Chateau La Grave Medoc

The history of Chateau La Grave dates back 3 generations with 3 major planting periods in 1954, 1975 and 2009.

Vineyards

Chateau La Grave is a Cru Bourgeois property that covers 23 hectares of densely-planted vines on a mixture of clay, gravel and limestone soils in the village of Blaignan, 10km to the North of the village of Saint Estephe. The wine is made from a blend of 59% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Petit Verdot. After fermentation its aged for 12 months in 1/3rd new oak casks.

Vinification

Vinifcation starts with a cold pre-fermentation maceration to delicately extract fruit aromas. After 3 or 4 days, the wines are warmed and alcoholic fermentations begin according to a thermo-regulated protocol. Finally the wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barriques, 35% new oak.

Tasting Notes

The 2016 was an excellent vintage, with even minor properties producing great wine. This is a good example, with lovely soft tannins matched by plenty of dark and red fruit with cedar notes, all in perfect equilibrium. Enjoyable drinking now, but with the bones to develop further. (about 10-15 years).