Ratings
WE 94 · DCAMW 89 · UGC 88+
Identity
| Producer | Gonzague Lurton / Villars-Merlaut family |
| Year | 2017 |
| Vol | 0.75 |
| Classification | Fifth Growth |
| Grapes | 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc |
| Color | Red |
| Sweetness | Dry |
Tasting
| Color Desc | Bright ruby red color |
| Aroma | Fruity and fragrant nose with aromas of cherries, black currant, violet, rose, black fruits, spice, and elegant minerality |
| Palate | Dense, powerful, rich, fresh and juicy with fine tannins, balanced acidity, mineral and spicy notes including white pepper, eucalyptus, and licorice |
| Finish | Supple and round finish with well-integrated freshness and mouthwatering grip, lasting with smooth tannins and good length |
| Food Pairing | roast lamb, beef steak, duck breast, hard cheeses, mushroom dishes |
| Serving Temp | 16-18°C |
| Aging Potential | Drink window 2024 to 2038, good aging potential up to 15 years |
Profile
Acidity (1-5)
AVERAGE
Body (1-5)
AVERAGE
Aroma (1-5)
HIGHER THAN AVERAGE
Astringency (1-5)
AVERAGE
Minerality (1-5)
LOWER THAN AVERAGE
Enology
| Organic | Yes |
| Biodynamic | Yes |
| ABV % | 13.5 |
| Aging Process | Aged 14-18 months in 40% new French oak barrels, 20% aged in amphorae, remainder in concrete vats |
| Fermentation | Fermented in 32 temperature-controlled vats: 16 stainless steel tanks and 16 cement vats, sizes 47 to 170 hectoliters |
Terroir
| Soil | Clay-limestone soils around the castle, rare in Pauillac, providing saline tension and mineral structure |
| Harvest Type | manual |
| Harvest Desc | Manual harvesting with attention to plot selection |
Interesting facts
| The estate is adjacent to Château Latour and Château Pichon Baron, with a history dating back to the 18th century Liberal family. Certified organic since 2019 and biodynamic since 2021. |
Logistics
| Cork | natural cork |