Lacroix-Martillac Red

Surface of production for red: 47 ha (total surface: 56 ha)
Nature of the soil: Gűnz gravel from the Quaternary period, on the plateau above the village of Martillac
Grape varieties: 55% Cabernet Sauvignon; 40% Merlot; 5% Petit Verdot
Pruning: Double Guyot system for Cabernet Sauvignon, Cordon system for Merlot and Petit Verdot
Density of planting: 7200 feet/ha
Average age of the vineyard: 25 years
Vineyard management: Traditional sustainable farming methods, with mechanical soil maintenance. The work on the growing vines is carried out manually (pruning, excess buds, shoots and leaves removal). High Environmental Value certification (HVE).

The 2020 vintage was marked by 3 major climatic events:
After a mild winter, the 3rd mildest winter ever recorded, and a bud break 15 days ahead of schedule, the spring was marked by great humidity, with a record rainfall on the weekend of May 10 and 11. These climatic conditions caused the appearance of a very virulent mildew on our red grapes.
From mid-June onwards, the weather changed radically with a very dry summer marked by 8 weeks without rain, a first for the region of Bordeaux. The few rains in mid-August were essential to reactivate the ripening of the grapes. This drought had a major impact on the vines growing on gravels, which gave us small but very concentrated grapes.
Last but not least, the early harvest was marked by an unprecedented heat wave in mid- September. This had the effect of further concentrating the grapes. And for the third time in our history, we finished harvesting our last Cabernet-Sauvignon in September.

Period of harvest
Merlot : from Sept. 9 to 17
Cabernet Sauvignon : from Sept. 17 to 29

Blending
60% Merlot – 40% Cabernet Sauvignon

Tasting notes
The Lacroix-Martillac Red 2020, with its deep purple sheen, has a fruity nose, characterized by wild strawberry,
blackberry and cherry, but also a delicate smokiness. The palate is fresh and pleasant. We find red fruits and a touch of spices and chocolate, all in roundness and richness, with fine tannins. It should be drunk within 5 to 8 years.

Optimal Tasting
2024-2029

Service Température
Between 16°C / 61°F and 18°C / 64°F.