Chateau De Sales 2012
Estate
Château de Sales, built in the 17th century, is the largest estate in the Pomerol appellation and has been owned by the same family for more than 500 years. Located 35 km east of Bordeaux, the vineyard of Château
de Sales is situated in the northwestern part of the Pomerol appellation.
Description
The vineyard of Château de Sales has a surface area of over 200 acres, with vines covering 116 acres. The vines are an average of more than 30 years old. The grape varieties planted here are typical of this
appellation: 71.5% Merlot, 13.5% Cabernet Franc, and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. The soils of Château de Sales are comprised of fine gravel and sand, with clay in some areas and an omnipresence of iron oxide.
Traditional growing methods are applied, as well as supervised control in order to reduce vine treatments (gender confusion, for instance, to avoid using insecticides) and ensure a harvest of healthy, ripe grapes.
After de-stemming and crushing, alcoholic fermentation takes place in concrete tanks equipped with temperature regulation. The wine is then aged for 12-18 months in French oak barrels, of which only one
third are new, in order to avoid any aggressive wood flavors and to preserve the brightness of the fruit.
Varietals: 70% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc
Soil Composition: Fine gravel and sand with iron oxide
Average Vine Age: 30 years
Aging: 12-18 months in French oak barrels (1/3 new)
Harvest
2012 was a vintage of contrasts, ultimately producing some wonderful wines. The alternating mild and exceptionally cold winter months gave way to unstable spring weather. Wet weather continued through
June, so careful vineyard management was essential to allow consistent ripening. Summer began in earnest in mid-July. Two hot, very dry months followed, punctuated by cool nights that provided balance and
freshness to the wines. A few showers in early September allowed the grapes to reach full maturity. Dry and sunny weather followed through harvest, ensuring that the grapes were harvested in optimal condition.
Tasting notes
Intense ruby color. The nose presents aromas of redcurrant and raspberry. On the palate, the wine is balanced, with silky, delicate tannins. The finish is long, persistent, with a lovely aromatic freshn
