Chateau Cruzeau, St Emilion Grand Cru

Producer Note

Château Cruzeau is not only architecturally impressive, but it has an equally impressive winemaking history. The castle was built in the 16th century and attests to the presence of vines having been planted around it in 1785. It became the property of the Luquot family in 1907 and has subsequently been managed by the family and handed down through the generations. The Luquot family has invested in the vineyard and the cellar with the aim of expressing the authentic quality of their unique soils. The Château is now in the hands of the fourth generation who continues to invest and produces a wine which is truly expressive of this historic Grand Cru terroir.

Vineyard

The vineyard is located in the heart of the Saint Emilion Grand Cru appellation and covers four and a half hectares. The vines have an average age of 40 years and are grown in a sandy alluvium soil, which produces a slightly lighter style of wine. The vineyard is situated at the convergence of two rivers, which creates a unique microclimate and the viticulture is carefully managed accordingly. The harvest is undertaken manually each vintage.

Winemaking

The grapes were carefully sorted upon arrival at the cellar. Traditional vinification took place in concrete tanks under temperature controlled conditions. Maceration lasted for 20 days, extracting the desired level of flavour, aromas and fine tannins to impart structure to the resulting wine. Maturation took place in French oak barriques, of which 20% were new, lasting for approximately 16 months. The wine was fined with egg white, prior to being bottled at the Château.

Tasting Note

Château Cruzeau is a Grand Cru Saint Emilion of great finesse and character, showing ripe dark berried fruits complemented by cedar, spice, savoury notes and subtle hints of vanilla. The ripe black fruits are underpinned by a hint of liquorice. Smooth on the palate, the wine is harmoniously balanced with velvety tannins and has a long, elegant finish.

Serving Suggestion

Grilled red meats, a Sunday roast with all the trimmings, warming stews or fine cheese.

Grape

Merlot 83%, Cabernet Franc 17%