Description
The Château Trotte Vieille 1975 is a classic wine from the Saint-Émilion appellation in Bordeaux, France, and is classified as a Premier Grand Cru Classé (B). The 1975 vintage is renowned for its structure and longevity, especially in Bordeaux, where wines from this year are characterized by firm tannins, freshness, and great aging potential. Château Trotte Vieille 1975 is a wonderful example of the vintage, offering the charm of a mature Right Bank wine with the added complexity that comes with decades of aging.
Wine Overview
The 1975 Château Trotte Vieille is crafted from a blend typical of the estate:
Cabernet Franc (dominant): Providing structure, floral aromas, and herbal complexity.
Merlot: Adding softness, richness, and red fruit flavors.
Cabernet Sauvignon: Contributing tannins, structure, and dark fruit depth.
Vintage Characteristics
The 1975 growing season in Bordeaux was marked by a warm summer and dry conditions during the harvest, resulting in grapes with excellent ripeness and concentration. The wines from this vintage are known for their high tannin content, which has allowed them to age gracefully over decades. Right Bank wines like Trotte Vieille often show a more approachable elegance as they mature.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Garnet with noticeable bricking at the rim, reflecting its advanced age.
Aroma: A complex bouquet of dried cherries, plums, and redcurrants, interwoven with earthy notes of leather, tobacco, and forest floor. Subtle hints of truffle, cedar, and spices add depth.
Palate: Medium-bodied with smooth, integrated tannins and a vibrant acidity that keeps the wine lively. Flavors of dried red fruits, figs, and cranberries are complemented by savory notes of herbs, graphite, and a touch of minerality from Saint-Émilion’s limestone terroir.
Finish: Long and elegant, with lingering dried fruit, earthy nuances, and a delicate spice note.
Drinking Window
As of 2025, the Château Trotte Vieille 1975 is fully mature and should be consumed soon. While it has likely reached the peak of its evolution, well-stored bottles can still offer a delightful and complex experience.
Food Pairing
This mature wine pairs beautifully with:
Roast lamb or veal with rosemary and garlic.
Duck breast with a cherry or plum sauce.
Wild mushroom dishes, such as risotto or a creamy mushroom tart.
Aged cheeses like Comté, Gruyère, or Parmesan.
Serving Recommendations
Decanting: Carefully decant for about 30 minutes to remove sediment and allow the wine to breathe. Handle gently, as older wines can be fragile.
Serving Temperature: Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to fully appreciate its mature aromas and flavors.
Conclusion
The Château Trotte Vieille 1975 is a remarkable wine that showcases the structure and longevity of the vintage, paired with the elegance and complexity of Saint-Émilion. It is a treasure for those who enjoy the nuanced characteristics of aged Bordeaux.
Condition
faded and bin soiled labels