Ducru Beaucaillou 1953

The 1953 Ducru-Beaucaillou has a show-stopping bouquet. Even against the 1959 and 1961, this comes out on top with its ethereal scents of red cherries, aniseed, cedar and rose petals. It is so typical of a 1953 - graceful and yet with beguiling intensity. The palate is beautifully balanced with finely chiselled tannins. The acidity is perfectly judged, harmonious and poised, tapering ever so slightly towards the finish though it remains precise and pure. A fabulous 1953 that should offer another decade of drinking pleasure. Tasted at the Ducru Beaucaillou vertical at the château.

Medium brick with a touch of brown, the nose of the 1953 Ducru-Beaucaillou immediately sets your head spinning with a myriad of black currant pastilles, preserved plums, raspberry pie and sultana cake notes followed by nuances of sandalwood, rose hip tea, camphor and cinnamon toast plus suggestions of candied violets, bergamot, dried cherries and peppered salami. Medium-bodied, the palate exudes poise and grace with tons of perfumed layers emerging in the mouth and fantastic freshness, supported by beautiful silky tannins, finishing long and fragrant. What a beauty and so amazingly cerebral! If I could type a wolf whistle (and were inclined to partake in such behavior), I would.