Reviews
-Vinous -
-Jeff Leve, The Wine Cellar Insider -
-Robert Parker's Wine Advocate -
Technical Details
- 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc
- François Mitjavile
- France
- Bordeaux
- Right Bank
- Saint-Émilion
- Estate 5.7-hectare vineyard on a steep, south-facing amphitheater-like slope along the edge of the limestone plateau
- Organic and Biodynamic Practics
- 100% new French oak
- Fermentation in temperature-controlled concrete vats
- 18 to 24 months in 100% new French oak
- 14.5%
Château Tertre Rôteboeuf Saint-Émilion Grand Cru 2008
Organic and Biodynamic Practics
36% OFF RETAIL!
François Mitjavile is one of Saint-Émilion’s most singular and fascinating figures: a philosopher-vigneron who farms 5.7 hectares on the warm, south-facing ampitheatre of the Côtes at Saint-Laurent des Combes without recourse to herbicides, pesticides, or external consultants, harvesting riper than almost anyone in the appellation and producing wines of extraordinary concentration and aromatic opulence that have drawn a devoted cult following since the 1980s. No second wine is produced. The name translates to “the hillock where the ox turns around,” referring to the sharp turn that oxen historically made at the crest of this south-facing slope. The 2008 vintage at Tertre Rôteboeuf, which François has tasted many times over the years, has shown fabulous aromas of wild cherries and cocoa powder, seamless texture, stunning balance, great complexity, and a sophisticated touch according to multiple observers over the past decade. Vinous awarded 95, James Lawther 95, and Wine Advocate 94 to 96. Now over 17 years from harvest, this is a wine in a magnificent drinking window, with the characteristic kirsch, exotic dark fruit, chocolate, and brooding aromatic complexity of Mitjavile’s finest work. Incredibly priced for one of Saint-Émilion’s most storied cult estates. Very limited.