A subtle, refined 2009 with complex aromas and flavors of currant, smoke, mineral and lead pencil. Full body with ultra-refined tannins and a long, long finish. An integrated, beautiful Beychevelle. Hard not to drink now but will be much better in 2017: a wine for long-term aging.

A blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 47% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc, the 2008 Beychevelle is medium to deep garnet-brick in color. It storms out with pronounced notes of preserved plums, blackcurrant pastilles, and mincemeat pie, followed by nuances of chocolate box, star anise, and new leather. The medium-bodied palate delivers a sturdy backbone of chewy tannins and soft acidity to support the well-sustained, spicy mid-palate, finishing with a peppery lift.

The 2008 Beychevelle was undeservedly relegated to the "off-vintages" during this tasting, but it is certainly not that. This has plenty of blackberry, cedar, ash and pencil lead scents on the nose. It has real Saint-Julien typicité. The palate is medium-bodied with solid tannins. The texture feels a bit gritty, but there is freshness and classicism from start to finish, with just the right amount of dryness on the finish. Very fine. Tasted at the Beychevelle vertical at the property. -- Neal Martin

Beautifully soft and burnished aromatics waft out of the glass from the first moment. The tannins have melted into the fruits and it is maybe a little more evolved than some 2008 vintages. However this is a lovely wine, with walnut edges and touches of rusticity. It is frank, direct and utterly charming, with clear persistency and St-Julien balance. There is generally a relatively high proportion of Merlot in Château Beychevelle wines, although this tends to be a little lower in recent vintages.

Showing some bricking around the edges, you can already enjoy some of the secondary aromas of cedar, mushroom and wet forest scents. The wine is tannic, bright and focused on its, crisp, spicy red fruits. It needs at least a few more years to round out and add additional complexities. 91 Points Read more at:https://www.thewinecellarinsider.com/wine-tasting-note/?vintage=2008&wine=Chateau%20Beychevelle