Château Crabitan Bellevue
This family estate stands out for its commitment to traditional and respectful viticulture. Limited production, combined with meticulous attention to every stage, gives Château Crabitan Bellevue wines a unique place among the great wines of Sainte-Croix-du-Mont. This dedication to tradition and environmental respect is reflected in every bottle, offering wine lovers an authentic and memorable experience.
History
Rooted in the history of French viticulture, the family behind Château Crabitan Bellevue began as barrel artisans in 1870. Settled on the heights of Sainte-Croix-du-Mont, in Crabitan, they cultivated a passion for wine and tradition. The current tasting room reflects this heritage, welcoming visitors in the former family kitchen. Since its beginnings, the estate has expanded through the acquisition and leasing of new parcels. In 1975, the vineyard adopted the name Château Crabitan Bellevue. Nicolas, now at the helm of the estate, joined his parents in 1994, strengthening the family legacy through the creation of GFA Bernard Solane et Fils.
the Vineyard
The estate, located on the clay-sandy-silt soils of Gabarnac, spans 4 hectares. Exclusively planted with Sémillon, the region’s emblematic grape variety, the vineyard benefits from simple and mixed Guyot pruning to maximize grape quality. With an average age of 45 years, the vines produce an annual yield of 10,000 bottles. The harvest is carried out by hand in multiple successive selections, ensuring a meticulous selection of only the finest grapes.
Winemaking and Aging
At Château Crabitan Bellevue, every step of the winemaking process is designed to preserve the integrity and aromatic expression of Sémillon. The manual harvest is carried out in multiple passes to capture the optimal level of ripeness at each stage. Once picked, the grapes are gently pressed using a pneumatic press, a technique that allows for a delicate extraction of juice without compromising flavors or aromas.
The resulting must is then placed in temperature-controlled tanks, ensuring a constant temperature throughout fermentation. This process enhances the development of subtle and well-balanced aromas. Fermentation is closely monitored to achieve perfect control over the wine’s structure and complexity.
Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 36 months in stainless steel tanks. This extended maturation in a neutral environment preserves the wine’s natural freshness while refining its texture. The absence of barrel aging highlights the purity of the fruit and the distinct character of the terroir, resulting in a delicate, harmonious, and elegantly crafted wine.
Wine Character
Château Crabitan Bellevue stands out for its aromatic richness and balance. The elegance of this sweet white wine showcases notes of candied fruit, honey, and a hint of freshness, reflecting an exceptional terroir and a know-how passed down through generations.
