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The vines are planted on a south-facing slope over looking the Garonne river next to the medieval village of Rions. There are 10.0 hectares (6.6 hectares of red and 3.4 hectares of white). Some of the vines are up to 80 years old and yields are kept low (40hl/hectare) reflecting a preference for higher quality grapes with greater intensity of flavour at harvest time.
The vineyards are predominantly gravelly slopes, ensuring excellent drainage. The small amount of clay present between the pebbles constitutes just enough water heat of summer.
The white wines are made from 80% Semillon (the oldest Bordeaux grape variety) and 20% Sauvignon Blanc). The red wines are made from approximately 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. We aim to balance the freshness and fruitiness of new world wines with the traditions and 'terroir' of Bordeaux.
The white grapes are both hand and machine harvested depending on weather conditions and grape quality. The grapes pass through a quality control triage system and are de-stemmed, then pressed gently in a state-of-the-art pneumatic press. Approximately 70% of the crop is fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel cuvees and 30% in new oak barrels.
The red grapes are also hand and machine picked, these are left to ferment on their skins for 15 days under temperature controlled conditions in stainless steel tanks and then some of the wine is aged in oak. Oak aged wine is re blended prior to bottling to add greater complexity to the wine.
Both the red and white wines are bottled approximately 9 months after vintage to retain all the fresh fruity flavours and aromas .The Premiere Cote red wine is fruity with soft integrated tannins giving a long fine aftertaste. Emphasis is upon ripe fruit at harvest time and consequently the bouquet is strong and full of character with a deep, intense colour that takes on a brick-red tinge with age. The wines are ready for drinking immediately but will store for at least 5-8 years.
The Bordeaux Blanc is pale yellow in colour, with green highlights. The bouquet is strong and characterful, with aromas of broom flower, citrus fruit, peaches, and apricots. The wine is elegant, delicate and quite vivacious on the palate.
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