Suau Cotes de Bordeaux 2015

85% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. Hidden behind a row of 100-year-old oaks, Château Suau represents a great value in today's French wine market. It is located south of the village of Capian, 35 km from Bordeaux, on the highest point of the Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux appellation. The chateau features 66 hectares of vineyards, in one piece, surrounding farm buildings. Chateau Suau began as the hunting lodge of Jean-Louis de Nogaret de La Valette, Duke d’Épernon, one of the most powerful new magnates in French politics. This noble house experienced a complete restoration throughout the 17th century when the estate belonged to the Suau family (the Château continues to bear their name today), still cited in 1687 under Louis the 14th. The estate then belonged to Clement Gopp of Bordeaux, a wine merchant who was described as Lord of Suau in 1750. It continued to experience changes in ownership before being purchased by Monique Bonnet in 1986. Monique, along with her husband Tom Kenney, still manages the estate today. Chateau Suau began its conversion to organic farming in 2008. Since the 2014 vintage, all products are certified organic by Ecocert. Chateau Suau was one of the first vineyards in Bordeaux to begin its international EMS (environmental management system) certification. Their system integrates energy consumption, the sorting and recycling of waste, methods of pest control, cropping patterns, and the health and safety of employees, residents and consumers – all factors that complement their approach to organic agriculture. The wine is produced from vineyards that are located in the Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux appellation, spreading over 66 hectares. The vines are organically grown on gravel and clay soils that benefit from favorable south-south-east facing slopes and plateaux. The Cotes de Bordeaux is dark ruby in color, luscious and fleshy with juicy blackberry and currant aromas. Round, ample and well-balanced with a fresh finish.