The most exclusive Bordeaux event in the Midwest!
Tuesday, Jan. 23rd • 6-8pm
The Drake Hotel - 140 E. Walton Place, Chicago
2021 Vintage Conditions
2021 was a return to ‘cool classicism’ in Bordeaux, perhaps more reminiscent of the 1980s and 1990s than more recent vintages of the last decade. Some have claimed it’s a vintage suitable for the more ‘traditional Bordeaux palates’ and will certainly be a contrast to the power of the ‘18, ‘19, and ‘20 trio.
This extremely heterogeneous vintage began with a warm, rainy spring and early summer, which led to mildew. A cool summer slowed sugar accumulation in the berries and was followed by hail, rain and finally some rot. Amidst viticultural challenges that tested even the most experienced winemakers, wines were produced of vastly different quality levels.
The Wines
White wines fared very well thanks to the freshness of the Sauvignon Blanc. The cooler vintage led to energy, acidity and vibrancy in the white wines that will make these quite desirable. For Sauternes, the frost led to a severe reduction in what were already low yields leading to very little sweet wine being made. To be blunt, it was almost wiped out, but the small amount that was produced is superb.
Red wines as stated, were more mixed. Generally speaking, Cabernet and Petit Verdot handled the conditions better than Merlot. Some have been described as excellent, especially those from estates that practiced strict quality control, with balance, crisp red fruits, and refreshing acidity. Others are leaner and more austere due to difficult weather conditions that caused delayed growth, uneven fruit set, and disease pressure. Vineyards that were low-lying and/or away from the river fared the worst as severe frost damage was likely.
Overall, 2021 is a fascinating vintage to taste through. It’s a heterogeneous expression of Bordeaux where resources, technology, winemaking, and a bit of luck all played a role. We invite you to taste the 2021 vintage with us and form your own conclusions of this ‘cool classicism’ style.
Discover the appellations
By purchasing admission or entering the premises of the UGC 2021 Bordeaux Tasting presented by Binny's Beverage Depot, you assume all risk of violating the state law if you operate a motor vehicle while under the influence. As a holder of a UGC 2021 Bordeaux Tasting ticket, you voluntarily assume all risks and dangers of personal injury and all other hazards arising from or related to the UGC 2021 Bordeaux Tasting, whether occurring prior to, during or after said event. You grant permission to Binny's Beverage Depot to use your name or image in any photographs, television or radio broadcast. For security purposes, you hereby consent to the reasonable inspection of your person and property before entering and while exiting the event.
UGC 2021 Bordeaux Tasting vendors have authority to refuse service to intoxicated persons.
Drink responsibly.