Château Caronne Sainte-Gemme Cru Bourgeois 2017

Standing on soil similar to that in Saint Julien, Château Caronne Saint Gemme produces its wines using traditional methods.

Taken up by Emilie Borie in 1900, this superb Médoc property soon began to produce wines coveted for their power and character. Three generations down the line and it’s François and Jean Nony who take care of Château Caronne Sainte-Gemme. The 45 hectares of vines grow in deep gravel soil that allows for the idea conservation of heat. The vines also have to push deep to draw water, taking in myriad minerals on the way. Once the grapes have been harvested (by hand) and sorted twice, there is a cold maceration to transmit all the colour, aromas and tannins held in the grape’s skin to the wine. There are then several instances of punching down during fermentation. Next, the wine is matured for 12 months in French oak barrels (20% new wood). The blend is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot. In the glass it has an intense, crimson colour, and a delicate nose of blueberry and pepper. On the palate we find a lovely, tannic underscore that is perfectly balanced with the acidity and alcohol of the wine. It will pair nicely with cured red meat.