2002 Belair (St Emilion)
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Tasting notes
Still Dubois Challon era. Smudgy pale ruby. Muddy nose. Lots of acidity. Not quite enough anchoring this wine in the middle. (JR)
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Paler than most. Light and leafy. Underripe and a bit austere. This seems to be losing fruit. (JR)
Premier Grand Cru Classé Scented and readable and terroir driven, with some energy. Not bad – though certainly not thrilling. Bit of cough medicine. (JR)
The 2002's light to medium ruby hue (which resembles a washed-out Pinot Noir) is accompanied by a bouquet dominated by sweet and sour cherries as well as some surprisingly aggressive vanillin from new oak barrels. While fragilely constructed and somewhat superficial with an austere finish, it reveals the classic red fruit character and minerality that Belair exhibits under Delbeck’s regime. It can be drunk now and over the next 12-15 years.
About the producer
Château Bélair-Monange sits at the highest point of Saint-Émilion neighbouring Château Ausone. The steep slope vineyards offers some of the most beautiful vistas overlooking the historic town of Saint-Émilion.