Chateau Cissac – Cru Bourgeois, Haut-Medoc – 2018

PRODUCER NOTE:
In 1895, Jacques Mondon, a lawyer in Pauillac, acquired several vineyards in the parish of Cissac-Medoc. He combined these different vineyards under the name of Château Cissac. In 1940 Louis Vialard inherited the property from his grandparents Mondon and he set about the task of restoring the vineyards and the outbuildings as well as the family home. Louis who is largely responsible for the excellent reputation of the Chateau died in 2009. He is succeeded by his daughter Danielle and grandaughter Marie. ” The château is of a particular architectural style, ‘Chartreuse’ of the 18th century and is probably on the site of a Roman Villa.

VINEYARD:
The vines of Château Cissac are situated on a plateau with a soil composed of gravel deposits from the Garonne river from the Bunz-Mindel period, over chalk. It is located at an altitude of 27.5 metres above sea level, equivalent to the highest points of the neighbouring appellations, Saint Estèphe and Pauillac. Integrated pest management takes place throughout the vineyard, along with leaf thinning mechanically and manually in part of the vineyard, tillage of the soil and the planting of grass cover between the vines.

WINEMAKING:
Fermentation took place in both stainless steel and wooden vats, which brought out the best in each parcel of fruit, imparting subtle oak complexity. Exceptionally low fermentation temperatures resulted in good extraction while preserving the vibrant fruit and natural sweetness from the ripe berries. The wine was aged for 16 to 18 months in oak casks, of which 30% was new French oak.

TASTING NOTE:
Aromas of ripe blackberries are complemented by a hint of spice from the Petit Verdot. The ripe, firm tannins are balanced by freshness on the palate, through to a long, elegant finish.

GRAPE:
Cabernet Sauvignon 68%, Merlot 27%, Petit Verdot 5%.

COUNTRY:
France

REGION:
Bordeaux

SUB-REGION:
Haut-Médoc Cru Bourgeois

AWARDS:
• 93 Points, Wine Enthusiast, 2020
• 91 Points, Decanter, 2022
• 92/93 Points, James Suckling, 2022