Chateau Grand Corbin, Saint Emilion Grand Cru Classe 2015

Château Grand Corbin is among the oldest estates in Saint-Émilion, with its origins tracing back to the 18th century. A notable figure in its history is Guillaume Ignace Bouchereau, who, after amassing wealth from sugar cane plantations in Santo Domingo, returned to the Libourne region and acquired Château Grand Corbin. He was a visionary, implementing meticulous viticultural practices that were ahead of his time. Over the years, the estate changed hands multiple times, with significant ownership by the Giraud family in the 20th century. In 2010, the SMA Group acquired Château Grand Corbin, and in 2012, it was promoted to Grand Cru Classé status, reflecting its esteemed position in the Bordeaux wine hierarchy.

Located in the northwestern part of Saint-Émilion, near the border with Pomerol, Château Grand Corbin's vineyards span approximately 28.5 hectares. The terroir is characterized by sandy soils atop a deep layer of blue clay, a composition that provides excellent drainage while retaining sufficient moisture, ideal for cultivating Merlot, the dominant grape variety. Some parcels also contain iron-rich clay, contributing to the wine's complexity and structure. 

The estate practices sustainable viticulture, emphasizing environmental responsibility. The vineyard's average vine age is around 40 years, contributing to the depth and concentration of the wines produced.

Harvesting is conducted manually, ensuring careful selection of grapes. Post-harvest, the berries undergo meticulous sorting before fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. The fermentation process includes techniques like cold maceration to extract color and flavor, followed by punching down and pump-overs to ensure optimal extraction. The wine is then aged for 12 to 14 months in French oak barrels, with approximately 33% new oak, balancing oak influence with the wine's intrinsic character.

🍷 Tasting Notes: Château Grand Corbin 2015

The 2015 vintage is celebrated for its balance and elegance:

• Appearance: Deep ruby hue with garnet reflections.

• Aroma: Aromas of ripe red fruits, such as cherry and raspberry, intertwined with subtle notes of truffle, mocha, and a hint of oak.

• Palate: Medium to full-bodied with silky tannins, offering flavors of red berries, spice, and earthy undertones. The wine exhibits freshness and a long, elegant finish.

• Drinking Window: Approachable now, with potential to age gracefully over the next 10–15 years.