Winemaker Jacques-Henri Bravard
Winery Name Château Haut-Meneau
Appellation Premières Côtes de Blaye
Country France
Grape Varietal Merlot 60% Cabernet Sauvignon 40%
HISTORY
Château Haut-Meneau is located in the heart of the Côtes de Blaye, the oldest producing region in Bordeaux. The Château Haut-Meneau, established in 1825, earned the “cru bourgeois” distinction in 1873. Purchased in 1988 by Jean-Paul Bravard (owner of cellars in Normandy) and subsequently taken over by his son, Jacques-Henri in 1998, the Château now holds 10 hectares.
TERROIR
The soil is clay and chalk. The Château is situated on a crest “the small mount” for which the Château is named. The climate is maritime with mild and rainy winters, hot and stormy springs, warm summers and mild autumns.
VITICULTURE & VINIFICATION
The 35 year-old vines, planted at a density of 5,500 vines per hectare, yield 35 Hl / hectare. The traditional fermentation takes place in small tanks. Jacques-Henri’s respect for the vintage and terroir are expressed by his working with the vintage as opposed to manipulating it.
AGEING
6 month in the tanks and 12 months in new oak barrels.
VINTAGE
2006 experienced a dry winter, rainy spring, warm and stormy summer followed by a dry and chilly period until the harvest. 2006 follows the great 2005 vintage but is much more aromatic with a bit less tannins but more subtle. The balance between acidity and alcohol - so typical to Bordeaux - leads to an elegant and fine wine that can age for at least 10 years.
STYLE
Eye: Deep garnet color.
Nose: Fruity aromas of blackberry, cherry, strawberry along with oaky aromas: toast, vanilla.
Palate: Elegant wine. A classic Bordeaux. Blackberries and spices with a smooth tannic structure.
FOOD PAIRING
Great with red meats, rich sauce dishes and cheeses. Try it with chocolate.
WHEN TO DRINK
Now and up 10 years, all year long
TECHNICALS
Alcohol: 13%, Total acidity: 3.25 g/l, PH: 3.50,
Residual sugar: 0
French Blonde 2008
La Victoire 2006
