The precision and complexity of a Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classe
Owned by Sylvie Cazes, the Grand Cru Classz of Saint-Emilion Chateau Chauvin enjoys a superb location, north-west of the town of Saint-Emilion, between Cheval Blanc and the Butte du Roi, on the right bank of Bordeaux. The vineyard extends over 15 hectares of vines, planted in a clay-sandy soil with iron dross upon a clay subsoil.
2018 is undeniably in line with the greatest vintages of the Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classe Chateau Chauvin. A vintage marked by strong climatic contrasts, 2018 is reminiscent of the exceptional 2015 and 2016.
Despite the strong mildew pressure lasting until mid-July, Chateau Chauvin was spared, due to its geographical location, which allows for a good ventilation of the vine. The constant attention and know-how of the technical teams made it possible to maintain the vineyard in excellent sanitary conditions. The good weather in August and September permitted the grapes to reach an ideal level of ripeness, with great color and a nice aromatic freshness.
The Chateau Chauvin 2018 is made from Merlot (85%), complemented by Cabernet Franc (12%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (3%). At the tasting, the Chateau Chauvin 2018 offers a pure expression of its terroir of origin, enhanced by the exceptional quality of its vintage. This vintage reveals a beautiful aromatic expression, with notes of fresh fruit. The palate seduces with its structure, further enhanced by tannins of great finesse. A successful vintage indeed by this prestigious Classified Growth of Saint-Emilion.
Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Chauvin is a little shy to begin, revealing pretty scents of wild blueberries, kirsch and warm black cherries followed by hints of violets and star anise. Full, wonderfully intense and concentrated, there is a lot of bright, crunchy fruit here with firm, rounded tannins and a refreshing lift to the long finish. Nicely done!