2015 Clos Cantenac Saint Emilion Grand Cru

Clos Cantenac is a small but seductive 15-acre property made up of four main parcels of vines carefully planted on an exceptional “terroir” of deep gravels, sand, and clay over broken limestone situated close to the prehistoric “Megalith de Pierrefitte”. Their winemaking team works systematically on a parcel-by-parcel basis, according to the age, condition, seasonal variations, and requirements of our gently sloping, south-facing vineyards to produce Grand Cru worth wines on the right bank.

"The wines of Clos Cantenac have a good “polish” about them and a fine sense of place." -Steve Spurrier, Editor of Decanter Magazine 

2015 was a wonderful growing year, particularly for those with the ‘terroirs’ that were able to cope with the long periods of drought and high temperatures. Fortunately, for Clos Cantenac their vines are largely situated on either deep gravels or shallow sandy soils over gravels/clay and broken limestone, and so fared very well during the prolonged period of drought leading to water deficit as a result of the lack of rain from April until August. The quality of the harvest was very high, easily equal to 2009 and 2010 vintages.

Aging: 14 months in 40% New French Oak 

Tasting notes: 100% Merlot. The wine shows a deep dense black in color with a vibrant and hugely appealing nose of fine rich, ripe fruits, with hints of elderberries, praline, violet, and cassis-like aromas, enhanced by deep and dark spicey notes of cinnamon and pepper. The elegance and finesse of the wine are further supported by a whole register of complex lush fresh berry and brambly flavors, pencil shavings, almonds, mocha, roasted chestnuts, and subtle soft grilled new oak notes.