Château d'Armailhac, a Cinquième Cru Classé from the esteemed Pauillac appellation, holds a unique position within the Baron Philippe de Rothschild portfolio, sharing a terroir adjacent to its illustrious sibling, Château Mouton Rothschild. The 1996 vintage represents a benchmark year for the Left Bank, particularly lauded for its Cabernet Sauvignon, which thrived in the favourable growing conditions.
This expression of d'Armailhac from 1996 showcases the classic Pauillac characteristics: a robust structure, defined by its gravelly soils and high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon. The winemaking regime, typical of a Grand Cru Classé, involves meticulous vineyard management and judicious oak ageing, designed to enhance complexity and ensure longevity. This wine is a testament to the vintage's capacity for producing wines of significant ageing potential and profound typicity.
Tasting notes
The 1996 Château d'Armailhac presents a complex aromatic profile, revealing classic notes of cassis, cedar, and graphite, interwoven with evolving tertiary nuances of tobacco leaf, forest floor, and a hint of leather. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with a firm, yet integrated tannic structure and vibrant acidity, indicative of its excellent vintage and Pauillac provenance. The finish is long and persistent, echoing the dark fruit and savoury characteristics, demonstrating significant maturity while retaining a remarkable freshness.