L'Enclos de Maucamps
This wine stands out thanks to its small-scale production, its historic plot location, and its refined yet easy-drinking character. It represents a genuine connection between the living heritage of Château Maucamps and a more immediate expression of its terroir—perfect for those seeking a characterful, elegant Haut-Médoc without extended cellaring.
History
As an extension of the Château Maucamps story, L’Enclos de Maucamps is a unique cuvée crafted from the estate’s historic plot, located just in front of the château. This cherished vineyard, planted with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, pays tribute to the very roots of the estate. The resulting wine presents a lighter, more approachable style than the château’s Grand Vin, while preserving the hallmark elegance and identity of its terroir.
The Vineyard
The vineyard spans 1.80 hectares and lies on a gravelly rise of Garonne-origin soil layered over clay subsoil. Nestled in Macau-en-Médoc, near the prestigious Margaux appellation, this terroir enhances the balanced expression of the Cabernet Sauvignon (70%) and Merlot (30%) grape varieties. With a dense planting of 6,500 vines per hectare, the vineyard is meticulously farmed using sustainable viticulture. A local weather station and disease modeling system help guide precise vineyard practices. Ripeness is monitored both analytically and through tasting, and the harvest is carried out mechanically.
Vinification and aging
Vinification is traditional and precise. Each plot is vinified separately, grapes are carefully sorted, fully destemmed, and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, maintaining fermentation temperatures around 28°C. Gentle extraction is ensured through three daily pump-overs. Maceration lasts from three to five weeks, depending on tasting assessments. One to three rackings are performed, and fining with egg white is applied if necessary.
The wine is aged in French oak barrels that have seen two to three previous vintages, allowing it to retain its fruit purity while gaining structure and a refined texture.
Wine Character
L’Enclos de Maucamps reveals a softer and more charming profile than the estate’s Grand Vin. It displays fine fruit definition, supple tannins, and an accessible structure, making it ideal for earlier drinking. Aromas of red and black fruits mingle with subtle oak notes, all carried by an elegant and well-balanced palate.
