 |
In 2000 we decided to produce a special reserve wine for the first time. Our objective was not only to fully recognize the potential for certain parcels of fruit but also to produce a different more concentrated, complex and tannic style of wine. We have named this special wine Héritage.
- Vineyard -The vines from which the grapes are selected are planted on a plateau of river gravel and sand deposits which has a sub soil of limestone, clay and iron pan. This plateau called 'Le Seuil' is over looking the Garonne River and enjoys all day sun. It is considered some of the best terroir in the Graves appellation. The vineyards of Château du Seuil surround the village of Cérons. Vines vary in age from 15 years to 25 years and are planted at a concentration of 8,000 plants per hectare. Yields are kept low at around 40 hectolitres/hectare by pruning and the canopy is managed to ensure good levels of ventilation around the grape zone and moderate sun exposure with deleafing.
- Winemaking - Grapes are selected for this wine in advance of the harvest. Additionally, post harvest, we employ a system of triage allowing for further overall quality control. Primary fermentation is undertaken in specially modified rotating 400 litre new oak barrels after a period of 5-6 days of cold maceration and skin contact, the must wine is then allowed to macerate on the skins post fermentation to aid further extraction, tasting occurs each day at this stage of the process to ensure the tannins extracted are those which are desirable and not too angular.
- The wine remains in these special French barrels to undergo Malolactic fermentation; the finished wine was then aged in a further set of new French oak barrels for 18-20 months. The wine is crafted with 200% new French oak reflecting the depth, concentration and power of the fruit. The use of two fresh oak barrels adds considerable complexity to the oak flavours and tannins that are nevertheless well integrated into wine due in part to the early exposure to oak. The deep purple colour also reflects the concentrated nature of the wine. The wine is unfiltered when bottled and is probably best put down for a further 3-4 years.
|
