Château La Garde, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France, 2012

Overview of the Wine
"We bought Château la Garde in June 1990, totally seduced by the exceptional quality of the terroir, which is quite possibly one of the finest gravel outcrops in the Pessac-Léognan appellation. Motivated by this ambitious project, worthy of this magnificent terroir, considerable time and finances have been invested and have been rewarded with the increasingly frequent production of delicate, elegant and appealing fine Pessac-Léognan wines." -Patrick Jestin

Located on one of the appellation's finest gravel outcrops, Château La Garde was one of the first vineyard estates to make a conscious commitment to preserve and protect the natural environment and adopt integrated viticulture. It is now "Terra Vitis" certified. It is an approach resulting in the production of premium quality grapes, and is fully mindful of both Man and the environment. Powerful and revealing intense colour, the red wines of Château La Garde Pessac-Léognan are well-structured and concentrated and ideal for ageing. Round, supple and alluring, they reflect the elegance and finesse of the terroir and today feature among the elite of the Pessac-Léognan appellation.

Vinification & Ageing
Pre-fermentation cold maceration. Alcoholic fermentation, with very few manipulations (pumping-over, pigeage). Malolactic fermentation partially in barrels.

Ageing in barrels takes place in an arched underground cellar with air-conditioning for 12-14 months. Cooperage savoir-faire and oak selection are combined when choosing the barrels so that they are best suited to the characteristics and style of Château La Garde wines.

Grape / Blend
52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 48% Merlot

Origin
Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France

Tasting Notes
Deep and concentrated in appearance. A seductive bouquet emitting aromas of ripe fruits, liquorice and a smoky character often found in the terroirs of Pessac-Leognan. On the palate, the power of the delicate, rounded tannins is accompanied by generous rich character and volume. The wine’s harmonious presence culminates in a long, well-balanced finish, with well-integrated oak character.

90 Points - James Suckling
Bright and clean with pretty berry and cherry character. Medium body and a firm-textured finish. Pretty wine. Drink and hold.

 Product size: 750ml