Blanc de Valandraud 2024

The balance and creaminess of a dry Bordeaux blancs sec wine

The estate

Château Valandraud, founded in 1989 by Jean-Luc Thunevin and Murielle Andraud, is located in the Fongaban valley in Saint-Émilion. Initially a bold 0.6-hectare project, it stood out through its membership in the garage wine movement, promoting innovative methods and limited production. Classified Premier Grand Cru Classé in 2012, the estate is recognized for its innovative practices and the finesse of its wines.

The vineyard

The parcels dedicated to Blanc de Valandraud are planted on clay-limestone soils that give the wine its characteristic minerality. This exceptional terroir, covering 3 hectares with vines averaging 15 years old, combined with the vines' ideal exposure, allows the white grape varieties to fully develop their aromatic potential while retaining the freshness essential to the balance of great Bordeaux Blancs Secs.

The vintage

The 2024 vintage was marked by contrasting climatic conditions that demanded careful vineyard management. A mild and very rainy winter was followed by an equally wet spring, resulting in significant mildew pressure. The alternation of rain and sunny days during the summer delayed berry ripening.

Winemaking and aging

The grapes are hand-harvested at perfect maturity then gently pressed as whole clusters. Fermentation takes place in tanks and then in barrels. No malolactic fermentation. Aged for 8 to 10 months on the lees in new barrels (80%) and amphorae (20%).

Blend

The Blanc de Valandraud 2024 comes from a harmonious blend of Sauvignon Gris (55%), Sauvignon Blanc (40%), and Sémillon (5%).