Chateau Trotte Vielle, 1988 Red Wine
St Emilion Premiere Grand cru Classe
New arrivals - please allow 7 days for delivery
Bottle size: 75cl
Price:
$100.54 USD
Description
The Château Trotte Vieille 1988 is a classic wine from the Saint-Émilion appellation in Bordeaux, France. Known for its Premier Grand Cru Classé (B) status, Trotte Vieille consistently delivers wines that are elegant, complex, and reflective of its limestone terroir. The 1988 vintage is recognized as a structured and traditional Bordeaux year, producing wines with freshness, balance, and excellent aging potential.
Wine Overview
The 1988 Château Trotte Vieille is likely a blend typical of the estate:
Cabernet Franc (dominant): Contributing structure, floral notes, and herbal nuances.
Merlot: Adding softness, richness, and red fruit character.
Cabernet Sauvignon: Providing tannins, structure, and depth of flavor.
Vintage Characteristics
The 1988 vintage in Bordeaux was characterized by a cool and wet early growing season, followed by a dry and sunny September that allowed grapes to ripen slowly and fully. The wines of 1988 are known for their firm tannins, high acidity, and classic Bordeaux profile, making them excellent candidates for long-term aging.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep garnet with slight bricking at the edges, reflecting its maturity.
Aroma: A complex bouquet of red and black fruits, such as cherries, plums, and blackberries, intertwined with earthy tones of leather, cedar, and tobacco. Subtle tertiary notes of dried herbs, truffles, and forest floor add depth.
Palate: Medium-bodied with firm but well-integrated tannins and lively acidity. The flavor profile includes ripe red fruits, cassis, and blackcurrants, complemented by savory elements like graphite, spices, and a hint of minerality from the limestone terroir.
Finish: Long and elegant, with lingering notes of dried fruit, earth, and subtle spice.
Drinking Window
As of 2025, the Château Trotte Vieille 1988 is likely at or near its peak maturity, offering a beautiful balance of fruit, structure, and tertiary flavors. Properly stored bottles may continue to evolve slightly for another few years but are best enjoyed now.
Food Pairing
The elegance and complexity of the 1988 Trotte Vieille pair wonderfully with:
Roast lamb or beef with herbs and garlic.
Game meats, such as venison or duck breast with a fruit reduction.
Mushroom-based dishes, such as wild mushroom risotto or truffle-infused pasta.
Aged cheeses like Comté, Gruyère, or Parmesan.
Serving Recommendations
Decanting: Decant gently for about 30 minutes to remove sediment and allow the wine to open up. Handle carefully, as older wines are delicate.
Serving Temperature: Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to fully enjoy its nuanced aromas and flavors.
Conclusion
The Château Trotte Vieille 1988 is a refined and mature Bordeaux, offering a classic expression of Saint-Émilion's terroir. Its combination of structure, elegance, and complexity makes it a delightful choice for lovers of aged wines.
Condition
good levels and label