Nose
A very fresh nose dominated by citrus aromas and hints of mandarin rind.
Palate
The palate is voluptuous, accented with bittersweet hints of orange and kumquat. 2011 Château de Cérons is a fine illustration of an excellent vintage for our appellation. The wines are well-balanced, complex and wonderfully fresh.
Growing Conditions
"September was marvellous, with temperatures approaching heatwave levels on some days, resulting in grapes
of exceptional quality. The noble rot and dry weather combined to yield magnificent concentrations of botrytis. The
fruit is punchy yet well-balanced with a remarkable concentration of aromas. A great vintage of undeniable quality.
Geology: Mixed gravel soil with sand and small stones resting upon a
subsoil of ocean limestone.
Vineyard management: Sustainable viticulture
Surface area: 1 hectare
Planting density: 6 600 vine / ha
Harvest
Handpicking only
Bottling
At château
Winemaking
Winemaking: Harvesting in several passes to bring in botrytised grapes
when the "noble rot" has reached optimal maturity, achieving the
aromatic balance and freshness characteristic of Cérons.
Very slow pressing at successive thresholds, extracting the full aromatic
potential of the skins (candied fruit, dried fig, dried apricot, etc.)
Cold settling before transferral to barrels for natural fermentation.
Aging
Ageing: in barrels for 2 to 3 years
