Chateau Jacques-Noir Saint-Emillion

It is said that this Chateau was originally the den of an unmerciful warlord; he was named "Le Noir", The Black, due to his black Armor and his tendency to attack after sunset. By day he lived there with his men, soldiers or winemakers" and by night he plotted with his thieves.

Serious work has been carried out in the vineyard and in the winery to restore this historic property that was bought by our family in 2001. Situated on the eastern side of the appellation, its terroir provides beautiful, elegant Merlot, the favoured right-bank varietal.

Vinification

The grapes were hand-selected and picked during cool, early mornings. They then underwent a pre-fermentation, cold maceration for 24-48 hours. Alcoholic fermentation took place in thermos-regulated stainless steel vats at around 26C and then a gentle vatting for 3 weeks at 30C. The juices were then run off, and separated from the pressed fruit. Malolactic fermentation took place in thermos-regulated stainless steel vats at around 18C. Ageing took place in oak barrels for 12 months (33% new, 33% once-used, 33% twice-used). The wine was then bottled and aged for a further 18 months in the cellars.

Tasting Notes

Bright ruby red in colour. A delicate, almost soft nose, bringing together red fruit and toasted notes. A round attack with plenty of oak reveals great maturity and a balanced structure supported by soft tannins. Persistent notes of strawberry and blackberry bring freshness and elegance on the finish.