 |
 |
 |
|
From Wine Spectator
Dense, chunky, and muscular, but not revealing much delineation, precision, or character, I suspect this wine is just finishing malolactic. A blend of 92% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc made from low yields of 28 hectoliters per hectare, it is a full-bodied, but rustic, disjointed effort.
Château Rol Valentin (Bordeaux, France)
 After a successful career as a professional footballer in France, Eric Prissette pursued his other passion in life, which is to create wines of exceptional class and finesse. He and his wife Virginie acquired Rol-Valentin in 1994, a Grand Cru estate located on the north-western part of the Saint Emilion plateau. The grapes from this exceptional estate are cultivated on just 4.6 hectares of vineyard, resulting in a remarkably small production of just 2,000 cases a year. The varietals are predominantly Merlot (85%), with about 8% Cabernet Franc and 7% Cabernet Sauvignon. The large percentage of Merlot produces an intense, velvety wine with ample fruit, and the clay-limestone soil on the slopes and plateau provides firm tannins with lovely minerality. The vine age is typically 35-40 years. Following the expert advice of consultant Stéphane Derenoncourt, Eric Prissette uses viticultural practices that are especially adapted for each plot. Upon crushing, the cap is punched three times per day during maceration and the wine is then barrel aged (100% new oak) on its lees, contributing to a spectacularly yeasty and aromatic bouquet. The lots are later blended to make a final wine that is perfectly integrated with wonderful length and structure.
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
