Grand Bateau Les Voiles Médoc Rouge 2019

Winery Background and History

Grand Bateau is a collaborative project between Bernard Magrez, a prominent Bordeaux wine magnate, and Château Beychevelle, a distinguished Fourth Growth estate in the 1855 classification. The label, featuring a majestic galley ship, pays homage to the estate’s historical ties to the Duc d’Épernon, Admiral of France in the 16th century. The name “Beychevelle” is derived from “Baisse-Vaille,” meaning “lower sails,” a command given as ships passed the Admiral’s estate. Grand Bateau aims to bring the elegance and tradition of Bordeaux’s Left Bank wines to a broader audience, offering wines that reflect the region’s heritage and quality.

Producer and Winemaker

The Grand Bateau Les Voiles Médoc Rouge 2019 is produced under the guidance of Bernard Magrez, who owns four Grands Crus Classés in Bordeaux and over 40 vineyards worldwide. The winemaking team collaborates closely with Château Beychevelle’s technical staff, ensuring that the wine benefits from the château’s expertise and high standards. This partnership allows for meticulous attention to detail in both vineyard management and winemaking practices, resulting in a wine that embodies the finesse and structure characteristic of Médoc appellation wines.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes for this wine are sourced from vineyards in the Médoc appellation, located in the Left Bank of Bordeaux. The area benefits from a temperate maritime climate, with the nearby Gironde estuary moderating temperatures and reducing the risk of frost. The vineyards are planted on well-drained gravel soils, which are ideal for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. These conditions contribute to the development of grapes with concentrated flavors and balanced acidity, essential for producing structured and age-worthy wines.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The winemaking process involves traditional Bordeaux techniques, including careful sorting of grapes, fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, and maceration to extract color and tannins. Following fermentation, the wine is aged in French oak barrels, a portion of which are new, for approximately 12 months. This aging process imparts subtle oak nuances and enhances the wine’s complexity and structure. The careful balance between fruit expression and oak influence results in a harmonious and refined final product.

Tasting Notes

The Grand Bateau Les Voiles Médoc Rouge 2019 exhibits a deep ruby color with garnet reflections. On the nose, it offers aromas of ripe black fruits, such as blackberry and blackcurrant, complemented by notes of cedar, tobacco, and subtle spice. The palate is well-structured, with firm yet supple tannins and a balanced acidity that provides freshness. Flavors of dark cherry, plum, and hints of vanilla lead to a long, elegant finish, showcasing the wine’s complexity and aging potential.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs excellently with red meats, such as grilled lamb chops or beef tenderloin, as well as game dishes like venison stew. Its structure and depth complement hearty dishes, including mushroom risotto and aged cheeses like Comté or Gruyère. For a classic Bordeaux pairing, serve it alongside duck confit or cassoulet. The wine’s balanced acidity and tannic backbone make it versatile enough to accompany a variety of rich, savory dishes.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the nuances of this Médoc wine, serve it at a temperature of 16–18°C (60–64°F). Decanting the wine for 30 to 60 minutes before serving is recommended to allow it to open up and reveal its aromatic complexity. Use Bordeaux-style glasses to concentrate the aromas and enhance the tasting experience. This wine is suitable for both immediate enjoyment and special occasions, offering a refined expression of Left Bank Bordeaux.

Storage and Aging Potential

The Grand Bateau Les Voiles Médoc Rouge 2019 is crafted for both immediate enjoyment and medium-term aging. When stored in optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent humidity—the wine can develop additional complexity over 5 to 8 years. Over time, the tannins will soften, and tertiary aromas of leather, earth, and dried fruit may emerge, enhancing the wine’s depth and character. Regular monitoring is advised to enjoy the wine at its peak maturity.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Merlot: 80%

• Cabernet Sauvignon: 20%

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5%