Château d'Issan 2011: A Classic Vintage of Structure and Elegance

(ai photo)

Deep ruby with a tight rim. Bold, ripe black fruits (plum, blackcurrant) and spicy notes of black and white pepper. Full-bodied yet elegant, showing complexity and refinement. The structured palate mirrors the nose, with more savoury, earthy, liquorice, and smoky nuances. Balanced and harmonious, with 14.5% ABV. Regum mensis arisque decorum—Issan is truly worthy of kings' tables and gods' altars.

From my primeur experience on 2011, this vintage is mostly classic and structured, shaped by a relatively cool growing season that favoured freshness and balance. Château d'Issan 2011 should continue to develop gracefully for another 5–10 years. Ideal with simple, nice food such as Peking Duck, Roast Goose, or a piece of plain, non-marinated Sirloin.

Critical reception is strong, with Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (92 points) praising its dense ruby colour, abundant cassis, kirsch, liquorice, and plush opulence, anticipating maturity through 2028. To me, this wine will age well beyond. Decanter (95 points) highlights high aromatics, vibrant black fruits, freshness, and a mouthwatering saline finish, calling it approachable earlier than usual.

Wine-Searcher lists recent global prices for Château d'Issan 2011 at HK$510-HK$710 per bottle. My price is HK$440@, and it has high neck levels.

For enquiries, contact me on WhatsApp at 66236746 or by email at cf.lau@dunndunn.hk.