Château Reynaud
Fronsac - 2018
The Vineyard
Managed according to the most demanding environmental practices, the Canon Cardinal vineyard is located in the village of Fronsac. It consists of a single 1.21-hectare parcel, with an average vine age of 55 years.
Appellation
Surface
Terroir
Grape varieties
Strictly hand-harvested. Transported in crates. Sorted before and after destemming.
Temperature-controlled stainless steel vat. Post-alcoholic fermentation maceration for 3–4 weeks.
Winemaking
Grape harvest
Winemaking
Appellation Fronsac Contrôlée
1,21 ha
Clay-limestone
100% Merlot
14 months in oak barrels – 1/3 new oak, 1/3 one-wine barrels, 1/3 two-wines barrels
Ageing
Ageing potential
2030-2033
Mise en bouteille au Château
The 2018 Vintage
The 2017 vintage was deeply marked by the frost episode, while 2018 began with an exceptionally wet and challenging spring. Unprecedented rainfall combined with mild temperatures created exceptionally high fungal disease pressure. The severity of mildew attacks threatened vineyards throughout Bordeaux, resulting in significant crop losses depending on the area and vineyard management practices.
Then, a dramatic shift in weather occurred in mid-July. Exceptionally warm, dry and sunny conditions settled in and lasted through the end of October. This bright late season brought an early halt to vine growth and progressively increased water stress. The excellent sanitary conditions at the end of summer allowed each parcel to reach optimal maturity at a measured pace.
Red Wine Vintage Profile
Exceptional overall quality : Harvesting took place under ideal conditions, allowing perfectly healthy grapes with excellent sugar concentration to be picked.
Dense and profound Merlots : Picked at perfect maturity, the Merlots display remarkable aromatic intensity, a rich, generous palate and an opulent tannic structure without any sense of heaviness.
Refined and structured Cabernets : Benefiting from continuous sunshine, the Cabernet varieties developed thick skins, perfectly ripe seeds and high anthocyanin concentration, bringing freshness and excellent ageing potential.
Conclusion : Born from a striking contrast between a challenging spring and a radiant summer, 2018 stands out as a great vintage for red wines in Bordeaux, combining richness, structure and power.
Comments
Yves Beck - 90/100
Deep purple with violet hues. The nose is floral and fruity, with good intensity, revealing notes of wild berries and violets. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and refined. Its chalky character brings tension, while the tannins provide a firm backbone. An authentic wine, beautifully shaped by its terroir.