« Marked by strong emotions, my first vintage with "Famille Bouey Vignobles & Châteaux" team finally unveils a wine which confirms all its promises.
Although it had begun very auspiciously, 2017 vintage had a rude awakening in the morning of April 27th, after an unprecedented night frost (up to -5°C/23°F in some areas like in Gaillan vineyard). It has affected 30% of our vines, thus probably making 2017 a rare vintage.
Despite this event, the following weeks’ climatic conditions improved to much better, with a warm and dry spring helping a homogeneous flowering without “coulure” (poor fruit set and drop). Then, a mild but dry summer allowed an early ripening of the berries (mid-August) for all varietals.
We have spent a lot of time to control grapes ripeness level, tasting berries in each plot several times a week, in order to determinate the optimum harvest date. We kept lot of attention to the vines to reveal our exceptional "terroir" at its best.
We began harvesting first Merlots on September 21st, finishing on the La Ribaud Plateau on October 5th. Cabernet Sauvignons were picked at peak maturity October 3rd and 4th. Overall, harvest took place with perfectly dry and sunny weather conditions.
Vatting involved an insightful work to encourage the full expression of each different plot according to each typicality. Quick and considered decisions, as well as sharing with Derenoncourt Consultants oenologists and our team, were cadenced by daily tasting. The birth of a new vintage is a real teamwork.
On-going winemaking processes are much promising, allowing all projections for a fruity, distinguished and straight vintage. Tannins level is less than 2016, but at a sufficient level to stabilize colors and encouraging a powerful structure.
In our first tastings the Merlots deliver a bright fruit along with an elegant and straightforward backbone. The Cabernets are characterized by their freshness and a classy profile. Blending both should make a fruity vintage, with a nice freshness and nerve on the palate.
The aging will highlight the emerging quality of this vintage.
Aging potential should be mid to long term, probably 5-10 years.
I feel a great satisfaction and pride in having extracted the best of 2017 vintage, supported by an efficient and dedicated team. »
Pierre-Olivier Larrieu, Estate Manager « Famille Bouey Vignobles & Châteaux »
