Palate

Today, both Alter Ego and Château Palmer express a purity and aromatic clarity rarely seen in an abundant vintage. These wines don’t lie; they are remarkably true to the terroir of Château Palmer.

Growing Conditions

In 2019, the Merlots enjoyed dry and sunny weather conditions up to the very end, giving rise to wines full of power, exuberance and flesh. The Cabernets, harvested after the scattered rains of late September, would develop a certain coolness and reserve, to produce wines of rare distinction. It is this uncommon marriage that has placed our two wines, Château Palmer and Alter Ego, in the rarefied circle of exceptional vintages.

While January was marked by a few days of extreme cold, the rest of the winter proved relatively mild. Throughout the season rainfall was moderate but sufficient to partially replenish essential reserves in our soils. The vines’ bud burst began almost a week ahead of schedule, but would progress thereafter in a smooth and even manner. The spring that followed was cool and rainy, requiring a high degree of precision in our management of the vineyard. Despite the capricious weather, flowering unfolded without difficulties, fuelling hopes of a bountiful harvest. Then, at the end of June, the weather conditions would change radically. A lasting period of hot and dry weather set in. Two heat waves between the 26th and 27th of June and the 22nd and 25th of July were fortunately endured without consequence. The limited summer rainfall – 50 mm between July and August – fostered the accumulation of polyphenols in the berries. The grapes underwent their colour change in excellent conditions and by mid-August the prospect of a fine vintage was clear.

Harvest

We began harvesting the Merlot on September 19th amidst weather conditions close to those of summer. The berries were
concentrated, aromatic and loaded with sugar. The harvest continued and we entered the autumn under fine, steady rainfall which lowered the potential alcohol of the Cabernet Sauvignon. By October 11th the harvest was complete.

Winemaking

In the vat room, the Merlot grapes would shine in their exuberance. The Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot would exhibit remarkable finesse.