Chateau Cissac, Haut Medoc Cru Bourgeois 2020, [ 375ml ] Bordeaux, France

Cissac is among the most celebrated addresses in the appellation of Haut-Médoc.

For five generations the Vialard family have been making outstanding, age-worthy clarets in the Haut-Médoc. Recognised for its consistent quality, Château Cissac is undoubtedly “the pillar of the bourgeoisie” (Hugh Johnson).
Crafting exceptional wines, the Vialard’s also offer some of the best value in Bordeaux. Like the wines from next-door regions Saint-Estèphe and Pauillac, this cuvée has intense, lively red fruits, with a structure that promises good ageing potential, all at a sensible price. Constantly outperforming its classification, this claret is complex with good depth of fruit, thanks to a top vintage. It’s a classic blend of Cabernet, Merlot and spicy Petit Verdot, infused with oak, that’ll improve with time, if you can resist!

The nose is fruity and offers power and intensity. There are notes of blackcurrant, blackberry and, to a lesser extent, fresh cherry, combined with hints of violet, lily, Sichuan pepper and a discreet touch of camphor. The palate is fresh, mineral, balanced and offers fresh acidity and a fine tension. On the palate this wine expresses notes of fresh blackberry, fresh wild blackcurrant and more slightly violet combined with hints of liquorice, wild red berries and fine varietal, liquorice and toasted notes." 91/100, VertdeVin

Critic James Suckling described the 2019 as "clean, crisp and flavourful", with a "pretty nose". Maturation in part new oak barrels for 20 months lends notes of vanilla to the freshness of the fruit. 91 points

A deep garnet colour with aromas of savoury, herbaceous red and black fruit with hints of tobacco and spice on the nose. Good cassis fruit intensity, well-managed tannins and a balanced, lean finish.

The predominance of Cabernet Sauvignon over the Merlot shows this wine is made in the classic Medoc style and a mix of wooden vats followed by new and old oak barrels are used.

Allow 1hr to aerate.