The freshness and smoothness of a Margaux Cru Classe
The estate
Chosen as a 3rd Classified Growth of Margaux during the great classification of Medoc wines in 1855, Chateau Kirwan has belonged to the Schÿler family since 1925. The dynamic Philippe Delfaut has endowed the estate with new infrastructures and elevated it to the height of its appellation. Chateau Kirwan today belongs to the elite circle of Margaux Grands Crus.
The vineyard
Located on the Cantenac plateau, in Margaux, the Chateau Kirwan vineyard covers 37 hectares of vines. This superb outcropping of gravel and clay give rise to fine Margaux wines.
The vintage
The frost episode at the beginning of April had a 90% impact on a 2.5-hectare plot of land located 2 km from the heart of the vineyard. The rest of the property's terroir is naturally protected from frost by its proximity to the Gironde estuary. The heavy rainfall in May, June and July led to heavy mildew pressure which caused yield losses of 10 to 20% depending on the plots and the grape varieties, particularly the Merlot grapes. Despite dry conditions, August was cloudy and not very sunny. The harvest began late in order to harvest at optimal maturity. The grapes revealed rich sugar levels and a pleasant acidity that are on a par with fine vintages from 20 years ago.
Vinification
Bleeding is used to promote concentration. Gentle extractions via R'pulse instead of classic pumping over. Vatting time for 21 days. Simultaneous alcoholic and malolactic fermentation. Running off after 3 weeks. Aged in barrels.
The blend
Cabernet Sauvignon (73%)
Merlot (13%)
Cabernet Franc (8%)
Petit Verdot (6%).
Chateau Kirwan 2021: Characteristics and tasting tips
The tasting
This 2021 vintage possesses an alluring precision, a beautiful tension and a fresh expression. Although 2021 does not showcase the opulence of the subsequent more sunny vintages, it reveals a rare balance, suppleness and finesse.