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 The
Graves appellation in the Bordelais produces both white and
red wines though is more commonly known for its whites. Named
for the gravely soils composed of clay and alluvial deposits
set down over the ages, this region has a reputation of producing
red wines with lots of character, structure and fruit, and typically
less expensive than wines of similar quality from the nearby
Médoc. This 12.2 hectare vineyard is planted in vines
whose average age is 25 yrs and produces a wine cépage
of 55% Merlot, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc and
8% combined of Petit-Verdot and Malbec.
This red Graves wine is made by Jean-Pierre Duprat who carefully selects the wines for the assemblage of his premier wine, Château du Maine. The château sits atop a hill, composed mainly of gravel and coarse sand with a gravel-clay subsoil, that offers excellent drainage for the property. Hence his wines are less affected by late season or harvest time rains.
This is an elegant, vibrant and full flavored red wine with lots of berry-like fruit and spice in the nose that follow through in the mouth with a roundness that is quite pleasing. Aging in oak barrels (about 30% new) for at least 18 months imparts an additional component to the wine. The fruit, wood and terroir blend harmoniously in this well-structured wine and slowly trail off together for a soft and delicate finish.
Jean-Pierre
Duprat in his cellar. |
Jean-Pierre
Duprat and Ron Spears in the vineyards. |
Jean-Pierre
Duprat |
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Chicago,
Illinois |
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