Merlot (65%), Cabernet Franc (20%), Cabernet Sauvignon (15%)
Libourne, Bordeaux, FR
A beautiful red from the Delol family, whose estate has been in the family since 1818 (!), this bottling reflects two centuries of tradition and a renewed vision under the guidance of Samuelle Delol, who has carried on her father Yves' legacy since 1995. Rooted in organic farming and non-interventional winemaking, the wine comes from two parcels, Cormeil and Chante-Alouette, with sandstone soils mixed with blue clay and vines averaging 40 years old. As one of the region’s pioneering female winemakers, Samuelle’s ethos is simple: “I strive to produce fruity, balanced, and elegant wines with soft tannins. I repeat well-balanced tannins, but not too powerful.”
Tannin: Domestique special ordered this wine from the estate with the help of their importer, Wine Traditions, which offers an opportunity to taste how tannins evolve over 16 years of bottle age. Tannins, derived from grape skins, seeds, and stems, are extracted during maceration and are crucial to a wine's structure and aging potential. Thicker-skinned grapes and extended skin contact yield higher tannin levels, which contribute to longevity and complexity. Over time, these tannins soften, integrating into the wine’s texture and allowing different flavors to emerge. Read more here.
The result: A hearty red with dark ruby hues, ripe fruit, and integrated tannins. Perfect for classic food pairings like steak or duck (Delol recommends this dish). Ideal for a special occasion or a Mr. Baguette-style meal.