2014 Simard
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Tasting notes
The 2014 Simard has a crisp, classic, chlorophyll-tinged bouquet with pretty dark berry fruit. There is a hint of cola that emerges with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannin, a little compact at the moment with tobacco lacing the red berry fruit on the slightly truncated finish. As I said during primeur: a little rustic, but that is part of the charm.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The 2014 Simard is pretty, bright and nuanced. Sweet red cherry, raspberry and floral notes are nicely pushed forward in this delicate, gracious, mid-weight Saint-Émilion. I would prefer to drink the 2014 sooner rather than later, while the fruit remains juicy and vibrant. Initially I thought the 2014 would firm up in bottle, but it has turned out to be a relatively soft, open-knit wine. The blend is 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc.
80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. 30% in barriques. Mid crimson. Sweet, heady and gamey with a streak of sucrose. Pretty strict tannins on the palate. More animal than any other St-Émilion I have tasted. (JR)
The 2014 Simard is open, spiced and quite supple, with lovely purity of fruit and a soft, mid-weight personality that suggests it is best enjoyed on the young side. Today, the Simard shows a slight sheen of sweet new oak, which is surprising given the wine is being aged in 70% cement and 30% neutral barrels. I imagine the 2014 will firm up over time.
About the producer
Owned by the Vauthier family, who also own Ch. Ausone, this large Saint-Emilion estate is the entry-point to the Vauthier range. It is an excellent introduction to the family’s wines and great value, offering an earlier-drinking style.