Nose
The nose, initially discreet, expands with airing to reveal notes of humus, toasted nuts and black cherry.
Palate
The attack is elegant, displaying well-rounded tannins which give the wine good structure and power on notes of candied fruit, cherry stone and cedarwood. The flavours, harmoniously integrated into an attractive freshness, give excellent balance to a remarkably classic finish.
Growing Conditions
After a mild and wet start to the year, warm weather and sunshine in March caused rapid growth of the vine, which was 15 days ahead of the average. Budbreak began on 16 March for Merlot and Cabernet Franc and on 24 March for Cabernet Sauvignon. April was generally wet and cool except at the end of the month.
Flowering began in early May, 8-10 days earlier than the average, and was completed in good conditions. Mid-flowering was noted on 2 June for all varieties. The summer was hot and sunny, with little rainfall. Mid-veraison was noted between 7 and 12 August according to the variety. Unfortunately, heavy rain persisted between 7 and 20 of September, though the harvest took place in rather pleasant conditions and the grapes were in perfect health.
Despite the wet weather, the crop showed no adverse physical effects from the amount of rainfall. The berries were intact, with an average volume and skins very rich in anthocyans. The flesh had high sugar levels and brown pips, showing that the fruit was fully ripe.
Harvest
19 September to 1 October
Appearance
The wine is a glittering, dark red with lovely amber highlights.
