Château d'Arsac 2020

The balance and structure of an Exceptional Cru Bourgeois from Margaux

The property

Classified as an Exceptional Cru Bourgeois, the Château d’Arsac is one of the oldest crus in the Médoc, on the left bank of Bordeaux. Owned by Philippe Raoux since 1986, the property has undergone a bold and original renovation. In a decidedly contemporary spirit, Château d’Arsac stands out with its stainless steel-clad winery, a glass roof with raw materials, and its Klein blue color. The estate also hosts numerous art exhibitions in its Garden of Contemporary Art Sculptures.

The vineyard

The vineyard of Château d’Arsac extends over 53 hectares within the Margaux appellation. The vines, averaging 28 years old, are planted on deep gravel soils resting on brown soils and marl-limestone outcrops. The vineyard is managed using sustainable farming practices, with a zero-residue policy in the wines since 2016. The vine rows are grassed, and each vine is monitored at all times.

The vintage

The spring mildness allowed for an early and uniform bud break. While stormy episodes in early May caused damage to some plots, the warm and sunny conditions at the end of May favored a quick, uniform, and generous flowering. The summer was marked by a hot, very dry climate that slowed the vine's vegetative cycle and reduced yields by nearly 20%. A rainy episode in September revived the ripening and development of the vineyard. The harvested grapes are perfectly ripe and in excellent health.

Vinification and aging

Vinification is traditional, with gentle extraction in thermo-regulated stainless steel vats. Aging is carried out exclusively in barrels (40% new barrels, 40% one-wine barrels, 20% two-wine barrels).

Blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (72%) and Merlot (28%).

Characteristics and tasting advice for Château d’Arsac 2020

Tasting

Color 
Dark and deep, the color is a beautiful garnet red.

Nose
Intense, the nose combines floral fragrances (violet) and fruity (raspberry, blackcurrant) with aromas of white pepper as well as woody and brioche notes.

Palate
Precise and beautifully fresh, the palate seduces with its enveloping tannins combining power and finesse. Persistent, the finish is structured. This vintage is marked by the alliance of balance with controlled power.