Château Aux Graves de la Laurence - Réserve Traditionnelle (2019)

Year: 2019

Grape variety: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc

Production: 12,000 bottles

Origin: AOC Bordeaux Supérieur, Saint-Loubès, France

Vineyard: Small family vineyard (2.24 hectares) on a gravelly hilltop with a clayey subsoil, located between Bordeaux and Libourne. The vineyards are traditionally farmed, with manual harvesting, defoliation, and thinning, similar to the practices of Grands Crus.

Soils: Gravel on clay – mineral, well-drained and heat-retaining, ideal for Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

Orientation: Not specified

Climate: Temperate Atlantic climate with sufficient sunshine and rainfall, which led to a balanced ripening of the grapes.

Vinification: Traditional maceration in stainless steel tanks with temperature-controlled fermentation. Subsequent aging in French oak barrels to enhance complexity and structure.

Maturation: 12 months in French oak

Alcohol content: 13% vol.

Tasting Note: Bright garnet red with purple highlights. Expressive aromas of red fruits on the nose, accompanied by notes of old oak and floral overtones. Full-bodied and rich on the palate, with well-integrated tannins, spicy development, and a harmonious, traditional character.

Food recommendation: Ideal with beef, game dishes or mature cheese.

This cuvée was awarded the Gold Medal at the 2023 Concours National des Vignerons Indépendants and received a 1-star rating in the 2023 Hachette des Vins Guide for its balance and aging potential.