Château des Laurets Puisseguin Saint-Emilion — 2016
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Introduction
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Built circa 1860, the château features an octagonal tower overlooking the grounds. The vineyards are planted on south-facing slopes with limestone outcrops. The excellent clay-limestone soil gives this Merlot-based Saint-Émilion wine its distinctive taste. Baron Benjamin de Rothschild acquired this superb property in 2003, aiming from the beginning to achieve its fine potential.
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Vineyard Profile
- Appellation: Puisseguin Saint-Émilion
- Composition: 80% Merlot; 20% Cabernet Franc
- Size: 40 ha (98.84 acres)
- Soil: Limestone and clay
- Density: 5,500 vines/ha (13,590 vines/acre)
- Training: Natural grass cover, double Guyot
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Vintage Report
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“An outstanding vintage with unprecedented weather!” – Fabrice Bandiera, Technical Director
The winter was exceptionally wet and wild. Temperatures were unseasonably balmy and dry until the end of December. January and February were also clement but accompanied by significant precipitation. In fact, it rained nearly every day during those months. There was 193% more in January and 108% more in February at the estate compared to the 15-year average. Spring was cool and wet, but frost free. Flowering was even and took place the first 10 days of June. This was followed by a very hot and dry summer. 2016 has all the hallmarks of an outstanding vintage because yields were generous and quality of fruit was superlative.
- Harvest Date(s): Merlot from October 5 to 19, Cabernet Sauvignon on October 20
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Vinification
- Fermentation: Cold soaking and fermentation in oak and stainless steel vats with automatic temperature-control. Post-fermentation micro-oxygenation during maceration and malolactic fermentation in oak and stainless steel vats.
- Aging: 14 months, 30% in new barrels, 30% in second fill barrels and the rest in vats.
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Technical Information
- Alcohol: 14%
- Optimum Drinking: 10-15 years
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Tasting Notes
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Violet hues are transparent in the glass. The extremely fresh nose expresses intense black fruit. Hints of cedar mingle with the aroma of Morello cherries. The elegant palate possesses a bold character with sophisticated velvety tannins and notes of liquorice. The finish is long and persistent. While the freshness of this young wine is very pleasant, it also promises an excellent cellaring potential.
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