Elle De La Marzelle 2019 is a Bordeaux red wine from the Saint-Émilion region, a prestigious appellation known for producing wines with elegance, structure, and depth. Château La Marzelle is a Grand Cru Classé estate in Saint-Émilion, and Elle de La Marzelle is a second wine produced by the estate. This wine reflects the same quality standards as its flagship wine but is crafted to be more approachable in its youth, showcasing the estate's terroir and winemaking expertise.
The 2019 vintage benefits from the excellent growing conditions in Bordeaux that year, which produced wines with ripe fruit, balance, and freshness.
Appearance:
Elle De La Marzelle 2019 has a deep ruby-red color, with bright purple hues, suggesting a young and vibrant wine. The color indicates both the intensity of the fruit and the wine’s potential for aging.
Nose:
On the nose, this wine is fragrant and inviting, offering a bouquet of ripe red fruits, including cherry, raspberry, and blackberry, typical of Merlot, the primary grape variety used in the blend. There are also subtle notes of plum and a hint of blackcurrant, adding to the fruit complexity. As it opens up, delicate nuances of spices like cinnamon, clove, and a touch of vanilla emerge, likely from oak aging. The wine also reveals traces of herbs and a hint of graphite, reflecting the terroir of Saint-Émilion and the influence of the Cabernet Franc or Cabernet Sauvignon that may be part of the blend.
Palate:
On the palate, Elle De La Marzelle 2019 is medium-bodied with a smooth, velvety texture. The wine is well-balanced, with the fruit flavors of red berries and dark fruits coming forward, providing a fresh and vibrant profile. The tannins are soft and integrated, creating a smooth mouthfeel, while the wine’s acidity adds a lively lift and freshness. There is a gentle oak influence that brings out spicy and vanilla notes, giving the wine complexity and depth. The overall feel is elegant, with the wine being approachable yet refined.
Finish:
The finish is long and clean, with lingering flavors of dark fruit and spice. The tannins soften, leaving a subtle yet satisfying aftertaste of vanilla and red berry flavors, making for an elegant and balanced finish.
Pairing:
Elle De La Marzelle 2019 pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It is well-suited to grilled meats such as lamb, steak, and roast chicken, as well as charcuterie and game meats like duck or venison. It also complements rich pasta dishes, such as pasta with tomato-based sauces, or mushroom risotto. For cheese pairings, aged cheeses like Comté or Brie work particularly well.
Overall Impression:
Elle De La Marzelle 2019 is a charming, elegant, and approachable wine that showcases the best characteristics of Saint-Émilion. With its ripe fruit, smooth tannins, and integrated oak, it offers a perfect balance of freshness and complexity. This wine is designed to be enjoyed in its youth but still offers enough depth and structure for a few years of aging. It's an excellent introduction to the world of Saint-Émilion, offering a refined and enjoyable experience.
