1996 Chateau Palmer

ABOUT THE WINE
Château Palmer is named after a British officer, Colonel Charles Palmer (later Maj. General), who settled in Bordeaux in 1814. It is located in the centre of the Margaux appellation, and its vineyards lie on a plateau of clay and gravel soils. Historically the estate has always prided itself on the exceptional quality of its wines, declassifying whole vintages (as in 1963 and 1968) when conditions weren’t conducive to the usual high standards of the property. Classified as a 3ème Cru Classé, it punches significantly above its classification. Since the 2017 vintage, they have been certified 100% biodynamic.

TASTING NOTES
A stunningly classic vintage of Palmer. The nose of the 1996 presents ripe red berries, fresh cherries, and a touch of tar, liquorice, and tobacco, with some black cherry and candied orange zest. On the palate, juicy notes of liquorice, are highly elegant and balanced, with good length and a silky texture. The wine is medium to full-bodied, with a tannic structure that is silky and well-balanced. The finish is long and layered with hints of cedar, ripe fruit, and cedary complexity. The wine is still in the fruit phase, with good grip and freshness, and is highly typical of its appellation. The perfect bottle for a small gathering where you want something that will tick all the boxes.

FOOD PAIRING
Classics are best paired with classic dishes. Delectable with butter-roasted quail with a blackberry sauce, dry-aged porterhouse with truffle-rosemary roast potatoes, or even a hearty Cioppino made with fresh-caught ingredients.

FRIARWOOD SAYS
The summer has been cooler than usual but still sunny, creating ideal conditions for the production of great Cabernet in Bordeaux. Hence, the vintage is particularly noteworthy for its classic character.