Lacroix-Martillac Red
2017
Surface of production for red: 40 ha (total surface: 50 ha)
Nature of the soil: Gűnz gravel from the Quaternary period, on the plateau above the village of Martillac
Grape varieties: 55% Cabernet Sauvignon; 40% Merlot; 5% Petit Verdot
Pruning: Double Guyot system for Cabernet Sauvignon, Cordon system for Merlot and Petit Verdot
Density of planting: 7200 feet/ha
Average age of the vineyard: 25 years
Vineyard management: Traditional methods with mechanical ploughing. Sustainable Vine Protection.
Green harvesting by hand: Desuckering, excess bud removal, leaf thinning, removal of secondary shoots.
The 2017 vintage
Following a dry winter, this vintage was hit by late frosts on the 27th, 28th and 29th of April which badly affected our vines, notably the white grape varieties. Luckily the best Cabernet Sauvignon parcels in the heart of the village were spared. It was the furthest away parcels, which normally produce our second wine, which were most affected. Those parcels, which escaped the frost started a very early cycle of vegetation, leading up to a quick and uniform flowering. The month of June was hot and sunny. Fortunately, the temperate climate of July and August allowed the acidity and the freshness of the fruit to be preserved. “The veraison” was as equally early around mid-July. The reds were harvested between the 12th and the 29th of September, confirmation again of an early harvest. Before the harvest, in the partially frost hit parcels, considerable work was undertaken to identify the unaffected vines and to select which first generation, non-frost damaged bunches to pick.
Period of harvest
From September 12th to September 29th, 2017
Blending
60% Merlot – 40% Cabernet Sauvignon
Tasting notes
Lovely deep colour on this wine with bright highlights. First impression on the nose is fresh and of blackberries. A swirl in the glass reveals roasted, black fruit notes. The mouth is soft, full and juicy. The present tannins are well-balanced with a sensation that is full and round.»
Optimal Tasting
2022-2027
Service Température
Between 16°C / 61°F and 18°C / 64°F.
