Chateau Les Cruzelles, Lalande-de-Pomerol, Bordeaux, France, 2020

Overview of the Wine
Bordeaux legend Denis Durantou purchased Les Cruzelles in 2000. Recognising the fine terroir of Lalande de Pomerol, a commune that often runs the risk of being overlooked, he quickly turned this unknown estate into a top performer. It lies just north of his flagship estate, L’Eglise-Clinet in Pomerol proper, and displays a grace and complexity that echoes its big brother but at a much lower price. In fact, if you know where to look you can see the vines of Les Cruzelles from the vineyards of L’Eglise-Clinet. Crucially, the vineyards share the same clay soils so are perfect for producing fine Merlot, and the vineyard is split 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc. Denis Durantou sadly passed away in 2020 and his wife and daughters have taken over the running of his estates and we are sure will continue to develop the great potential that Denis recognised in Les Cruzelles. 

Winemakers
Noémie Durantou and Olivier Gautrat

Grape / Blend
80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc

Origin
Pomerol, Bordeaux, France

Tasting Notes
...a clear difference in the vintage, with beautifully sculpted bitter almond and frangipane, tobacco, liqourice and black cherry. This is a Lalande-de-Pomerol with true character, starts off pretty austere and then widens through the mid palate and delivers creamy blue fruit. 50% new oak, harvest September 10 to 16. 3.72ph, 38hl/ha yield. Noemie Durantou winemaker alongside Olivier Gautrat.

94 Points - Jeb Dunnuck
On another level, the 2020 Château Les Cruzelles checks in as 80% Merlot and 20 %Cabernet Franc raised in 50% new French oak. It has terrific aromatics of black raspberries, plums, damp earth, and chocolate, and it would easily pass undetected in a lineup of top Pomerols. Medium to full-bodied, layered, and opulent, it's a no-brainer that readers will love. It’s every bit as good as the 2019 and will evolve for at least a decade

93 Points - Vinous
The 2020 Les Cruzelles is a serious, potent Lalande de Pomerol that is going to need a few years to soften. I wouldn't think of touching a bottle any time soon. Firm yet well-balanced tannins lend energy and drive. Black cherry, graphite, sage, mint, tobacco and incense add to an impression of virile intensity that gains vigour over time. This is such a gorgeous and inviting wine

93 Points - Wine Advocate
The 2020 Les Cruzelles is a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, coming from gravelly clay soil. The Merlot was picked from the 10th to the 15th September, and the Cabernet Franc was picked on the 16th of September. It has an alcohol of 14.5% and is aging in French oak barrels, 50% new. Deep garnet-purple in color, it bursts with impactful notes of plum preserves, blueberry compote and kirsch, plus suggestions of violets, mocha and pencil lead. The medium to full-bodied palate explodes with vibrant black fruits and fantastic freshness, framed by ripe, velvety tannins, finishing long and fragrant. 18,000 bottles are expected to be made."

Product size: 750ml