Château Tour des Termes 2021
A classic Saint-Estèphe Cru Bourgeois Supérieur offering cassis, blackberry, cedar, graphite, and refined Left Bank structure. Firmly rooted in traditional Bordeaux styling, it combines Cabernet-led precision with the freshness and elegance that define the 2021 vintage.
Château Tour des Termes 2021 is a highly regarded Cru Bourgeois Supérieur from the northern Médoc commune of Saint-Estèphe, one of Bordeaux’s most distinctive appellations. Situated close to the Gironde Estuary, Saint-Estèphe is renowned for producing structured, age-worthy wines with greater power and tannic backbone than many neighbouring appellations.
The estate itself has a history dating back several centuries and has become one of the most consistent performers within the Cru Bourgeois category. Château Tour des Termes has built its reputation on producing wines that faithfully express the character of Saint-Estèphe while remaining approachable and excellent value compared with the region’s classified growths.
Blackcurrant, blackberry, dark cherry, and plum are layered with cedar, graphite, tobacco leaf, pencil shavings, cocoa, and subtle spice. The palate combines fresh dark fruit with mineral tension and fine tannic grip, leading to a long and savoury finish.
An excellent example of traditional Left Bank Bordeaux - serious enough for collectors and enthusiasts, yet accessible enough to enjoy in its youth with proper decanting
The vineyard is planted predominantly to Cabernet Sauvignon, supported by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The gravel and clay soils characteristic of Saint-Estèphe contribute both structure and freshness, giving the wines their signature combination of dark fruit, mineral tension, and longevity.
The 2021 Bordeaux vintage was cooler and more traditional in style than the warmer vintages that preceded it. While less concentrated than 2018, 2019, or 2020, many wines from the vintage are praised for their balance, freshness, moderate alcohol levels, and classical proportions. In Saint-Estèphe particularly, the appellation’s naturally structured terroir performed very well, producing wines with clarity, precision, and strong ageing potential.
Compared with richer modern Bordeaux styles, Château Tour des Termes 2021 leans towards elegance and terroir expression rather than sheer power. The oak remains supportive rather than dominant, allowing the Cabernet Sauvignon character and Saint-Estèphe identity to remain at the forefront.
Château Tour des Termes 2021 is a dry, medium- to full-bodied Bordeaux with dark cassis fruit, fresh acidity, and firm but refined tannic structure. The cooler vintage gives the wine a more classical profile, emphasising precision, freshness, and balance rather than concentration alone.
Unlike richer and more opulent recent Bordeaux vintages, the 2021 focuses on elegance and drinkability while retaining the structure expected from Saint-Estèphe. The Cabernet Sauvignon provides backbone and graphite character, while Merlot contributes texture and approachability.
In simple terms: a classic old-school Bordeaux — structured, fresh, and elegant, with dark fruit, cedar, and graphite complexity rather than overt richness.
- Appearance: Deep ruby-purple with youthful concentration.
- Nose: Cassis, blackberry, cedar, graphite, tobacco, and subtle spice.
- Palate: Fresh dark berry fruit supported by mineral structure and refined tannins.
- Texture: Medium- to full-bodied with firm but polished structure.
- Finish: Long, savoury, fresh, and classically Médoc in character.
- Roast Lamb – A classic Saint-Estèphe pairing.
- Grilled Ribeye Steak – The structure handles richer cuts of beef beautifully.
- Beef Wellington – Excellent with refined meat dishes and savoury sauces.
- Venison – The wine’s freshness and tannins complement game exceptionally well.
- Aged Hard Cheeses – Particularly strong with Comté, Gruyère, or mature Cheddar.
- Serve at 16–18°C.
- Decant for approximately 1 hour while young.
- Use a large Bordeaux glass.
- Drink now with decanting or cellar for 10–15 years.
5 The Market Place
Derrylin
Enniskillen BT92 9AN
United Kingdom