"This is a 15-hectare vineyard situated on rolling hills between Carbonnieux and Smith-Haut-Lafitte in Martillac. Density is 7,000 to 10,000 vines/ha and the varietal mix includes 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon whose average age is 17 years. High percentage of Merlot reflects the soil which is superficially gravelly atop a rich mix of clay and limestone. Mechanically tilled, cover-cropped every other row, debudded, desuckered, deleafed, crop-thinned, and hand-harvested from Oct. 5th to 13th."
"The grapes are fermented in stainless with a 25-day maceration then destined for 18 months in 30% new, and 30% one-wine old barrels from Rémond, Saury, Taransaud, and Berthomieu. Tentative blend is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet. Production is about 4,160 cases. Stéphane Derenoncourt and his team consult." -Importer
PESSAC-LEOGNAN AOC:
"Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are equal partners in the blends of this AOC, with a particularly wonderful result: a cherry red robe, often containing hints of very ripe red berries and violet, with a smoky bouquet of grilled almonds and resin. These wines are fleshy and balanced, with structured tannins, and a long and pleasant finish."
"Pessac-Léognan is likely the place where wine growing began in Bordeaux, 2000 years ago. Already in the Roman era, the aptness of this terroir for growing wonderful grapes had been recognized. Indeed, the Pessac-Léognan AOC is named after two emblematic communes where all of the Crus Classés of the Graves region are situated."
"The Pessac-LĂ©ognan soil is composed of a particularly thick layer of gravel and stone, carried by the river. Underneath lies sand, hardpan and clay in variable proportions. The vines are planted in vast clearings, surrounded by pine trees that protect them from humid western winds." -www.Bordeaux.com
