Chateau Lespault-Martillac 2019

The richness and minerality of a fine white wine from Pessac-Leognan

The estate
An irresistibly charming and historic property located in the Pessac-Leognan appellation, Chateau Lespault-Martillac has experienced a real quality renaissance. Since 2009, the operation of Château Lespault-Martillac has been entrusted to the Grand Cru Classe de Graves Domaine de Chevalier and Olivier Bernard. With great passion and determination, Olivier Bernard has elevated this estate to its very best through wines that exude terroir in the glass.

The vineyard
Situated in the Pessac-Leognan appellation, the Chateau Lespault-Martillac vineyard is planted in deep gravel soils upon clayey-gravelly subsoils. 8 hectares of the vineyard are dedicated to the production of red wines and 1.5 hectares to the white wines. The vines are 40 years old on average.

The vintage
A sunny vintage, 2019 produced a superb wine at Chateau Lespault-Martillac. After a damp and mild spring, summer arrived with full force on June 20. July and August were characterized by scorching temperatures. The rainy days at the end of August were very beneficial, allowing the fruit to ripen by limiting the water stress of the vines. The harvest of the whites began on September 5^th, yielding magnificent Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon.

The winemaking

Harvest in three to five successive waves, depending on ripeness. Slow pneumatic pressing without stemming and without maceration. Settling in small inox tanks by gravity and alcoholic fermentation in barrels. No malolactic fermentation. Aging on the lees in barrels for 9 months with lees stirring.

The aging
9 months in barrels, including ¼ new barrels on lees with lees stirring.

The blend
Sauvignon blanc (70%), Sémillon (30%).

The tasting
Tasted as a wine future, the Chateau Lespault-Martillac white 2019 has a beautiful light gold color with pale green reflections. With its great aromatic richness, the nose reveals delicious notes of yellow summer fruits, such as vine peaches, as well as exotic fruits and delicate floral notes. The attack gives way to a smooth and generous texture, enhanced by a lively acidity, which brings a sustained tension. The finish highlights the saline minerality of the vintage, resulting in great freshness and finesse.