VINTAGE
October 2 to October 9
BLEND
cabernet-sauvignon 55%, merlot 38%, cabernet franc 5%, petit verdot 2%
FERMENTATION
alcoholic in open and closed barrels (60% of the harvest), malolactic fermentation in barrels (100%)
MATURING 100% in barrels, 60% in new oak
PRODUCTION
13 593 bottles
378 magnums
20 double magnums
Chateau Hourtin-Ducasse 2021
A jewel
Get the data sheet
THE SEASON
2021, the year of all climate dangers! Or almost. A relatively mild winter, an early spring allowing the vines to start (too) early, then a frost episode in April, which impacted all of France and all crops. In our case, 8 to 10% of the harvest was lost. And then, water, water, water... with temperatures sometimes too high allowing mildew to attack us relentlessly on leaves from May to July, but also on bunches for one of our plots. Daily attention and a greater number of treatments were not enough to protect it. The weather forecast for the harvest did not spare us with the announcement of daily rain episodes. Finally, a window of opportunity opened for a dry harvest from October 2nd to 9th. Phew!
The volumes are obviously not there, but the colors are there, the fruit is very present with a great aromatic power, a beautiful freshness and tonicity. 2021 should be a fruity, elegant, dynamic and precise vintage. A classic expression of the Haut-Médoc that will satisfy all those who like to enjoy wines (with moderation) and not only to taste them.
2021, the year of all climate dangers! Or almost...
TASTING
Bright purplish color
Expressive nose of fresh fruit, smoky notes and fresh tobacco.
Straightforward, fruity attack. Supple and sustained by fresh, greedy fruit. Tension leads the tasting.
Fruit and length characterize this wine with melted tannins.
Harmonises with : lemon pot au feu (recipe on our blog), roasted spiced cauliflower, ravigote veal head, Sainte Maure de Touraine cheese…