2014 Chateau Barrail du Blanc, St Emilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux

Château Barrail du Blanc is a tiny property of just 3 hectares. Owned by the same family for over 150 years, this property is located in the commune of Saint-Sulpice de Faleyrens, in the south of the Saint-Émilion Grand Cru appellation. The vineyard, averaging 25 years of age, is planted on gravel and clay soils that allow for good drainage and are particularly well-suited to Cabernet Franc. The grapes are treated with attentive care by Monsieur Elliès and his daughter, Nathalie, in the vineyard and in the cellar. Ploughing, green harvesting, and leaf cropping are favored to ensure a consistent maturity of the fruit. Why do we like it? On the nose, Chateau Barrail du Blanc opens to a subtle nose of red fruits basket, raspberry, blackcurrant then earthy notes such as sandalwood, dry leaves, mild spices. The palate is elegant, with dark cherry, tar with a silky structure and a powerful final. The wine has some age on it, perfect to drink now, definitely decant it, to aerate its aromas and serve in large glasses.   Grape            70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon Country        France                                  Region          Bordeaux                                        Vintage         2014