CHÂTEAU TRONQUOY LALANDE, France

Viticulture

Merlot makes up 52% of vineyard plantings, making it a little unusual compared to Tronquoy-Lalande's neighbouring vineyards. Vabernet makes up 39% with a little Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Situated on a perfect exposure on 8 metre deep gravel and clay with outcrops naturally formed over centuries that encourages rainwater run off and the nearby Gironde estuary acting to moderate the temperature, they have an ideal spot for making great wine. Farmed traditionally, ploughed using the "four ways" method loosening the soil allowing rainwater to penetrate and eliminating weeds.

Winemaking

Four grape varieties are used in the Tronquoy-Lalande red blend: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Each one plays its role and enhances the other three by bringing roundness, density, its aromas and flavour profile and persistence. After blending, the wine is put into barrels and then aged for a year in French oak barrels.