Vintage
The year began with mild winter weather, which was followed by a spring with alternating spells of rain and quite high temperatures for the season, which brought an early vine vegetation growth. A hot, dry summer then set in, causing vine shooting to slow down. The water reserves built up from the winter rain enabled the vines to cope with the water stress and avoid any suffering. A fine Indian summer then followed with hot days and cool nights ensuring that the vineyard remained in excellent health. Late September we were able to pick the grapes at optimal ripeness in excellent conditions.
Growing methods
Pruning down to 8 buds for the old vines and to 6 buds for the young vines. Thinning, leaf-stripping. Grapes picked and sorted by hand.
Vinification
Temperature controlled wooden vats. Malolactic fermentation in barrels.
Harvest
24/09 and 26/09.
Aging
70% new oak et 30% one year old barrels for 18 months.
Surface area
13.5 hectares
Average age of the vines
42 years
Blend
50% merlot, 50% cabernet franc.
Yields
35 hl/ha
Tasting notes
This blend of different plots displays a dark, dense, deep cardinal-red colour.
The aromatics are precise and very intense, and the fruit is nicely ripe with notes of black fruit compote coming through. Clearly the result of a sumptuous vintage, vanilla aromas mingle with smoky notes, while a delicate empyreumatic touch evokes the smell of roasted coffee beans.
This wine, produced from the great terroirs of Saint-Emilion, has a crisp entry on the palate, followed by an imposing, opulent body containing a sensation of sweetness.
The mid-palate is rich and generous.
The degree of ripeness is linked to the vintage, and this brings sweetness and smoothness without masking the wine’s freshness of flavour. The finish is long, and a slight sensation of warmth and opulence follows. With high quality length of flavour, this is a wine with unquestionable ageing potential.
Commentary by David Biraud
World's Best Sommelier Competition 2016 - Best Craftsman of France Sommelier 2004
