Chateau Patris Grand Cru 1985

It is a Saint-Emilion Grand Cru — that is to say it is produced in the Jurisdiction of Saint-Emilion and the wine of this vintage has pbutted two expert tastings to be permitted to use the Grand Cru Appellation. (Most Appellations insist only on one tasting for the agrément, Saint-Emilion is more demanding.) The Chateau is owned by Michel Querre — the Querres are a well known family in Saint-Emilion. The vineyard is 12.25 hectares — quite a decent size for Saint-Emilion — now planted to 88% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc or Bouchet, and 4% Cabernet Sauvignon. Average vine age is 40. It now has 18 months in new oak but this is a relatively new development and I doubt if the 1985 had seen much more than 20% of new oak and it probably had rather more Cabernet because the Merlot has increased here over the years. The soil is sand on sandy clay. It is normally a good soft but aromatic wine with good red fruit notes and can even be a little flowery. 1985 was a good Merlot year and a good keeping year so, if it has been well kept, you should have a very enjoyable bottle.

Cheers