Château de l'Anglais
One of the great singularities of Château de l’Anglais “Le Chevalier” lies in its historical heritage and unique terroir. Heir to a chivalric legend, this wine embodies the nobility and authenticity of the great wines of Bordeaux. Its meticulous production, without aging in wood, preserves the full expression of the fruit, offering an accessible, indulgent, and perfectly balanced wine. This cuvée, both expressive and refined, follows in the tradition of great terroir wines, designed to accompany both traditional dishes and more contemporary cuisine.
History
Château de l’Anglais “Le Chevalier” is an estate steeped in history and tradition, where the art of viticulture is perpetuated in the purest Bordeaux tradition. Its origins date back to 1453, at the end of the Hundred Years’ War. Legend has it that a soldier from General Talbot’s army, captivated by the beauty and richness of the lands of Puisseguin, decided to settle there and establish his haven of peace. He dedicated these hillsides to vineyards, laying the foundations of a legacy that endures to this day. This estate, named “Château de l’Anglais,” bears witness to this fascinating history, combining ancestral expertise with a passion for wine.
The Vineyard
Located in the heart of the Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux appellation, the vineyard of Château de l’Anglais extends over 1.70 hectares within an exceptional terroir characterized by clay-limestone hillsides. This soil imparts a beautiful structure and a subtle minerality to the wine, offering a refined expression of the estate’s emblematic grape variety, Merlot. With a planting density of 5,000 vines per hectare, each parcel is optimized to ensure remarkable concentration and aromatic intensity. Averaging fifteen years in age, the vines produce grapes of optimal quality, harvested with precision in a commitment to respecting the terroir and preserving the environment.
In dedication to sustainable viticulture, every stage of vine cultivation is meticulously monitored. Grape maturity is assessed rigorously through both sensory and quantitative analyses to determine the ideal harvest time. The harvest is carried out mechanically, ensuring an efficient and uniform collection—essential for preserving the integrity of the berries and guaranteeing high-quality winemaking.
Winemaking & Aging
At Château de l’Anglais, winemaking is an art where every detail matters. From the moment of harvest, a parcel-based selection is carried out to vinify separately the lots with specific characteristics. The grape clusters are then fully destemmed to avoid excessive astringency and enhance the purity of the fruit. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, a technological choice that allows for precise temperature control, maintained around 28°C, ensuring optimal extraction of aromas and color.
To reveal the wine’s full complexity, pump-overs are performed twice daily, promoting homogenization and the expression of silky tannins. The maceration process is prolonged, allowing the wine to refine and develop great depth. Before aging, egg white fining is carried out after prior testing, with the aim of refining the texture and enhancing the wine’s clarity.
Aging lasts twelve months, exclusively in tanks— a choice that preserves all the freshness and fruity character of Merlot. This method highlights the purity of the grape variety, allowing the wine to express itself with finesse, free from any oaky influence.
Wine Character
Château de l’Anglais “Le Chevalier” captivates with its balance and elegance. Its deep red hue immediately reveals remarkable intensity. The nose is characterized by a rich aromatic palette, where ripe red fruit notes—predominantly plum and black cherry—are enhanced by a hint of spice and subtle minerality. On the palate, the attack is smooth, giving way to a silky texture supported by delicate tannins. The harmony between freshness and roundness lends this wine great drinkability, with an aromatic persistence that unfolds gracefully.
