# Château Ducru-Beaucaillou (2021)

- **Producer:** Château Ducru-Beaucaillou
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
- **Region:** Bordeaux, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €235
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, cedar, mint, violet, blackcurrant, pencil lead, blackberry, smoke, vanilla, chocolate, cloves, forest floor, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Château Ducru-Beaucaillou is a Second Growth Bordeaux from Saint-Julien, owned by the Borie family since 1941. Its name originates from the 'beautiful stones' (beau caillou) found in its gravelly vineyard soils. The 2021 vintage is distinguished by its unusually high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon, contributing to a classic Saint-Julien profile. The estate's winemaking philosophy emphasizes meticulous attention to detail. The château is a notable Victorian-style building situated above the cellars.

## Interesting facts

- The estate's name, Ducru-Beaucaillou, translates to 'beautiful stones,' referencing its unique gravel terroir.
- The château itself is a striking Victorian-style castle built directly above the wine cellars.
- The 2021 vintage saw a 40% reduction in production volume compared to the previous year.
- Harvest for the 2021 vintage took place from late September to early October.

## Food pairing

The wine's firm tannins and structured body are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats, breaking down proteins and cleansing the palate. The wine's inherent complexity and subtle oak notes can echo or contrast with savory herbs and earthy flavors found in many classic dishes.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Château Ducru-Beaucaillou involves fermentation in wooden tronconique tanks, followed by 18 months of aging in 100% new French oak barrels. The wine undergoes fining with egg whites. Sustainable farming practices are utilized in the vineyards. The 2021 harvest was conducted from late September to early October, with low yields.