Château Julien – Bordeaux – 2020

Description

PRODUCER:
The immaculate Château Julien covers 21 hectares of vines, including four hectares of Bordeaux rouge, close to Lussac St Emilion. The château has received significant investment and renovation in the vineyard and cellars by the current owner, who purchased the property from the family who had previously owned the Château for three generations. They cultivate the vines sustainably and have been certified HVE since 2021. They work closely alongside innovative winemaker Ludovic Labarrere, who vinifies using egg-shaped fermenters and produces elegantly styled Bordeaux wines.

VINTAGE:
Late winter and early spring were unusually dry and mild which prompted early budburst, however a cold snap in April and May saw late spring frosts which affected flowering. The early part of the summer was exceptionally hot, with vines experiencing the effects of drought. Some heavy rains at the end of July provided much-needed relief for the vines, and the temperatures cooled down in August. The cooler weather continued into September with light rain, which helped the vines to retain balanced acidity. The wines show sophisticated tannins and aromatic elegance.

VINEYARD:
The vines are sustainably cultivated, with grass sown between the vine rows in order to stabilise the soil and decompress it, sending the vines’ roots deep into the soil. The vineyard is situated on silty and sandy soils, which impart soft tannins, roundness and delicacy to the wine. The yields are carefully controlled to concentrate the flavours in the berries.

WINEMAKING:
The grapes were meticulously sorted and carefully destemmed, ensuring the grapes were not damaged and the berries remained whole. They were slowly fermented in concrete tanks so all components from the skins were extracted to the desired level. Fermentation lasted for between two and three weeks. The blend was aged in concrete tanks for eight months, retaining the purity of fruit and the essence of the Bordeaux terroir.

TASTING NOTE:
An elegant wine, full of exuberant blackcurrant aromas. On the palate, the fruit is supported by a supple texture, beautiful balance and a refreshing finish.

GRAPES:
Cabernet Franc 5%, Cabernet Sauvignon 5%, Merlot 90%.