2000 Château Sociando-Mallet- France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Haut-Médoc (4/20/2020)
Decanted 6 hrs. Getting right to the case, yes this had a clear green streak running through it; yet it also had a lovely depth of sweetness that I found it a very intriguing wine. Furthermore, it just felt right to me, the underbrush, cedar (maybe I need to drink more Chinon?) the green pepper, cassis all paired perfectly with a spring lamb stew. I’m surprised to see a lot of notes on CT that have this at maturity or even on the decline, I just didn’t see it last night, this has many good years to go. (93 pts.)
If you like this vintage of Sociando, you definitely need to drink more Chinon! This is one of the most Chinon-like vintages of Sociando that I have ever had. Surprisingly, it comes from a so-called solar vintage. I like it too, very much, but will admit, some bottles show very green.
I’ve had this twice recently. One bottle exhibited strong bell pepper flavors, so much that I found it almost undrinkable. The other bottle did not show these traits at all and was quite pleasant. So, I’m confused.
I’ve noted before this vintage of Sociando has variability. I’ve gone through about a case. If you do not like pyrazine notes in your wine, do not buy this vintage of Sociando. It can range from very pungent green bell pepper to just a subtle hint. I’ve even had a bottle that was too much green for my yak palate.
I had one bottle of this that I didn’t think was very green, and I can’t stomach Chinon. It was a good wine but won’t be buying again based on this thread.
I have zero bottles and can’t remember the last time I had one. Who are a few good producers / bottles to start with? I have a pretty broad palate and can appreciate most styles of wine in general.
I disagree it’s generally a flaw but do think one could make the case here on this vintage of Sociando. Now on the flipside, then you must concur that late picking, ABV of 15%+ and toasted oak, etc., are also flaws and not a style, right?
