Chateau d'Aiguilhe, Castillon, Côtes de Bordeaux, France, 2020

Overview of the Wine
Acquired by Stephan von Neipperg at the end of 1998, Château d’Aiguilhe is one of the most beautiful estates in the Castillon - Côtes de Bordeaux. The existing building, a sort of fortified farm, dates from the 13th century. Everything leads us to believe that the Aiguilhe seigneury covered a very large tract of land in the Middle Age, encompassing several important fiefs. Located on the border between French-controlled and English-controlled areas during the Hundred Years’ War, the Château played a major military role.

Today, the estates covers 111 hectares, of which 50 are devoted to winegrowing.

The vines (80% Merlot - 20% Cabernet Franc) grow uniquely on the upper part of the slope, where they find excellent natural drainage and south-facing sun exposure. The thin layer of relatively meagre clay-limestone and clay-silt soil covers a limestone substratum that provides wonderful water regulation. These natural advantages, combined with old vines, are conducive to producing powerful and mineral wines.

The estate is expertly managed by Jean-Patrick Meyrignac. It benefits from the tried and tested winegrowing methods used by Stephan von Neipperg at his Saint-Emilion estates: letting the terroir express itself fully, low yields and a very flexible approach to winemaking.

Grape Blend
90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc

Origin
Côtes de Bordeaux, France

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
Vinification in oak and concrete tanks. Extraction by pneumatic punching down. Vatting for 40 days. Aging on fine lees, carried out in French oak barrels (30% new). The Chateau d'Aiguilhe vineyards extend over almost 90 hectares in the heart of the Castillon Cotes de Bordeaux appellation. The vineyard is exclusively planted in clay-limestone and clay-loam soils.

93 Points - James Suckling
A solid density of fruit with blackberry, white pepper and some salt. Walnut undertones. Very long and flavorful. Compact palate. Very well done.

93 Points - Decanter
Violet reflections, great clarity of colour and immediate whoosh of salinity through the redcurrant fruits. Powerful and focused with bright berry flavours, it practically defines the term crunchy fruit, then softens to show creamier black cherry purée as it relaxes in the glass. Really a very tasty d'Aiguilhe from Vignobles Comtes von Neipperg. Extremely moreish.

93 Points - Jeb Dunnuck
From the up-and-coming Castillon region, just east of Saint-Emilion, the 2020 Chateau D'Aiguilhe has a floral, cassis, and black raspberry-driven style that shows more tobacco and classic limestone minerality with time in the glass. It's medium to full-bodied, has fine tannins, and the balance and class to evolve for 10-15 years. It's a seriously good Castillon, even better than the brilliant 2019. Best After 2023.

92 Points - Wine Spectator
Nicely rendered, with a very pure beam of cassis and cherry puree leading the way, infused gently with violet and savory accents. The fresh, focused finish is sneaky long. Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

92 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Aromas of cassis, dark berries and cherries mingle with subtle hints of incense and spices in an inviting bouquet to introduce the 2020 d'Aiguilhe, a medium to full-bodied, fleshy and layered wine with powdery tannins and the lively acids that are typical of this later-ripening, limestone-rich sector. Always a notable value, this age-worthy cuvée has turned out very well this year. Best After 2023

Product size: 750ml