Château d'Arsac 2015 (Bordeaux) - Wine Review

Tonight's wine review is this lovely red wine from Margaux that came to the LCBO during the long weekend as part of the September 5 LCBO VINTAGES Release.

Château d'Arsac is regarded as one of the oldest wine estates of the Médoc region, on the left bank, with over 1,000 years of history. The property has changed hands many times over the years, but it wasn't until the 18th century that Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon vines were planted on the exceptional gravel and sandy soils at the estate. Unfortunately, these vines had to be uprooted at the turn of the 20th century due to phylloxera, and eventually the property was abandoned and unbelievably became a chicken coop!

In 1986, winemaker and visionary Philippe Raoux acquired Château d'Arsac and after 10 years of renovations and legal procedures began producing wine, with about half of the vineyard classified as AOC Margaux appellation, while the rest are under AOC Haut-Médoc. Philippe Raoux represents the 4th generation of a particularly dynamic family of wine growers and traders whose roots began in Algeria. In 1962, the Raoux family repatriated to France. It is interesting to note that the trading house founded by Philippe's grandfather was the first company selling wine by correspondence in Bordeaux.

Today, Château d'Arsac is a completely modernized winery after undergoing extensive renovations. Combining stainless steel, wood, glass and with the winery painted in electric blue, Château d'Arsac stands out visibly and is now regarded as one of the most original châteaux of the Médoc. Philippe also reconstructed 112 hectares of vineyards to revive the quality of the wine. The soils on the property are comprised of small gravel and sand which are mixed over a thin layer of clay and planted to just three varietals - Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sauvignon Blanc.

Tasting Note:

CHÂTEAU D'ARSAC 2015 - AC Margaux, Bordeaux, France (#14443) (XD) - $49.95
A blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon and 28% Merlot planted on sandy gravel soils. The medium-high intensity nose has lovely dried cherry, red currant, cassis, savoury, and earthy characters with touches of dried rose floral and new wood. It is full-bodied on the palate with nice cherry, cassis, red berry, earthy, and wood spice flavours supported by juicy acidity and ripe, textured tannins that have a touch of grip. Long, savoury-earthy finish with touches of dried rose florals. Very approachable now and will continue to drink well over the next 7-8 years. Score: 91 pts

Other wines from the Château d'Arsac portfolio can be ordered through their Agent - Connexion Oenophilia.