Recougne | Chateau

Robert Parker at one time called Recougne the finest Bordeaux Superieur. It is an estate that has produced wine for over 400 years, and its name is said to have come from King Henri IV in the early 17th century, in "recognition" of the quality of its wine. The vineyard surrounds the Chateau and the winemaking facilities, and was classified under the Fronsac Appellation, which it straddles, many years ago. Merlot is best suited to the terroir and is the majority planting (75%), complemented by both Cabernet Sauvignon (15%) and Cabernet Franc (10%). Factors that contribute to the quality of the vineyard include: several parcels of very old vines of 50+ years, environmentally friendly viticultural techniques, minimal spraying, low yields through green harvesting, and excellent canopy management.

At harvest, the grapes are 100% destemmed and crushed before being placed in temperature controlled vats. Prior to fermentation, approximately 20% of the juice in each vat is siphoned off in order to increase the skin-to-juice ratio (this juice is then used to make rosé wine). Natural yeasts trigger fermentation and a twice daily regimen of pumping the juice over the skins begins remontage. The wine is racked every 3 months and therefore only needs a light filtration. Final blending and bottling takes place 18 months after harvest.

Available Wines