Description
In 1989, Jean-Luc Thunevin and Murielle Andraud acquired a small plot of 0.6 hectares in the valley of Saint-Emilion between Pavie-Macquin and La Clotte. In 1991, they produced their first vintage bottled by themselves. Since then, they have acquired other plots and properties, in Saint-Christophe-Des-Bardes, Saint Sulpice de Faleyrens and Saint-Etienne de Lisse. While the first critics called it “garage wine”, Chateau Valandraud, although still unclassified, is nevertheless considered by almost all wine professionals, including Robert Parker, as one of the very first wines of Bordeaux. Chateau Valandraud was promoted to 1er Grand Cru Classe de Saint Emilion in 2012. Member of the Union of Grands Crus of Bordeaux since 2017. The 2009 Valandraud is a blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc matured in 100% new oak for 22 months. The irrepressible de facto head of the garagiste movement, Jean-Luc Thunevin, along with partner, Murielle Andraud, continue to achieve marvellous things at this estate, always pushing the envelope of quality. Deep garnet coloured, the 2009 Valandraud is truly strutting its stuff right now with a bold, flamboyant nose of Black Forest cake, molten liquorice, blackberry preserves and baked plums plus touches of kirsch, candied violets, star anise, unsmoked cigars, incense and a compelling waft of smoked meats. Full-bodied, the palate is a pedal-to-the-metal, fruit-n-spice blockbuster with a full-on sexy texture of beautifully plush, rounded tannins and tons of freshness to lift the very long, very perfumed finish. – Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, 97 points The Finer Details Style – Red Wine Varietal – Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Country – France Region – Pauillac, Bordeaux Vintage – 2009 Bottle Size – 750ml ABV – 15%