Château Puy Castéra Haut-Médoc 2012

Description

Chateau Puy Castera unlike many other Bordeaux wine producers does not have an age old history.  The Chateau was established in 1973 by Henri Mares with the expertise and advice from a well known oenologist M. Emile Peynaud.   The 28 hectare estate is located on a small hill which was formally a fortified Roman Camp, situated between the famous wine communes of Pauillac and St. Estephe and close to the small town of Cissac-Medoc.  The estate achieved the Haut-Medoc “Cru Borgeouis” classification after only five years of production, an incredible achievement!! Since 2002 Château Puy Castera has been run by Henri’s daughter Alix Marès who is a qualified agronomic engineer which encompasses soil science, plant genetics and physiology as well as agro-ecology.  Puy Castera is planted with 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 2% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot grape varieties, the relatively high proportion of Cabernet contributes backbone to the wine which enables a good ageing potential.

The grapes are hand picked and fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks, pumped over twice daily for optimum extraction of colour and tannins.  the wine then undergoes two to four weeks malolactic fermentation in concrete prior to 12 months aging in French Oak, 25% new.  Deep garnet in colour with a slight tinge of orange, the aromas are of blackberry, cherry and plum. The firm and structured body gives flavours of ripe black fruit with hints of spice, smooth integrated tannins and a warm lingering finish.

Delicious with lamb, beef and game, and, surprisingly, roast chicken.