Chateau du Domaine de l’Eglise – Pomerol – 2017

PRODUCER NOTE:
Domaine de l’Eglise is the oldest estate on Pomerol’s famous plateau, first mentioned in the Vieux Papiers du Libournaisin 1589. Originally the property of the church, the estate was secularised in the 18th century. Domaine de l’Eglise lies next to Pomerol’s church a stones throw away from Château Petrus. In 1973 the château was acquired by the Castéja family. The round, fruity Domaine de l’Eglise wine has been among the most sought after in Pomerol for many years.

VINTAGE:
Overall winter was slightly warmer than average, although January was extremely cold and dry. A warm spring encouraged early budburst, with mild conditions continuing in April. However, late April saw temperatures suddenly drop and extreme frost occurred, resulting in the lowest yield across Bordeaux in 25 years. May brought sunshine and warmer temperatures, resulting in successful flowering and good weather continued throughout June. Summer saw some heat spikes, with rainfall at the end providing relief for the vines. The 2017 wines tend to be well balanced with a good fruit-forward character.

VINEYARD:
The vines are trained according to the Double and single Guyot training method and are grown in gravel over sandy-clay soils.

WINEMAKING:
Fermentation took place with selected yeasts in temperature-controlled vats, with the total maceration time lasting for four weeks. Maturation took place in French oak barriques for a period of 18 months, of which 60% of the barriques were new.

TASTING NOTE:
Aromas of cherry, blackberry, plum and chocolate lead to a full-bodied palate with a plush structure, concentrated sweet fruit, silky tannins and an elegant chocolate note on the finish.

GRAPE:
Merlot 97%, Cabernet Franc 3%.

COUNTRY:
France

REGION:
Bordeaux

SUB-REGION:
Pomerol