Château Simard Grand Cru 2014 is a red Bordeaux wine from the Saint-Émilion appellation, classified as a Grand Cru. Saint-Émilion is renowned for producing wines of elegance and depth, and this wine exemplifies those qualities. The 2014 vintage is typically a blend of Merlot, which dominates the region's reds, with smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc and sometimes Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2014 vintage was marked by a relatively mild growing season, leading to wines that are both accessible in youth and capable of aging gracefully.
Appearance:
The wine has a deep ruby-red color, indicative of its rich, full-bodied character. The color suggests a wine that is concentrated and youthful, with vibrant hues that indicate both freshness and the potential for aging.
Nose:
On the nose, the Château Simard Grand Cru 2014 is complex and aromatic, offering a bouquet of ripe dark fruits such as blackberry, black plum, and blackcurrant. The wine’s dominant Merlot component contributes to a rich, plush fruit profile, with a soft, round character. There are also subtle herbal and earthy notes, such as tobacco, cedar, and a hint of violet from the Cabernet Franc. The wine has a touch of oak, imparting delicate notes of vanilla, toast, and spice that add depth and complexity to the aromatic profile.
Palate:
On the palate, the Château Simard Grand Cru 2014 is medium to full-bodied with a smooth, velvety texture. The fruit flavors are deep and concentrated, with blackberry, cherry, and plum leading the way. The wine’s tannins are present but well-integrated, giving the wine a firm structure without being overly harsh. The acidity is balanced, providing freshness and lifting the fruit flavors. The influence of oak is evident but subtle, contributing to the complexity without overwhelming the fruit. Hints of spices, earthiness, and herbs complement the fruit profile, giving the wine a harmonious and layered mouthfeel.
Finish:
The finish is long and smooth, with lingering flavors of dark fruit, oak, and a delicate touch of spice. The tannins soften as the wine lingers on the palate, leaving a clean and refined aftertaste.
Pairing:
The Château Simard Grand Cru 2014 is a versatile wine that pairs well with a wide range of hearty dishes. It complements grilled meats such as steak, lamb, and roast beef, as well as game meats like venison. It also pairs beautifully with rich, savory dishes like braised short ribs, mushroom risotto, or aged cheeses, such as Comté, Brie, or Gruyère.
Overall Impression:
The Château Simard Grand Cru 2014 is a well-balanced, elegant, and flavorful Bordeaux wine. With its ripe fruit, smooth tannins, and subtle oak influence, it offers a satisfying drinking experience that is both approachable and complex. While it can be enjoyed now, it also has the potential to age gracefully for several more years, developing greater depth and nuance with time. This wine is a wonderful expression of Saint-Émilion, showcasing the region’s ability to produce wines of elegance, structure, and complexity.
