CHATEAU VALROSE CUVEE ALIENOR - 2002

This St. Estephe Bordeaux has vines very close to Cos d'Estournel. The wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

TASTING NOTES:

Medium to dark red color with black fruit, smoke and toasted oak on the nose and palate. Blackberry, black licorice, and black currant dominate this smooth well-structured yet heavy red. Dry with thick tannins and some spice on the finish.

SCORE & RECOMMENDATION:

90 PTS

I purchased this bottle on sale for $15 and it delivered. This is a very good Bordeaux that is drinking exceptionally well for its age. Right now it shows more power than elegance. It is a bit tight when first opened but it has a wonderful toasty oak nose that gently yields to black fruit. Hard to justify reaching above $20 for this wine and I've seen it retail for as much as $25, but a very solid effort.