2017 CHATEAU GAZIN POMEROL, FRANCE

Contrary to popular belief in Bordeaux – that years that end with a seven, with the exception of 1947, are poor – 2017 should refute this and provide a pleasant surprise for wine lovers.

The April frost that, unfortunately, affected the yield in many vineyards, did not touch the Pomerol plateau. For the lucky ones, which include Gazin, both quality and quantity are there: 89,000 bottles produced.

The wine harvest took place from September 5 to 21 for merlot grapes, to September 29 for cabernet franc grapes and to October 2 for the cabernet sauvignon grapes. The 2017 vintage is made up of 95 % merlot and 5 % cabernet franc, the cabernet sauvignon not being considered good enough to be associated with great wine.

With its dark red color, the Château Gazin 2017 presents black and red fruit aromas (cherry and blueberry) on the nose, mixed with discrete hints of vanilla and spice (nutmeg). In the background, there is also a touch of menthol, which is characteristic of cabernet franc. It brings a little freshness. On the palette, following a rounded and silky attack, we rediscover the berry flavors found on the nose associated with floral notes. The wine has a pleasant sweetness and good density without becoming heavy.

The Château Gazin 2017, although not as powerful nor complex as the 2015 and 2016 vintages, offers good balance, combining roundness and freshness. It has been aged for 15 months in 40 % new barrels and 60 % barrels that have been used once.

Its alcohol level is 13.6 % with a total acidity of 3.4g and a pH of 3.68. The cellaring potential of the 2017 vintage is estimated at 15 years.

Each vintage has its own personality. Château Gazin 2017 will not disappoint the wine lovers who know how to wait for it.

The second wine from the domain, Hospitalet de Gazin, produced 36,400 bottles made up of 90 % merlot, 8 % cabernet sauvignon and 2 % cabernet franc.