Nose

A concentrated, intense nose of ripe blackcurrant and plum, sweet spice and violets. There is a lifted elegance here which is very appealing.

Palate

Today, the 2017 vintage at Château Palmer is precise, without excess. The wines exhibit the elegant balance of our most classic vintages. Their velvety tannins and aromatic depth are promises of splendid ageing potential.

The palate is full-bodied and concentrated, but is so fresh and mineral with juicy blackberry and bramble fruit, lots of sweet spice and herb notes. It’s complex and beguiling, with a lovely creamy texture and supple, elegant tannins. The finish is extremely long and fresh showing wonderful poise.

Growing Conditions

In the Médoc, it’s often said that “the great terroirs overlook the water”. In 2017, it saved them, thanks to the shielding powers of the Gironde estuary. With a significant lack of rainfall and a mild February and March, we’d expected the vines to awaken early from their winter dormancy. Starting late March and into the first half of April, the buds began opening amidst optimal growing conditions. Then, during the nights of 27th and 28th April, the Bordeaux region was struck by a wave of frost. Thankfully, the river would protect the majority of Château Palmer’s vineyards. Finally, late May brought the fine weather which would provide ideal conditions for flowering, and the promise of an excellent harvest. The spring remained dry until the month of June. As summer began, it brought several rainy periods which prolonged the vegetative growth of the vines. The veraison took place on schedule in mid-August.

Harvest

The rains of September speeded the maturation of the skins and harvest started early on 20th September. By the 29th, the harvest was over.

Winemaking

From the moment vinification began, it became apparent that the conditions of the vintage, coupled by the respectful vineyard management methods we’d used to safeguard the terroir, would allow us to enjoy a great clarity of expression from our plots.

Appearance

Inky black/purple colour.