Description
The 108 hectare vineyard of Cantemerle has 92 hectares under vine, planted to 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot.
On average, the vines are close to 30 years of age. They have old Cabernet vines, which are close to 70 years of age.
The terroir is mostly sand and gravel soils. The vineyard can be divided into 3 sections. Close to the chateau, you find soils with pebbles, small rocks, and dark, or black sand. To the east, close to the water tower, you find larger stones and gravel with sand.
As you head south, on the way to the city of Bordeaux, there you find more small rocks with white sand. All 4 grape varieties are planted in each vineyard. The estate’s best terroir is located close to chateau, in the northwest direction where you find Cabernet Sauvignon.
The average annual production of Chateau Cantemerle is about 25,000 cases per year.
Tasting Notes
Deep garnet colored, the 2010 Cantemerle gives up notes of cassis, baked plums and fragrant earth with hints of pencil shavings and bay leaves. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is chock-full of bright, juicy fruit with a lively backbone and a bit of chew to the finish.[90 Points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown – March 2020, robertparker.com]
