When I see a Saint-Emilion Grand Cru at Costco for $20 it automatically jumps into my cart. I'm glad this one did. Obviously seeing "Figeac" on the label makes this bottle even more attractive, and the fact that these grapes are grown near the premier Chateau Figeac, and not far from the super premier Chateau Cheval Blanc, means this is one wine that demanded proper exploration.
Light bouquet, this wine is medium to full in body; subtle flavors of red and black fruit, followed by hints of chocolate and tobacco; finishes dry and rather quickly. This is not a powerhouse Bordeaux. It is rather sly and reserved at first, but after more air it began to open up and become even more enjoyable to drink. To me, the term "elegant" applies, and I know that can be a little vague. But think tuxedo and proper compared to jeans and gritty.
Overall, not a bad buy for $20. Be sure to decant it for a bit. We also just reviewed a Haut-Medoc Bordeaux that Michael really enjoyed for $13, if you're looking for a less expensive Bordeaux. A bit of a different wine, but also worth a look perhaps.
CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 89 Points
Costco item number: 643071
Purchased at Costco in: Atlanta, GA
max says
I've seen another interesting Saint-Émilion wine, Chapelle de Labrie, looks like a second wine, but found nearly no info about,
more known is Château Croix de Labrie 100% Merlot. Thinking if I should spend $47 to try.
admin says
This one sounds interesting. It looks like the Chapelle de Labrie is in fact a second label from that estate which is located not far from the famed Chateau Pavie. That would peak my interest. Not a lot online because they changed the name from Petite Labrie to Chapelle de Labrie. I found more info here: http://www.thewinecellarinsider.com/bordeaux-wine-producer-profiles/bordeaux/st-emilion/croix-de-labrie/
If you try it, please let us know what you think
max says
here is what I see.
http://www.chateau-croix-de-labrie.fr/en/#vin
Label says 90% Merlot + 10% Cabernet Sauvignon
medium ruby-red with a hint of brown, somewhat red-brick rim,
looks like consistent with young Merlot.
Fairly long legs.
Strait from the bottle:
On a noise violet and red fruits, maybe some red berries/cherry, much more vibrant and pronounced red fruits on a swirl.
Good acidity, plums, nothing much of that sweet California taste of Merlot.
Fairly long finish that changes from fruits to some savory mushroom/leather like and later to tart tannins, should go very well with food.
after an hour in decanter more savory notes appeared, noise of leather and vanilla.
taste of plum, leather, some hint of sweetness.
I'm not wine expert, my wine gradation: "crap", "won't buy" or "will buy again", this falls into the third category.
Was really concerned if $50 well spent assuming almost no information, but it is very well worth it, will buy another one to open several years later.