Alcohol: 13,5%
Grape(s): 80% Merlot, 10% each of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon,
Localization: Lalande-de-Pomerol, Bordeaux, France
Tasting Notes: Brought up in large barrels (demi-muids) and a blend of 80% Merlot and 10% each of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2016 Château Vieux Chevrol is a fresh, lively, mid-weight effort that has attractive dark fruits, spice, and earthy, underbrush-like aromas and flavors. It could use more fruit, but it's nicely balanced, with a pretty, seamless texture and plenty to like. It should keep for a decade.
The Domain: The Lalande-de-Pomerol appellation comprises a thousand hectares of vines in the villages of Lalande-de-Pomerol and Neac. Prior to 1925 the wines were labeled as Pomerol, but decrees were passed at that time separating the vineyards north of the Barbanne Stream and creating two new appellations: Lalande-de-Pomerol and Neac. In 1954 the vineyards of Neac were incorporated into the Lalande-de-Pomerol appellation.
The Champseix family has made wine at Château Vieux Chevrol for many generations and continues to do so in a traditional manner. Michel Champseix, who runs the estate now, has profound respect and veneration for his land; a relationship that truly guides his work. After taking over in 2016, he converted the vineyard to organic farming, gaining certification in 2019. Situated in the lieu-dit Chevrol, the Chateau Vieux Chevrol vineyard lies on the Neac plateau overlooking the vineyards of Pomerol, a terroir long considered the most privileged of the appellation. The soil is clay mixed with gravel and iron-rich sandstone known locally as crasse de fer, planted with 80% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Michel makes his wines as naturally as possible: native yeast fermentation, gravity movement, low sulfur additions, aging in 600-liter casks with little new oak (only 10%) and no filtration. The results are lively and engaging wines that showcase a wonderful depth of flavor with fabulous energy and sense of place. A staff and customer favorite, enjoy with filet of beef or roast pork loin.
