François Thienpont, La Voilette du Manoir, Castillon Côtes De Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France, 2019

Viticulture

La Violette du Manoir comes from a single 4-hectare vineyard parcel of Château Manoir du Gravoux in Castillon–Côtes de Bordeaux. The vineyard is situated on a clay-limestone plateau, a terroir renowned for producing wines of depth, freshness and finesse. Planted in 1958 on shallow, well-exposed soils, the site benefits from an excellent geographical position for high-quality viticulture. The vineyard is planted predominantly with Merlot (92%), complemented by 8% Cabernet Franc. The limestone-rich soils contribute notable freshness and a distinctive saline character to the wine's finish.

Winemaking

Following harvest, the wine is matured for 12 months in oak barrels. This period of ageing enhances the wine's texture and complexity while preserving the purity of fruit from the old-vine Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The result is a refined and harmonious Bordeaux with layered dark fruit flavours, subtle spice and a long, mineral finish.

Tasting Note

Deep and expressive, with ripe Merlot fruit, plum and black cherry characters layered with subtle spice. The clay-limestone terroir gives freshness and balance, while the limestone soils contribute a distinctive saline note on the finish. Lovely aromas of strawberry soup mixed with hints of mint. Precise mouthfeel, powdery tannins. Curved and dynamic second half.

Food matching

Roast lamb with rosemary, duck breast, beef bourguignon, mushroom dishes and mature hard cheeses.