Château Haut-Queray
History
Château Haut Queray is a family estate rich in history, located north of the Saint-Émilion satellite appellations. For nearly two centuries, the Borderie family has cultivated this domaine with passion, passing down its expertise from generation to generation. Today, the estate stands out for its exclusively female management, led by Martine Borderie, her daughter, and her daughter-in-law, who bring a modern touch to this long-standing tradition.
The Vineyard
Covering 15 hectares, the vineyard is planted on an exceptional clay-limestone terroir, bordering the Lussac Saint-Émilion appellation. The vines, averaging 30 years old, consist of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, a blend that imparts the estate’s wines with great aromatic richness and an elegant structure. Cultivated sustainably, the parcels are meticulously monitored, with regular maturity checks both through tasting and analytical assessments. The grapes are harvested mechanically, ensuring an optimal harvest.
Winemaking & Aging
Vinification, carried out with respect for tradition, begins with a rigorous selection of parcels and total destemming. The must then ferments in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, maintaining temperatures around 28°C. Three pump-overs are performed daily to ensure optimal extraction of aromas and tannins, while extended maceration enhances the wine’s complexity.
Aging strikes a delicate balance between tradition and innovation. One-third of the harvest is aged for 12 months in French and American oak barrels, with 30% renewed each year with new casks, adding subtle woody notes. The remaining two-thirds mature in tanks, enriched by the use of staves, which help refine the structure and aromas. Racking, carried out one to three times depending on tastings, and fining with egg albumin reflect the estate’s unwavering commitment to quality.
Wine Character
The wines of Château Haut Queray stand out for their rich and harmonious character. The dominant Merlot brings generous aromas of ripe fruits and a velvety roundness, while the Cabernet Franc adds a touch of freshness and subtle spicy nuances. The result is a wine with a silky, well-balanced structure, perfect for sharing convivial moments.
