Château Bellegrave, grand vin Bordeaux Château Bellegrave, grand vin Bordeaux Château Bellegrave, grand vin Bordeaux

Château
Bellegrave
2022 Vintage

A unique, magnificent vintage!

Bud break was early following a mild, dry winter. Spring was also mild yet rainy, with no threat of diseases.

Water reserves in the soil helped the vines withstand the heatwave conditions and water stress during summer.

Véraison (colour change) was even for both grape varieties. Thanks to storms in August followed by a series of cool mornings and hot afternoons in September, the grapes ripened gradually until they could be picked at the ideal time.

The small size of the berries concentrated the phenolic compounds of the grapes, resulting in a very high tannin/anthocyanin ratio.

During fermentation, the colour and aromas were extracted very quickly. We were particularly vigilant, choosing very gentle extraction at low temperature.

Colour, smoothness and richness are the hallmarks of this vintage.

It should be highlighted that the yields are historically low due to the dry summer!

“This 2022 vintage is quite simply extraordinary, and the greatest we have ever produced to this day! Balance, rich tannins, aromatic expression (black fruit) and freshness are the watchwords here… Gentle extraction during fermentation was undoubtedly key to revealing the quintessential characteristics of each grape variety.”

Ludovic & Julien Meffre - April 2023

Blend : 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2021 Vintage

Spring 2021 was cool and wet in the region, with localised frost. Fortunately, the Gironde Estuary helped to protect our vineyards, sparing them from the vagaries of the weather.

The meteorological conditions were particularly conducive to the spread of mildew, which posed a significant threat throughout the growing season.

While initially slow to emerge, the summer eventually set in, with a sunny and fairly dry month of August, albeit without excess heat. These conditions were favourable to slow, optimum ripening, which led to a later harvest than last year and an equally small crop.

The 2021 vintage saw the return to a classic, technical vintage, with the freshness and structure that Bordeaux wines are famous for.

“After fearing and eventually being spared from the spring frost, this vintage allowed us to showcase our technical expertise in more difficult weather conditions compared to previous years! Predominantly made from Cabernet Sauvignon, with a more traditional balance between alcohol and acidity, our wines are incredibly elegant and harmonious.”

Ludovic & Julien Meffre - April 2022

Blend : 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2020 Vintage

2020, an extraordinary vintage

While the world went into lockdown during spring, the vine buds burst three weeks earlier than usual, following a very mild winter! As a result, we had to adapt our activities in accordance with health regulations.

High rainfall and warm weather post-flowering increased the threat of mildew in the vineyards. We nevertheless managed to keep the situation under control thanks to our unrelenting attention.

The summer was marked by a series of heatwaves. Hot days and cool nights during the first two weeks of September were conducive to optimum ripening and an early harvest. The 2020 vintage is now looking very promising, with fabulous wines in store, boasting excellent potential!.

“Due to the drought conditions, the berries were much smaller than usual, which led volumes to decrease by around 25%. The quality is excellent, with beautifully concentrated, deeply-coloured wines displaying outstanding balance between alcohol, acidity, and silky tannins. 2020 has all the hallmarks of a great vintage, produced in a year that made world history...”

Ludovic & Julien Meffre - April 2021

Blend : 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2019 Vintage

Quite, Quite simply, a very good vintage

Early bud break due to the mild winter slowed down vegetative growth, letting flowering take place in cool weather with no significant effects on the future harvest.

The summer was exceptionally hot, leading to significant water stress in the vines, but this was limited by much-awaited rainfall! Therefore, ripening was not halted, conducive to quick and homogeneous véraison (colour change).

Thanks to a dry, warm and sunny month of September, the grapes gradually developed good colour and tannin potential characteristic of a very fine vintage.

“The 2019 vintage at our estates is once again in line with some of the greatest. Even though the vines experienced significant water stress, this did not halt ripening. Wines from this vintage have a high alcohol content, but nevertheless present an impressive fruitiness and a beautiful tannic structure, resulting in a well-balanced blend thanks especially to the remarkable Cabernet Sauvignons!”

Blend : 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2018 Vintage

An unusual vintage which looks set to rival the greatest!

ADespite the difficult weather conditions lasting until early summer, we were able to contain the spread of highly aggressive mildew. Subsequent above-average sunshine combined with alternating hot days and cool nights were conducive to optimum grape ripening.

Quick, even véraison (colour change) produced reliably fine wines.

«The weather conditions at the start of the growing season were particularly difficult, but the end result is wonderful. The fact that we were able wait patiently and harvest the grapes ‘à la carte’ meant that we could extract their quintessential fruitiness. Round, concentrated, and well-balanced with an impressive freshness on the palate, 2018 is unquestionably one of the greatest vintages of the 21st century».

Blend : 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2017 Vintage

Our privileged terroir escaped the spring frost!

After a relatively dry winter, spring weather was very beautiful and bud break particularly early. Flowering took place under ideal conditions.

Unfortunately, Bordeaux was hit by a frost in late April, the worst since 1991, with disastrous results. However, our terroir were totally spared, which enabled the vines to continue growing and for the grapes to ripen well. The great diurnal temperature variation at the end of the growing season was conducive to good colour in the grapes.

«We are aware that we are very fortunate to be among those estates that were totally spared by a terrible climatic accident. We were therefore able to produce a generous crop of good, homogeneous quality. The wines are concentrated, deeply-coloured, and aromatic, with beautiful balance – wines that have nothing to be ashamed of when compared to the outstanding 2015s and 2016s...»

Blend : 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2016

A very unusual vintage!

Even though the first six months of the year were particularly rainy, flowering took place quickly and evenly during one of the rare dry spells.

This period was followed by a long stretch of hot, dry weather lasting from mid-June to mid-September. This series of extreme conditions raised fears about the fragility of grapes and vines. However, meticulous work in the vineyard made it possible to anticipate and protect vines from the drought this summer and to reveal the crop’s full potential.

The harvest was very spread out and the grapes in each plot were picked when perfectly ripe. Every aspect of 2016 was conducive to producing a great vintage!

«Ideal ripening in 2016 enabled us to make very rich, deeply-coloured wines with no heaviness or hints of cooked fruit. They are very fresh on both the nose and the palate and have huge ageing potential!»

Blend : 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2015

Nature is generous!

Developments during the growing season (bud break, flowering, and ripening) were particularly quick and even thanks to very advantageous weather, especially during flowering. Fruit set went very well, resulting in yields that were bountiful in a way we had not seen for a decade. We must acknowledge that nature was really very kind and generous to us.

There was some water stress in summer, but not too much.

September weather was perfect – not overly hot, but with beautiful sunshine followed by cool nights in the latter part of the month. Ripening was spread out over a long period, which is generally the key to a great vintage!

Blend : 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2014

A miracle vintage!

After a wet, mild winter, weather in the spring of 2014 was similar to that of the previous year. However, summer weather was poor: cool, with regular showers. To compensate for these difficult conditions, we paid extra special attention to the state of the leaf canopy, which is essential for good ripening. Thanks to the absence of rain, temperatures close to 30°C, and wonderful sunshine, the month of September was simply incredible. This superb weather brought about the necessary water stress for good ripening. The thermal amplitude between cool night-time temperatures and warm daytime ones was conducive to excellent colour.

«The quality of the leaf canopy and the perfect weather during the last five weeks of the growing season saved the vintage. The grapes had excellent natural concentration with a fine balance between sugar and acidity. The wines are very fruity, balanced, deeply coloured, and have very high-quality tannin».

Blend : 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2013

A vintage calling for great technical expertise!

One of the main characteristics of the 2013 vintage was late fl owering during cold, wet weather that led to severe coulure in Merlot.

Green pruning needed to be extremely meticulous and the grapes had to be picked very quickly. Precision winemaking was conducive to deeply-coloured, fruity wines despite the diffi cult weather conditions.

«Our responsiveness during the harvest, coupled with rigorous sorting during blending enabled us to obtain a very fruity, attractive wine. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, which constitute the majority at the estate, were ripe and with suffi cient structure to provide great balance to the wine.»

Blend : 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2012

The grapes are handled with the greatest of care!

The beginning of the 2012 growing season was quite challenging, but this was compensated by months of August and September that were hot and dry – ideal for ripening.

Despite the late harvest and low yields, we made sure to do our utmost to cope with the uneven quality in certain plots by carefully planning the picking order, picking in several passes, and bleeding wine off from fermentation vats.

These operations, as well as careful temperature control and pumping over during fermentation, enabled the various lots to maintain their full aromatic potential and each grape variety to express itself. The Merlot wines were deeply-coloured and round with beautiful ripe fruit aromas. The Cabernet Sauvignon wines were concentrated with quality tannin. The final blend is powerful (but not exuberant) and well-balanced, with good ageing potential.

Blend : 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2011

A very early vintage !

Apart from a cold, snowy spell in December 2010, the winter was mild and dry.
The key characteristic of the growing season was the absence of spring, as winter was followed directly by summer, with extraordinarily warm weather in April and May that accelerated the vines' vegetative growth, resulting in a particularly early bud-break and early, rapid flowering. The water deficit remained severe up until mid-July, when véraison, or colour change, started.
There was regular rainfall from then until September, followed by abnormally hot, sunny weather for the season, leading to difficult conditions that were particularly favourable to complete ripening of the Cabernet Sauvignon.
However, Cabernet Sauvignon, the dominant grape variety on our estate, produced very low yields.
We paid special attention not to extract too much tannin during fermentation, in order to ensure that our wines reflected the true character of our appellation. As a result, our wines are very fruity with very voluptuous tannins, which are likely to be lovely to drink when young. A real winemaker's vintage…

Blend : 51 % Cabernet Sauvignon - 49 % Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2010

Another outstanding vintage!

Who would have believed it possible after a 2009 vintage praised to the skies?
The 2010 growing season started out very well, without the threat of vine diseases, which meant that little spraying was necessary. Although flowering in Merlot vines was upset by cold, wet weather that led to low yields, the dry, very sunny weather that followed – but without a heat wave – led to quick véraison (change of colour of the grape berries) and the onset of ripening. Limited rainfall in early September, coupled with continued sunshine and high daytime temperatures, were conducive to perfect ripening of the grape skins and seeds. The juice was highly concentrated thanks to the small size of the berries.
The wines show considerable aromatic complexity. They are also powerful with a velvety texture. Although alcohol levels were very high, this was balanced by greater acidity than in 2009, which bodes well for excellent ageing potential…

Blend : 66 % Cabernet Sauvignon - 34 % Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2009

Like 2005, the 2009 vintage benefited from early, even flowering and fruit set (despite a wet spring), as well as early véraison (colour change) and optimum ripening due to hot, dry weather in August and September. Thanks to exceptionally dry conditions in September and October, accompanied by cool night-time temperatures, we can objectively say that we able to undertake a “dream harvest” in late September. All of these factors, which rarely occur simultaneously, have probably produced one of the greatest vintages Bordeaux has ever seen !!

“For us, this vintage is in line with 2007 and 2008. The beginning of the growing season was especially challenging because of the risk of vine diseases. We needed to be vigilant and present in the vineyard at all times. However, nature ended up by spoiling us... Both of our estates were spared by the hail that struck certain neighbouring appellations and we also escaped torrential showers that occurred elsewhere at crucial stages during the ripening period.
The weather forecast was optimistic and reassuring for weeks on end, so we were able to calmly wait for optimum maturity. The grapes were picked at peak ripeness without any need to hurry. These outstanding conditions were conducive to wines with ideal richness and perfect balance! The alcoholic degree may have been high, but this was compensated by a fine tannic structure and excellent acidity! Each and every lot had the characteristics of a great year… The en primeur tastings confirmed that our wines from this vintage are truly outstanding!”

Blend : 66 % Cabernet Sauvignon - 34 % Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2008

The 2008 growing season and the ripening of the grapes that year were confronted with fairly capricious weather conditions: strong showers alternating with bright sunshine, cold spells, and hot periods! This sort of weather is unfortunately conducive
to vine diseases…

However, starting in mid-September, fine weather, with cool nocturnal temperatures accompanied by a breeze, eliminated the risk of disease and provided the grapes with enough sunlight for good ripening. This was nevertheless very slow, and the first plots of Merlot were harvested on the 30th of September, and first Cabernet Sauvignon grapes on the 8th of October. 2008 will thus be remembered as a difficult and late-maturing vintage saved by a sunny autumn as well as the many efforts in the vineyard to compensate for the challenging weather.

Blend : 59 % Cabernet Sauvignon - 41 % Merlot

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Château Bellegrave
2007

In 2007, February was unusually warm and April extremely hot and sunny, triggering an extraordinarily early start to the growing season (almost 3 weeks). This effect was attenuated by very wet weather in
May and a significant lack of sunshine throughout the summer.

Thanks to the anticyclone that settled in after August 30th, the grapes were able to reach technological, phenolic, and aromatic ripeness. The Indian summer was outstanding, comparable to 2002, making it
possible to pick each plot and grape variety at peak ripeness.

The Merlot is very rich, with superb aromatic complexity and the Cabernet Sauvignon, a later-ripening grape variety, benefitted fully from the long period of fine autumn weather to ripen and develop their full color at their own pace. Extra work in the vineyard (frequent spraying and thinning operations) was expensive, but necessary to cope with this year's demanding weather conditions.

Blend : 62 % Cabernet Sauvignon - 38 % Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2006

The relatively wet winter in 2006 replenished the water reserves depleted by drought in recent years. Then, the relatively dry spring enabled the vines to flower rapidly, under good conditions: in late May for the Merlot and early June for the Cabernets.

Very hot July weather accelerated the vegetative cycle, stopping vine growth and triggering early color change. The fine promise of another outstanding vintage was spoiled by poor weather in August (cool temperatures and relatively little sunshine).

However, the 2006 vintage still turned out very well, as timely leaf-and bunch-thinning enabled all the grape varieties to ripen very nicely. The sugar and phenolic levels were particularly high, combined with fairly low acidity and unusually aromatic fruit.

Blend : 65 % Cabernet Sauvignon - 35 % Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2005

The 2005 vintage will be remembered for the very high quality of the wines, thanks to a very dry winter, followed by hot, sunny weather in spring and summer, but no heatwaves.

This climate brought the grapes to optimum phenolic maturity, producing grapes with particularly high sugar levels, good acidity, and lots of fruit and color. Picking started on September 26th for the Merlot and September 30th for the Cabernets.

The only disappointment was the low yield: only 39 hectoliters per hectare. The resulting wines were tannic, soft, fruity, and very well-balanced, in spite of the relatively high alcohol levels... meeting all the criteria for an outstanding vintage!

Blend : 58 % Cabernet Sauvignon - 42 % Merlot

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Château
Bellegrave
2004

The surprising nature of this vintage was obvious as early as flowering. There were numerous blossoms producing many buds and large bunches, as though the vine had accumulated reserves during the preceding two years.

However, thanks to rather severe bunch pruning, yields were kept under control. The weather in 2004 was average, with normal summer temperatures and good sunshine, a nice month of September, and cool night time temperatures that prevented rot from developing.

We were able to wait for optimum ripeness an order to pick (30 September for Merlot and 8 October for the Cabernets). Fermentation was over in short order and we took special pains not to overly extract the wine because of the high level of tannin.

Blend : 60 % Cabernet Sauvignon - 40 % Merlot

Château
Bellegrave
2003

The year 2003 will long be remembered for its tremendous heat wave. The crop was exceedingly early-maturing, with fairly low yields (42 hectoliters per hectare). Weather throughout the growing season was exceptional. Choosing the right time to pick was especially delicate, calling for a compromise between very high sugar and very low acidity.

The grapes arrived in the cellar at a relatively high temperature in 2003. The juice was quite sweet and acidity was low, but sufficient. A few showers in early September gave rise to the fear that rot might set in, but the arrival of dry, hot weather dissipated any anxiety, and the fruit was superbly ripe and healthy.

Blend : 62 % Cabernet Sauvignon - 38% Merlot

Château
Bellegrave
2002

The weather was dry and fairly mild at the beginning of the growing season. However, cold wet weather set in during flowering, bringing it to a standstill and leaving uneven ripeness in its wake.

The weather was terrible most of the rest of the growing season. The month of September was nevertheless dry and sunny, which let us salvage a difficult vintage. The grapes were picked later than usual under sunny skies. The fruit was healthy with uncommonly high sugar levels, but with very low yields.

Deep colour. Very expressive bouquet of berry fruit and toasty oak. Very ripe, round tannin combined with attractive acidity, a sign of good ageing potential. Peak: 2008-2012

Château
Bellegrave
2001

Winter was wet and mild. Thanks to warm, dry weather in May and June, flowering took place evenly and quickly. Leaf thinning and bunch thinning contributed to optimum ripeness, and made it possible to begin picking in early October.

Château Bellegrave has a beautiful colour and a bouquet of mixed red fruit, spice, and slightly toasty overtones. This wine starts out soft on the palate with smooth tannins. It is already very pleasant to drink an should peak between 2006 and 2008.

Château
Bellegrave
2000

After a fairly cold winter, spring was very wet and cold, which inevitably slowed down vine growth. For the first time, leaf thinning was done entirely by hand on the entire estate.

The weather was perfect during vintage, enabling us to produce powerful, very deeply-coloured wines with complex tannic structure.

This vintage has a particularly deep colour and a nose of ripe berry fruit with hints of vanilla and toasty oak. There is plenty of ripe tannin accompanied by lovely acidity that will surely provide outstanding ageing potential.

Château
Bellegrave
1999

Weather was satisfactory throughout the growing season, with relatively mild temperatures and fairly evenly distributed rainfall in winter. The threat of vine diseases was great, so the vineyards were frequently sprayed.

The three weeks before the vintage were hot, dry, and conducive to good ripening. Although the weather was dull, overcast, and wet during the harvest, the wines give every indication of being promising thanks to rigorous sorting.

Press Château
Bellegrave
2022 Vintage

Markus Del Monego - Tastingbook: 92+/100
Dark purple colour with violet hue and almost blackcore. Elegant nose with fine fruit, black currants, elderberries and hints of blackcurrant spurs, mild spices and subtle oak in the background. On the palate sweet fruit and ripe tannins, well balanced with very good length.

James Suckling : 93-94/100
Notes of cassis, spices and graphite. Medium to full-bodied. Firm and linear with compact structure and a dense, velvety finish.

Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider : 90-92/100
Black currants, savory herbs, cedar, and tobacco form the nose. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, chewy, crunchy, and crisp, with a strong, savory, and peppery edge. This is quite classic, old-school in style, that some tasters will like more than others. Drink from 2026-2042.

Yves Beck : 93-94/100
Bien inspiré de son terroir, Bellegrave révèle de classiques nuances de graphite et de tabac blond auxquelles s’ajoutent des parfums de pivoines, de sureau et de bois de réglisse. De bonne densité, le vin se distingue par son harmonie. Ses tannins aux grains fins lui assurent une belle assise tandis que la structure acide se charge de lui conférer du tempérament et de la fraîcheur. Un vin qui dispose d’une élégante puissance et de beaux amers favorisant l’expression fruitée et la persistance aromatique de la finale. 2028-2047

Bernard Burtschy: 91-93/100

Adrian Van Velsen - vvWine: 91-93/100
Kräftige Farbe, dichte, undurchsichtige Nase, viel Frucht, viele Röstaromen, noch verschlossen, jedoch Tiefgang und Komplexität andeutend. Im Gaumen mit opulenter Frucht, sehr feines Tannin, top Balance, der Wein hat Fülle, Rasse und Eleganz, hallt lange nach, wird wunderbar reifen. Hohes Niveau.

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2021 Vintage

Markus Del Monego - Tastingbook: 92/100
Dark purple colour with violet hue andb lackcore. Well structured and concentrated nose with persistent character, ripe blackcurrants and elderberries, hints of sloe in the background, backed by fine toasting, elegant oak and discreet spiciness. On the palate well structured, full-bodied character with convincing length, ripe yet firm tannins, dark berries, mild spices andfine toasting in the finish.

James Suckling : 90-91/100

Neal Martin - Vinous : 90-92/100

Yves Beck : 93-94/100
Belle intensité du bouquet de Bellegrave qui révèle des notes de cassis et de mûres suivies de nuances de graphite et de menthe poivrée. Le vin est doté de tannins aux grains fins, veloutés et parfaitement intégrés. La structure acide confère une tension rafraîchissante et saline qui dynamise le palais, même si celui-ci est plus élancé que d’habitude. L’élevage va certainement encore optimiser cela. Belle réussite. 2026-2046

Bernard Burtschy: 92-93/100
Robe grenat avec des arômes de réglisse. Le vin est frais avec un bon milieu de bouche et une finale épicée. Une belle initiation à Pauillac.

Terre de Vins: 91-92/100

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2020 Vintage

James Suckling: 93-94/100
Impressive blackcurrant and blue-fruit character with so much stone and mineral undertones. It’s full-bodied with chewy tannins that are polished and poised. May be the best yet.

Chris Kissack - WineDoctor : 89-91/100
The 2020 offers up an appealing nose of precisely expressed fruits, blackcurrants, blackberries and currants, with a toast and olive overlay. The palate is savoury in style, with dry and minerally fruits, wrapped up with notes of gravelly earth, moss, liquorice and black truffle. This has undeniable appeal, all this fruit set in a firm medium-bodied structure, with a ripe wrapping of modestly grained tannins, which carry though to a finish of olive and currant. This would make for an interesting alternative to some more famous names in the appellation. To my surprise the alcohol is declared at 15%; it doesn’t come across as that high on the palate.

Markus Del Monego - Tastingbook : 92+/100
Dark purple colour with violet hue and black core. Elegant and expressive nose with refined fruit. Aroma reminiscent of blackcurrants, ripe plums, sloe, vanilla, dark chocolate and toasted gingerbread in the background. On the palate well structured with freshness, ripe and velvety tannins, elegant fruit and hints of minerality. A well balanced with very good length.

Yves Beck : 93-94/100
Le bouquet de Bellegrave véhicule bien la fraîcheur et l’intensité fruitée du Cabernet Sauvignon. Parallèlement, il affiche des nuances de graphite et de poivre. En bouche ce sont les tannins qui prennent le vin en main et qui assurent non seulement sa puissance mais également son avenir. La structure acide se charge de la fraîcheur et soutient l’intensité aromatique de la finale. Un vin de caractère qui mérite un peu de garde. 2026-2050

Terre de Vins: 92/100
Une jolie robe sombre, des notes chocolatées pour le nez, et surtout de jolis tanins, volumineux mais sans agressivité, sur la fraise bien mûre et le cassis. Très belle texture, concentrée. La finale est longue et persistante sur la réglisse douce. Un beau vin qui devra être un peu attendu.

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2019 Vintage

James Suckling: 92-93/100
TThis is a big wine with lots of blackberry and blueberry character and hints of walnuts. It’s medium-bodied with a juicy finish.Balanced.

Decanter - Jane Anson : 92/100
This is an excellent one to take note of for medium-term drinking - loaded up with succulent black fruits that have clear ripeness, blackberry, cinnamon, coffee and spice box notes. Lovelystuff from this (relatively small, 8.75ha) Pauillac estate owned by brothers Ludovic and Julian Meffre. I hesitated over 91 or 92 but frankly the value here is worth being generous. 2023-2036.

Wine advocate - Lisa Perrotti-Brown : 91-93/100
Opaque purple-black colored, the 2019 Bellegrave (Pauillac) sashays out of the glass withalluring scents of crushed raspberries, kirsch and fresh blackcurrants plus hints of dried mint, incense, cloves and cedar chest with a touch of lavender. Medium to full-bodied, the palate isjam-packed with fresh, crunchy black fruits, framed by firm, grainy tannins and loads of freshness, finishing long and lively. Nice!

Wine Enthusiast - Roger Voss : 90/100
This small estate has produced a wine that is already open and soft. The wine’s black currant flavors are bright, coming easily out of the tannins. It is a wine that will age easily and gracefully.

Chris Kissack - WineDoctor : 90-92/100
PA striking colour and depth of pigment in the glass, a dense black-tulip hue, with a huge, opaque saturation to it. Dark, perfumed, smoky, mineral, with smoked black plum, dried blackcurrant, cherry skin and a perfumed note of peony. Rich, plush, polished and seamless at the start of the palate, with a rich ball of perfumedblack fruit at its heart, resting on a bed of ripe tannin, and a fresh grip. Laden with spice, with a seam of vanillin oak, and carrying all the energy of the vintage, this looks good for such an under-the-radar estate. The finish, an intertwining of black fruits and rich tannin, suggests this is one for the cellar.

Yves Beck : 93-94/100
Pourpre violacé dense. Que de subtilité et de terroir dans le bouquet de Bellegrave 2019. Il se révèle avec finesse en mettant en avant des notes de baies rouges, de cassis et d’épices qui sont relayées par de classiques notes de cèdre et de graphite. En bouche le vin est crémeux et compact. Ses tannins se révèlent lentement et se positionnent comme une force tranquille alors que la structure amène de la fraîcheur et du tempérament. Bonne expression aromatique qui gagne en intensité le long du palais. Finale vive, fruitée et persistante. Pour l’instant Bellegrave affiche sereinement ses ambitions et je pense qu’il a la matière pour faire partie du «Hall of Fame» des grands vins de Bellegrave. 2025-2044

Adrian Van Velsen: 92-94/100
Rouge rubis intense. Wow, un si beau parfum Pauillac, épicé, masculin, profond, montre des herbes, des herbes, des cerises mûres, du cassis, un soupçon de vanille. La bouche est charnue et opulente, très volumineuse, bien équilibrée, avec de l’énergie et de la tension, des coins et des bords, mais ici tout est à sa place, bien structuré et avec beaucoup de pression, le vin traîne dans une finale de longue durée, où le Rendez les tanins visibles à la toute fin. Il peut mûrir, il doit mûrir. Un magnifique Bellegrave!

Falstaff: 91/100
Tiefdunkles Rubingranat, opaker Kern, violette Reflexe, dezenter Ockerrand. Feine schwarze Beerenfrucht, ein Hauch von reifen Pflaumen, zart nach Vanille und Nougat. Saftig, Brombeerkonfit, angenehme Extraktsüße, reife Herzkirschen, bleibt gut haften, ein ausgewogener Speisenbegleiter mit mineralischem Nachhall.

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2018 Vintage

James Suckling: 93-94/100
This is very tannic and structured, showing a solid core of fruit with graphite and dark-berry character. Medium to full body. Flavorful finish.

Markus Del Monego : 90/100
Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Elegant nose with aroma reminiscent ofMaraschino cherries, blackberries, vanilla and discreet hints of cocoa. On the palate wellbalanced with ripe tannins, smooth mouthfeel, ripe fruit and elegant spiciness, very good length.

Wine advocate - Lisa Perrotti-Brown : 89-91/100
The 2018 Bellegrave (Pauillac) is deep garnet-purple colored with a cassis, plums, dried herbs and dried berries-laced nose with spice nuances. Full bodied, it has a good fruit core and is a little chewy, finishing with an herbal lift.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni : 89-91/100
The 2018 Bellegrave is racy, pliant and super-expressive. Succulent red berry, mint, flowers and blood orange are nicely lifted in a medium-bodied Pauillac that captures the natural radiance of the year while retaining a good bit of freshness as well.

Yves Beck : 92-93/100
Pourpre violacé. Bouquet intense et complexe avec un bel équilibre entre les notes d’élevage,le fruit et le terroir. Au palais, le vin est friand, compact et d’une belle expression aromatique.Les tannins sont fins, bien intégrés et assurent les arrières. Finale fruitée et persistante. Un vin de caractère avec un bon potentiel de garde. 2024-2038.

Jacques Dupont - Le Point : 15/20
Réducteur, fraises au vin, serré, dense, épicé, structuré, corsé,belle matière, vin sérieux.

René Gabriel: 18/20
Dichtes, samtenes, dunkles, kräftiges Bouquet, Cassis, schwarze Beeren, Tabak, Edelhölzer, Lakritze. Fein konzentrierter, vielschichtiger, kraftvoller Gaumen mit kräftiger, dunkler Frucht, viel feinem Tannin, klassischer, fein muskulöser Struktur, vielfältiger Aromatik, langer, dichter voller Abgang. 2026 - 2045.

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2016 Vintage

James Suckling: 91-92/100
A layered and flavorful red with currant and sweet-berry character. Medium to full body and silky tannins.

Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate: : 88-90/100
The deep garnet-purple colored 2017 Bellegrave (Pauillac) explodes with flamboyant cassis and blueberry pie notes with touches of cedar chest, unsmoked cigars and charcuterie.Medium-bodied with a very firm frame of chewy tannins and lively acid, it has great length if it is a little grippy at the end.

Chris Kissack - WineDoctor : 88-90/100
From a seldom-seen cru bourgeois estate, the wine of this property presents lightly creamedred plum fruit on the nose, with a little dusting of icing sugar. It feels fresh, pure, bright and charming. The palate shows a gentle substance, with some lightly grippy tannins supporting a layer of red plum and redcurrant fruit. It is fresh, but also lightly bitter and cool, with a finish washed by some slightly bitter tannins.

Christer Byklum - B My Bordeaux : 89-91/100
Ruby. Dark fruits, anise, blueberries, some spices, nuanced nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, juicy, fruity, dark berries, anise, lovely balance, long.

Markus Del Monego : 89/100
Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Quite classic nose with aroma reminiscent of blackcurrants and mild spices, discreet roasting aroma. On the palate juicy character, fine acidity, elegant tannins and good length.

Andre Kunz : 17/20
Tiefes, dichtes, kräftiges Bouquet, Cassis, Zedern, Kohle, Lakritze. Voller, samtener, klassischer Gaumen mit kräftiger Frucht, viel gutem Tannin, dunkler Aromatik, dichter, fein muskulöser Struktur, langer, aromatischer Abgang. Kann noch zulegen. 2025 - 2042

Jean-Marc Quarin: 15.5//88

Yves Beck: 92-93/100
Pourpre violacé. Bouquet de bonne intensité aux notes de menthe, de cerises noires et de mûres. Touche de graphite et de poivre noir. Attaque friande et compacte. Au palais le vin a du corps et une belle expression aromatique. Caractère juteux et rafraîchissant grâce à la vivacité de la structure. Les tannins sont fins, soyeux et assurent bien les arrières tandis que le fruit se révèle également sur la fin de bouche. Finale persistante. Une belle réussite, bravo. 2023–2037

Bernard Burtschy: 91-92/100
Le vin est de bonne facture, pas très concentré, mais harmonieux, charmant, les tannins sont légers, l’ensemble de bonne longueur. Le vin a été élaboré avec 62% cabernet-sauvignon et 38% merlot avec 60% de grand vin. Il titre 13° et il est élevé avec 40% de fût neuf. 3-8 ans.

Bettane + Desseauve: 16/20
Grand caractère. Nez puissamment fruité, tabac, fruits noirs, très terroir, bouche volumineuse et veloutée, avec des tannins harmonieux, de l’allonge, du gras et un bon équilibre en finale.

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2016 Vintage

James Suckling: 92-93/100
Full and dense red with currant,berry and chocolate character. Round and juicy tannins. Savory finish. Pretty young wine. Better than the 2015.

Neal Martin : 87-89/100
The 2016 Bellegrave, here the Pauillac property owned by the Meffre family and not to be confused with the identically named Pomerol estate, has a conservative cigar box-scented bouquet that just needs to develop more personality. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, good balance with a smooth and elegant finish that lingers in the mouth. This is a well-made Pauillac that just needs to find that extra je ne sais quoi.

Panos Kakaviatos - Wine Chronicles : 89-91+/100
Along with a few other cru bourgeois I tried, a lovely Pauillac. The tannins need taming (again the purpose of barrel aging). A slightly medicinal aspect, but then you get noble notes of cassis, red fruit and some black olive. Fine overall: freshness and full body and richness. And a smooth finish!

Christer Byklum - B My Bordeaux : 86-88/100
Ruby. Dark fruits, some spices, blackberries, fruity, vanilla nose, bit woody. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, dark berries, vanilla and spices, good length.

Jean-Marc Quarin : 15.75//89
Le meilleur jamais fait ! Couleur sombre, intense et belle. Nez fruité, mûr et éclatant.Bouche moelleuse, très savoureuse, au corps pulpeux et agréable, de longueur moyenne.

Yves Beck : 92-93/100
Pourpre violacé. Bouquet de bonne intensité bien typé de son terroir. Notes de cèdres et de graphite. A l’aération le fruit se profile bien et révèle des notes de cassis, griottes...

Jacques Dupont - Le Point: 14.5-15/20
Nez épicé, fruits noirs, bouche ample, souple, joli fruit, boisé assez marqué, bonne longueur.

René Gabriel: 17/20
lonKräftiges, tiefes Bouquet, Cassis, schwarze Beeren, Edelhölzer, Tabak, Lakritze, Rauch. Dichter, kräftiger, aromatischer Gaumen mit dunkler Frucht, viel gutem Tannin, dunkler, würziger Aromatik, muskulöser Struktur, langer, aromatischer Abgang. Kann noch zulegen.

Guide Hachette des Vins: 1 étoile
Souple et bien équilibré, ce 2016 se développe avec ampleur, en déclinant volontiers ses arômes de fruits noirs et de vanille, nuancés d’une touche balsamique, héritage d’un élevage d’un an en barriques de chêne français.

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2015

James Suckling: 90-91/100
A pretty core of blackberry and black cherry character. Full body, velvety tannins and a long and flavors.

Decanter : 88/100
Good fleshy cassis fruit with a firm backbone. Good mid-term drinking. Drink 2019-28.

Markus del Monego : 90/100
Dark purple red with violet hue and black core. Expressive nose with distinct fruit character, ripe dark berries
and hints of mild spices. On the palate well structured.

René Gabriel : 17/20
Tiefes Purpur, satt in der Mitte, Granatschimmer am Rand. Fein röstiges Bouquet mit dezent rauchigen
Untertönen, reife Brombeeren, schön ausladend. Im Gaumen samtig und bereit jetzt eine gewisse Eleganz
zeigend. Das ist Pauillac-Charme für recht wenig Budget. 2020 – 2037

Bernard Burtschy - Le Figaro : 16/20
Bellegrave possède une jolie matière pleine, une petite sècheresse passagère, mais il sera d’un grand
charme. 3-10 ans

Jacques Dupont - Le Point : 15.5/20
Fruits rouges, bouche tendre, élégante, tendue, épicée, tanins de qualité, frais, long.

Jean-Marc Quarin : 15//87
Vin fruité et plutôt fin au nez. Bouche pleine, juteuse, savoureuse, juste un brin vive dans la persistance.
Longueur normale.

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2014

James Suckling : 93/100
Aromas of blueberries, stones and spices follow through to a full yet compacted palate and silky tannins that are soft and polished. A beautifully crafted red. Try in 2022.

Wine Spectator (James Molesworth) : 89/100
Sleek, delivering iron and sanguine notes that stretch out underneath layers of cherry paste and crushed plum fruit flavors, with the iron edge lingering longest on the focused finish. Not big in scale, but very true to type. Best from 2018 through 2024.

Decanter : 87/100
Good depth of Cabernet fruit – robust length and a good future. Drink 2018-26.

René Gabriel - Weinwisser: 17/20
Sattes Purpur-Granat, dicht in der Mitte, lila Schimmer aussen. Zeigt eine schöne, aromatische Wurze, vielleicht insgesamt etwas mehr floral wie fruchtig. Im Gaumen mit guten Fleischrationen und erstaunlichem Tiefgang, hält lange an. Toll gelungen und - von der Art - her eher klassisch.» Trinkreife: warten (2021 - 2035)

Yves Beck : 92/100
Rouge rubis aux reflets grenats. Bouquet de bonne intensité, fruité et épicé. Agréables notes de framboise, pruneaux et réglisse. Le côté terroir se révèle bien également au travers de graphite et de cèdre. La mise en bouche est fine, compacte. Le corps dévoile de la puissance grâce à une structure vive et des tanins granuleux qui se révèlent très lentement en fin de bouche. Un vin tout en puissance, qu’il faudra savoir attendre. La finale est juvénile mais gagnera en souplesse et en fruit au fil des années. Ce n’est pas un vin pour les impatients. 2020-2040.

Bernard Burtschy (Le Figaro) : 15/20
Un joli vin équilibré axé sur la fraîcheur, bien constitué, harmonieux. 3-8 ans

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2013

Decanter : 16 – 86/100
Good smoky fruit and nicely grippy Pauillac finish. Drink 2017-24.

Falstaff (Peter Moser) : 87-89/100
Dunkles Rubingranat, violette Reflexe, zarter Wasserrand, intensive, floral unterlegte Frucht,
zartes rotbeeriges Konfit, ein Hauch von Orangenzesten. Saftige Pflaumenfrucht, dezente
Süße, frisch strukturiert, etwas Nougat im Abgang, ein unkomplizierter Speisenbegleiter, zart
nach Dörrobst im Finale.

Bettane & Desseauve :
Vin ayant de la structure. Belle allonge. Tanins imposants.

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2012

James Suckling : 88-89/100
Fresh fruit with blueberry and blackberry character. Medium body with integrated tannins and a clean finish. Good integrated acidity.

Decanter : 16 – 86/100
Good depth of cassis fruit, nice spice, depth and good plummy length. Drink 2015-24.

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2011

Wine Spectator : 88-91
Well-focused, with bitter cherry, currant and iron notes running along in unison. The finish is dark but driven. J.M.

Gilbert & Gaillard 2015 : 88/100
Robe profonde, grenat. Nez jeune, qui demande de l’aération, parfums entre végétal mûr, boisé grillé et fruits confiturés. Bouche assez souple, enveloppée d’une matière généreuse. Equilibre des parfums, présence tannique importante. Un pauillac typé.

Guide Hachette des Vins 2015 :
S’il se montre encore un peu rebelle en finale, ce vin possède suffisamment de potentiel pour bien évoluer : une belle mâche tannique, du gras, de la fraîcheur,, un fruit affirmé et un bon boisé toasté, au nez comme en bouche. 2017-2020.

Jean-Marc Quarin : 15 // 86
Couleur sombre, de bonne intensité. Nez fruité. Vin juteux et bien constitué. Savoureux, il s’achève sur un corps et une longueur moyenne et sans angle.

Le Point : 15,5
Fruits noirs, gelée de mûre, bouche tendue, vive, serrée, tanins mordants en finale, vin droit, sérieux, très pauillac. Belle bouteille dans cinq ans.

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2010

Decanter : 15.5
Deep cassis fruit and depth, good medium term Pauillac. Drink 2015-20

James Suckling : 88-89
Pretty velvety tannins, with good fruit and an attractive finish. Full and simple, delicate. 2009 is better.

Jane Anson : 92+

Roger Voss : 89-91

Le Point - J. Dupont : 15.5
Nez épice, bouche bien fruitée, tendue serrée, beaucoup de mâche, une structure tannique bien pauillac, bonne longueur, vin sérieux mais sans dureté.

René Gabriel : 17

Gilbert & Gaillard 2014 : 88/100
Robe sombre, reflets jeunes. Nez race, profond, se livrant lentement sur des notes de fruits rouges et noirs et une touché boisée. En bouche des tannins présents mais polis, une attaque austère, une évolution plus fruitée. Un pauillac à attendre.

Guide Hachette des Vins 2014 : *
Aux commandes, Ludovic et Julien Meffre ont su parfaitement exploiter la matière de leur vendange. Leur vin s'annonce par une robe presque noire. Au bouquet, les arômes intenses du bois (toast) sont bien mariés aux parfums de fruits qui s'affirment en bouche. La structure est riche sans être rustique. La pointe de sévérité en finale s'estompera avec l'âge. Ce vin très bien constitué mérite d'être attendu trois à cinq ans.

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2009

Wine Spectator : 91
This has muscle, offset by sleek acidity, which lets the steeped blackberry and black currant fruit race along nicely, while the smoldering tobacco and roasted fig notes hang in the background. Solid, with iron-tinged grip on the finish. Best from 2013 through 2023. JM - March 2012

Wine Spectator : 92-95
Concentrated, with loads of currant and blackberry that turn to mint on the nose. Full-bodied, with polished and velvety tannins. Beautiful finish with licorice and fruit. Really excellent. J.S.

Wine Enthusiast : 91-93/100

Jane Anson : 92
Another deep colour. Good vanilla new oak nose, but with some freshness also. That has sweet fruit, good well integrated tannins and a nice weight, with a fresh lift at the end.

Tasted : 90
AL – Young nose of leather, dark berries, blackcurrant, a hint of new wood and spices; the palate is fresh and medium to full bodied with inky dark fruit, attractive freshness and polished tannins, good length and purity.

MdM- Dark purple red with violet hue and almost black centre. Nose with discreet fruit and a touch of spiciness. On the palate well balanced with fine tannins and rather good length. #5 / June 2012 – P.12

Decanter : 15,5/20 (***) Avril 2010

J.M. Quarin : 15
Couleur sombre, intense, pourpre. Nez fruité, mûr. Entrée en bouche tendre. Le vin évolue aromatique, savoureux, avec du goût et une bonne consistance. Finale un brin ferme.

Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2013 : 89/100
Robe sombre, reflets jeunes. Nez plaisant dominé par des arômes d’élevage : notes grillées, de graphite, de torréfaction. La bouche est encore sous l’emprise de l’élevage même si l’on perçoit un bon potentiel. Un vin d’avenir à attendre 2 à 3 ans.

René Gabriel : 17/20

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2008

Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2012 : 89/100
Beautiful deep, young red. Appealing nose of ripe red fruits coupled with a smoky touch. On the palate, a robust, well-constituted, distinctive wine. Savoury ripe, liquorice-infused tannins. Drink now or cellar.

La Revue du Vin de France : Vins notés entre 17,5 et 15,5 sur 20
Fruits noirs mûrs avec des notes minérales, toastées et animales. Tanins solides et gras, du fruit, une bonne fraîcheur. Un pauillac bien construit et équilibré. Juin 2009 - P.89

Bordeaux Aujourd’hui n°6 : 18/20
Le fruité est magnifique : mûr, pur, délicat ; les tanins suaves et racés. Un vin qui tiendrait dignement sa place en cru classé ! P.22

Gilbert & Gaillard 2012 : 89/100
Belle robe soutenue d’un rouge jeune. Nez engageant de fruits rouges mûrs associés à une touche fumée. En bouche un vin solide, charpenté, typé. On aime ses tanins mûrs aux parfums de réglisse. A ouvrir dès maintenant ou à laisser vieillir.

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2007

Decanter : 15,5/20 (***)
Dark red. Red fruit nose. Robust and upfront, good length. Nice and solid. 2011-16. Juin 2008 - P.40

Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2011 : 89/100
Belle robe soutenue d’un rouge jeune. Nez de fruits noirs évoluant sur une tonalité boisée et fumée. En bouche une puissance affirmée, des tanins présents. La corpulence du vin et son fruit harmonisent l’ensemble. Un pauillac au style traditionnel.

Guide Hachette des Vins 2011
Ludovic et Julien Meffre sont depuis dix ans à la tête de ce petit domaine enclavé parmi les crus classés. La robe de leur 2007, intense, presque noire, est prometteuse. L’expression aromatique mêle notes animales et épicées, tandis que la structure dense aux tanins serrés laisse apparaître en finale un fond de sévérité. Une bouteille qui a grand besoin de quelques années de garde pour s’harmoniser. P.379

Gaultmillau : 16/20
Le nez s’ouvre gentiment sur des notes de fruits rouges et noirs, avec une pointe de fragrance animale. En bouche c’est un délice : délicat, ample, avec de la puissance et de la douceur. Un vin de velours aux tanins bien fondus.

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2006

DECANTER : 17/20 (****)
Alluring nose of spice, herbs and red berry richness. Complex. Sweet cassis, kelp and sleek, creamy tannins. Density and balance. From 2012. Janvier 2009 - P.71

J.M. Quarin : 14.75-15/20
Rouge sombre, bonne intensité, pourpre. Nez fruité, frais, boisé et finement grillé. L’entrée en bouche de ce vin ainsi que le milieu ressemble au gras que je trouve dans les 2005. Ensuite le vin présente un corps moyen, des tannins enrobés et sans angle. Longueur moyenne aussi. 10/04/2007

Bordeaux Ajourd’hui n°5 : 16/20
Une Pépite. Situé entre Latour, Pichon-Baron et Lynch-Bages, ce cru de 8 hectares, dont les parcelles (8300 pieds/ha ; 25 ans ; 60 % cabernet-sauvignon, 30 % merlot, 7 % cabernet franc) sont enclavés dans ces vignobles tutélaires, est une pépite pour les amateurs. Ludovic et Julien Meffre, la trentaine, également propriétaires de 74 ha à Saint-Julien, sont des “ terroiristes ” convaincus, dans le profil de leur père Jean-Paul, producteur à Beaumes-de-Venise (40 ha), qui a acheté le domaine en 1997 à la barbe de ses prestigieux voisins. “ Pauillac est la terre promise du cabernet-sauvignon où se conjuguent force et élégance! ”; Telle est la conviction profonde des propriétaires. Le jury a bien perçu la magnificence de ce pauillac secret...mais qui le sera de moins en moins.

Un nez très pur et complexe se dévoile. Des arômes toastés viennent élargir la palette. La bouche est profonde, bâtie sur des tannins à la fois denses et veloutés. P.31

Guide Gilbert & Gaillard 2010 : 88/100
Jolie robe très soutenue, reflets jeunes. Nez classique associant fruits noirs et boisé torréfié. La bouche est corpulente, ample mais aussi très fondue. Elle délivre les mêmes arômes nets et plaisants. Un pauillac déjà accessible.

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2005

Winespectator : 88/100

Guide Gilbert et Gaillard : 90/100
Robe intense. Nez toasté, notes de moka sur fond de fruits rouges et noirs. Bouche puissante, structurée, dense. Cette constitution solide affiche aujourd’hui une certaine fermeté. On peut parier qu’il se fondra élégamment d’ici quelques années.

Guide Gault Millau 2009 : 15/20
A ne pas confondre avec le château Bellegrave à Pomerol. Situé au sud de la commune de Pauillac, Bellegrave s’étend sur 8 hectares. Il est racheté en 1997 par Jean-Paul Meffre qui gère déjà le Château du Glana et Château Lalande. Ses fils Ludovic et Julien assurent la relève et produisent toujours des vins complexes, d’une belle concentration sans surextraction. Bellegrave 2005 garde de sa superbe, long en bouche, à la trame veloutée mais avec du relief, dans un style de fruit mûr et très justement concentré. P 225

Guide Hachette 2009
Avec son excellent terroir de graves garonnaises et son encépagement typé Pauillac (40 % de merlot pour 60 % de cabernet-sauvignon), ce cru a tout pour réussir. Il se montre d’ailleurs parfaitement à la hauteur avec ce 2005 grenat, dont le bouquet développe des notes puissantes de torréfaction et d’épices sur un léger fond de cuiret de baies noires. Le palais ample et charnu est tapissé de fins tanins qui trouvent en finale des accents fruités. Dans trois ou quatre ans, ce vin accompagnera une côte de boeuf aux cèpes. P 394

J.M Quarin
Les Carnets de dégustation
: 15,5/20
Superbe couleur, une des plus sombres jamais vues sur ce cru. Nez très fruité, intense. De la profondeur. Notes résineuses dans le boisé. En bouche, voici le vin le plus pulpeux jamais bu sur ce cru. Délicatement charnu, dense dans sa structure, il évolue néanmoins sur un toucher raffiné, une tannicité très élaborée sans aucune granulation finale. Bonne longueur aromatique. Un succès. Cette seconde dégustation confirme qu’il s’agit du vin le meilleur fait sur cette propriété. On pourra le goûter jeune et avant 2020-2030. Mars 2007

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2004

Guide Gilbert et Gaillard : 89/100
Robe profonde, violine. Le nez évoque la mûre, associé à des notes grillées. En bouche, belle structure, aux tanins relativement fins, un fruité net et persistant jusqu’en finale. A apprécier sur un gigot d’agneau.

Guide Hachette des Vins 2008 *
Commandée par une bâtisse entourée d’un parc à l’anglaise, ce château donne plus l’impression d’une résidence d’agrément que d’une exploitation viticole. Son vin se charge de démontrer le contraire par sa robe sombre et son bouquet aux élégantes notes d’épices et de cuir. Très pauillac, sa structure tannique suggère un petit séjour en cave qui permettra à cette bouteille de s’affirmer complètement. P.396

Bordeaux Aujourd’hui n°5 : 16/20
La complexité de ce vin transparaît dès le premier nez : des notes fumées, minérales mais aussi fruitées s’expriment. La bouche est d’une grande concentration. L’équilibre et la longueur sont également au rendez-vous. P.31

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Press Château
Bellegrave
2003

Gilbert et Gaillard : 87/100
Robe concentrée aux reflets pourpres. Nez d’une grande richesse, de fruits noirs. En bouche, une jolie concentration. Un vin ramassé, possédant de la sève, du fruit et un boisé de qualité. Un Pauillac traditionnel, qui devrait faire une belle bouteille.

Guide Hachette 2007
Bien construit avec des tanins qui demandent encore à s’arrondir, son vin sait tirer profit d’une agréable expression aromatique mêlant les fruits aux épices.

Press Château
Bellegrave
2002

TAST n°3 : 16/20
Une révélation : admirable nez de cèdre, d’une implacable précision, raffiné et énergique en bouche, avec un tanin d’un naturel exemplaire. Il y a la distinction et le cachet d’un excellent cru classé. Toutes mes félicitations au propriétaire. 18/04/2005 - P18

Revue des Vins de France n°472
Bouche de grande intensité avec un volume et des tanins de belle maturité. Bon potentiel. P.80

Guide Hachette 2006 *
Situé sur la route des châteaux qui longe l’estuaire, ce cru a conservé un beau parc. Encore un peu fermé mais déjà assez agréable par son bouquet aux notes de fruits rouges (cerise) et de fumée, son 2002 semble bien armé pour affronter l’avenir. Homogène, charnu, long et soutenu par un bois intégré, il promet de gagner en complexité d’ici trois à quatre ans. P.386

Press Château
Bellegrave
2001

IN VINO VERITAS N°105
Si au premier nez, le boisé s’impose dans les tons moka, à l’aération, un fruit rouge épicé réussit à faire son chemin. L’attaque en bouche se fait ronde et juteuse avec des tanins murs assez gras qui présentent déjà pas mal de fondu. On goûte de la cerise, du cassis et du grillé. Il s’agit d’un Pauillac d’une facture moderne, homogène, plus savoureux que profond, prêt à boire dès maintenant. Mai 2004 - P.27

Guide Gilbert et Gaillard des Vins
Robe sombre aux reflets pourpres, bel aspect. Nez où domine un boisé de grande qualité, évoquant la torréfaction, la fève de cacao, avec en arrière-plan quelques notes de fruits noirs. En bouche, un vin ramassé auquel le bois lui confère une certaine puissance, la matière et le fruit étant un peu en retrait. P.150

Guide Hachette 2005 *
Ce vin est d’une belle tenue. Celle-ci s’annonce dès l’examen visuel : d’un grenat profond, la robe est traversée de reflets violines attestant sa jeunesse. Toast, épices et fruits rouges, le bouquet prépare à la découverte d’une attaque fort plaisante. Porté par des tanins soyeux, le palais fait preuve d’un bel équilibre. Il s’accorde avec la finale pour dire que l’on est en présence d’un vrai vin de garde, à attendre au moins trois ans. P.395

Press Château
Bellegrave
2000

Vins Magazine, Gilbert & Gaillard
Robe intense, pourpre violacé. Nez concentré, marqué par des notes boisées-torréfiées sur un fond de fruits noirs mûrs. Un vin puissant, structuré, où les tanins s’expriment aujourd’hui avec une certaine fermeté. Ce vin marqué par le bois, présente assurément un bon potentiel. A besoin de se fondre.

Revue des Vins de France N°464
Le nez est intense, avec des aromes de fruits noirs, d’épices et de boisé réglissé ; la bouche attaque de façon chaleureuse, avec de la rondeur, des tanins serrés et finit par une bonne acidité qui laisse envisager une bonne évolution. P.122

Guide Hachette 2004 **
Le manque d’originalité du nom de ce cru ne le sert sans doute pas beaucoup pour se maintenir au milieu des grands domaines de Pauillac. La qualité de sa production est son meilleur atout. Ce vin témoigne des potentialités de son sol, de la prédominance des cabernets sauvignons (72 %) et des soins apportés par le nouveau propriétaire depuis 1997. Bien que sombre et pleine de larmes, sa robe n’a rien de triste. Pour le connaisseur, c’est un signe encourageant, tout comme la complexité du bouquet aux senteurs de fumée, de fruits murs et d’épices. Rondelet dans son approche au palet, étoffé, corpulent et riche d’une belle matière grasse et charnue, avec de fins tanins bien enrobés, ce 2000 affrontera un cuissot de chevreuil, escorté de légumes confits dès qu’il sortira de cave, dans quelques années. P.384

Press Château
Bellegrave
1999

Vins Magazine : 83/100
Robe concentrée aux reflets rubis. Nez plaisant de cassis et de prunelle mûre associés à des notes boisées et fumées personnalisées. En bouche, un pauillac aimable, souple et parfumé avec toutefois en finale, une charpente plus affirmée et des tanins boisés plus présents.

Guide Hachette des Vins 2003
Propriétaires du cru depuis 1997, les Meffre montrent qu’ils nourrissent de grandes ambitions à son égard avec ce très beau 99. Drapé dans une livrée rubis, celui-ci se présente avec un bouquet heureusement marqué par les arômes de fruits (cerise et cassis) et de fumé. Sa complexité se retrouve au palais, sans l’empêcher de se distinguer par une grande homogénéité. Déjà très harmonieuse par son côté charnu et fondu, cette bouteille possède la structure nécessaire pour bien évoluer dans les années à venir.