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Croix de Labrie

The Winery

Croix de Labrie

The 5.9 hectare, Right Bank vineyard of Croix de Labrie is planted to 80% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon Sauvignon and 8% Cabernet Franc. The vines are old, averaging about 50 years of age. They also have some very old vines. Some of their Cabernet Sauvignon vines are over 100 years of age. New plantings in the vineyards are at a higher level of density at 6,500 vines per hectare. They also have a tiny parcel of vines placed close to the chateau planted to 10,900 vines per hectare.

20% of the wine from Chateau Croix de Labrie is made using micro-vinification techniques, meaning that the wine was vinified entirely in French oak barrels. The remaining grapes are vinified in stainless steel vats. Starting with the 2016 vintage, they began aging the wine on its lees for longer periods, adding more color and concentration. Malolactic fermentation takes place in 100% new, French oak barrels. The wine is aged in 100% new, French oak barrels for an average of 16 to 22 months before bottling.

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Tasting Notes

WA94
As most vintages of this small garagiste estate tend to be, the 2005 Croix de Labrie is truly sumptuous stuff. Made from 100% Merlot (only 300 cases produced), it possesses an inky/purple color to the rim as well as a nose that smells like blueberry and blackberry ice cream infused with floral, wood, and espresso scents. Superb intensity and purity as well as an exotic, ostentatious personality are impossible to resist. Not a classic claret, it is the antithesis of the aristocratic, noble Medocs, but what a ride it provides. Enjoy it over the next 10-15 years.

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