducru Beaucaillou Saint Julien Bordeaux

Description

Le Petit Ducru de Ducru-Beaucaillou 2021 is a distinguished Saint-Julien wine from the esteemed Château Ducru-Beaucaillou estate. With a legacy spanning over 300 years, this iconic property has been under the stewardship of the Borie family since 1941. The château’s name, translating to “beautiful pebbles,” reflects its unique terroir composed of Günzian and Pyrenean gravel soils deposited by the Gironde estuary nearly two million years ago.

The 2021 vintage presented challenges, including frosts, millerandage, and mildew. However, meticulous vineyard management and favourable conditions during the latter part of the growing season allowed for the production of high-quality fruit.

Le Petit Ducru 2021 is a blend of 80% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 8% Petit Verdot. The wine underwent a 12-month ageing process in Bordeaux barrels, with 30% new oak and the remainder in second-fill barrels. Regular topping-up during the first six months and four rackings every two to three months ensured optimal development.

In the glass, Le Petit Ducru 2021 exhibits an intense purple hue. The expressive nose reveals aromas of red and black fruits, including plum and blackberry, complemented by delicate spring flowers and subtle notes of liquorice and vanilla bean upon aeration. The palate offers a tight and intense attack, followed by a mid-palate bursting with bright fruits and a creamy texture. Fine tannins lead to a pleasant finish with lingering notes of cherry and spiced mocha.

Critics have praised this vintage for its balance and approachability. Antonio Galloni of Vinous awarded it 90-92 points, highlighting its “soft, fruity and charming” character with notes of dark cherry, spice, leather, tobacco, mocha, and dried herbs. Jane Anson rated it 91 points, noting its “clear density” and “forward motion,” with a structure and concentration that reflect the estate’s commitment to quality.